Nashik was included also under Ashok's mighty empire.
Later, Nashik district became very prosperous during the era of the
Satavahana as it lay on the trade route to Broach (Gujarat). During
Mughal period, the city was named as Gulshanabad appreciating its
beauty. The old name was restored when Peshwas took over in 1751. By
1818, Nashik became an important town with two palaces, magnificent
buildings and beautiful gardens and vineyards. Nashik surrendered to the
British on April 19,1818. Nashik too was in great disturbance during the
freedom struggle of 1857. But it retained its peace after the struggle
ended in 1860.
Nashik Municipality was formed in 1864. Nashik was made a full-fledged
district with its present 13 talukas in 1869. Railway tracks were
constructed around that time. The city gained its popularity with the
construction of Central Jail. India Security Press and the Distillery,
which then existed for the English soldiers at Deolali. Then, artisans
skilled in making utensils and smiths excelling in silver and gold
ornaments were beginning to launch their trade, and Nashik grew to be a
flourishing commercial center.
As far as revolutionary activities during freedom struggle were
concerned, Nashik was always prominent as a centre. Great revolutionist,
Anant Kanhere fired at Mr. Jackson, the then Collector of Nashik, on the
night of 21st December 1909, while he was watching a play at Vijayanand
Theatre. Mr Jackson died on the spot, which resulted in arrests, trails
and sentences.
Mahatma Gandhi's non-cooperation movement found its share of forest
satyagrahas and underground activities here in Nashik as well. Dr.
Ambedkar has organized his temple entry movement for the abolition of
untouchability and mass satyagraha was organized in 1932. In 1950,
Session of India National Congress was held at Nashik at a place now
called Nehrunagar (between Nashik and Nashik Road).
Have a quick look at the history and origin of
Nashik city of Maharashtra.