Kanker

Kanker is a historically important town and former princely state region in southern Chhattisgarh, known for its forested landscape, strong tribal heritage, and a long tradition of local kingship. Older local tradition links the early beginnings of the Kanker region to the early centuries CE (often associated with the Satavahana period), suggesting that organised rule and settlement existed here quite early—though the earliest phases remain partly based on tradition rather than continuous records.

Clearer historical visibility emerges in the medieval era. Sources on the princely state note that the Kanker ruling line (often described as a “Chandra” lineage in local tradition) was established by the early 15th century, and Kanker developed as a small but stable kingdom in the broader forest-and-hill belt north of Bastar. The geography mattered: thick forests (including teak and sal) and hilly terrain shaped a society where agrarian plains, forest produce, and tribal communities—especially Gonds—were central to the economy and culture.

In the 18th century, Kanker’s political fortunes were tied to larger powers in central India. It entered tributary relationships connected to regional Chhattisgarhi kingdoms and then came under Maratha influence. Under the Marathas (Nagpur/Bhonsle control), Kanker’s rulers were expected to support the overlord with military assistance when required. In 1809, the state was occupied by the Marathas of Nagpur and the ruler was displaced for a period.

After the British became dominant in the region, the Kanker ruler was restored in 1818 (with tribute arrangements that were later eased). Under the British Raj, Kanker was counted among the feudatory/princely states linked with the Chhattisgarh States Agency system—retaining internal administration under its raja while acknowledging British paramountcy. Over time, the state also saw gradual administrative changes and development works typical of many smaller princely states (schools, temples, basic civic institutions).

At India’s independence, the last ruler, Bhanu Pratap Deo, signed the Instrument of Accession on 15 August 1947, integrating Kanker into the Indian Union. In modern times, Kanker remains known for its predominantly tribal cultural fabric, forest economy, and its legacy as a former princely state capital.