Vindhyas

The Vindhya Range is a complex, discontinuous chain of mountains and hills in central India. It runs roughly east-west across the northern part of the peninsula, separating the Indo-Gangetic Plain to the north from the Deccan Plateau to the south. The Vindhyas are geologically older than the Himalayas and are characterized by their ancient, eroded peaks, often appearing as low hills and plateaus.

Historically, the Vindhya Range has served as a significant cultural and geographical boundary. It has been considered the traditional dividing line between northern India (Aryavarta) and southern India (Dakshinapatha) in ancient texts. The range is drained by several major rivers, including the Narmada and Tapti, which flow westward into the Arabian Sea, and the Son River, which flows eastward into the Ganges.

The Vindhyas are rich in mineral resources, particularly various types of building stones like sandstone and limestone, as well as diamond deposits. The region is home to diverse flora and fauna, with forests covering many of its slopes. Several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are located within the Vindhya mountain system, protecting its natural heritage. The range has a significant cultural and religious importance, with numerous ancient temples and pilgrimage sites scattered throughout its expanse.