Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is one of India’s most historically and religiously significant cities. Its history stretches back to ancient times, with layers of influence from various empires and eras. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Ancient Period (Prayag):

• Mythological Origins: In Hindu mythology, the city was known as “Prayag” (meaning “confluence”). It’s revered as the site where Brahma, the creator god, performed the first yajna (sacrifice) after the creation of the universe.
• Vedic and Epic Period: References to Prayag can be found in ancient Hindu texts like the Rigveda and the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. In the Ramayana, it’s mentioned that Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana stayed at the hermitage of Sage Bharadwaj in Prayag during their exile.
• Mauryan and Gupta Empires: During the Mauryan and Gupta periods (roughly 4th century BCE to 6th century CE), Prayag was an important center. The famous Ashoka Pillar, now located within the Allahabad Fort, dates back to this era.
• Chinese Traveler Hiuen Tsang: In the 7th century CE, the Chinese Buddhist monk Hiuen Tsang visited Prayag and described it as a flourishing city with many temples and monasteries.

Medieval Period:

• Delhi Sultanate: In the late 12th century, Prayag came under the control of the Delhi Sultanate.
• Mughal Empire (Allahabad): A major turning point in the city’s history came during the Mughal era. In 1575, Emperor Akbar visited Prayag and, impressed by its strategic location at the confluence of the rivers, ordered the construction of a fort. In 1583, he founded a new city adjacent to the fort and named it “Allahabad” (meaning “Abode of God”).
• Provincial Capital: Allahabad became an important provincial capital during the Mughal Empire. It even served as the headquarters of Prince Salim (later Emperor Jahangir) for a few years.

British Colonial Period (Allahabad):

• British Control: In 1801, the Nawab of Awadh ceded Allahabad to the British East India Company.
• Military Base and Administrative Center: The British used the Allahabad Fort as a military base. The city also became an important administrative center.
• 1857 Revolt: Allahabad played a significant role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 against British rule.
• Capital of the United Provinces: From 1904 to 1949, Allahabad served as the capital of the United Provinces (which later became Uttar Pradesh).
• Important Figures and Institutions: Allahabad was home to prominent figures of the Indian independence movement, including the Nehru family. Institutions like the Allahabad High Court and Allahabad University were established during this period.

Post-Independence Era (Prayagraj):

• Renaming to Prayagraj: In 2018, the city was officially renamed Prayagraj, restoring its ancient name.
• Religious and Cultural Significance: Prayagraj continues to be a major pilgrimage center for Hindus, especially for the Kumbh Mela, which is held here every 12 years.
• Modern City: Today, Prayagraj is a bustling city with a mix of historical sites, religious significance, and modern developments.

In summary, Prayagraj has a rich and layered history spanning millennia, from its mythological origins as Prayag to its role as a Mughal city, a British administrative center, and a key site in India’s independence struggle. Today, it stands as a testament to its enduring religious and cultural significance.