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Punjab GK

October 27, 2025
: Site of the  Indus Valley Civilization  (c. 3000 BCE). The epic battle of the Mahabharata was fought in this region. King Porus famously fought Alexander the Great at the Battle of the Hydaspes in 326 BCE.

  • Medieval & Sikh Rule : Came under Muslim rule around 1000 CE, was part of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. The  Sikh Empire , founded by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, ruled from 1799 until 1849.

  • Colonial Period & Independence : Annexed by the British East India Company in 1849. The Punjab province was partitioned during the independence of India in 1947, leading to large-scale migration.

  • Punjabi Suba Movement : The state was reorganised on a linguistic basis in 1966, leading to the creation of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh from its former territory, and the present-day Punjabi-speaking state of Punjab was formed.

    • Economy

    Punjab is a major agricultural state and a key contributor to India's food grain supply. The state's nominal GDP is estimated at  $104.86 billion (2025-26) .

    • Agriculture : Known as India's "breadbasket"; contributed to the Green Revolution. Major crops include wheat, rice, and cotton.

    • Industry : Has over 48,000 industrial units. Major industries include textiles, sports goods, surgical instruments, and light engineering.

    • Economic Challenges : While once a leader in GDP per capita, Punjab has experienced slower growth compared to other Indian states in recent decades.

    Culture and Traditions

    Punjabi culture is known for its vibrancy, warmth, and rich traditions.

    • Music and Dance :  Bhangra  (a harvest dance performed by men) and  Giddha  (performed by women) are world-famous. Folk music and Sufi music are also integral to the culture.

    • Cuisine : Known for robust and flavorful dishes. Staples include  Sarson ka Saag  and  Makki di Roti ,  Butter Chicken ,  Dal Makhani , and  Lassi .

    • Festivals and Weddings : Punjabi weddings are elaborate, multi-day affairs with pre-wedding rituals like  Mehndi  and  Sangeet . Major festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

    • Traditional Attire : Men traditionally wear  Kurta-Pyjama  with a  Turban . Women traditionally wear the  Salwar Kameez , often with intricate embroidery like  Phulkari .

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