HISTORICAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL PLACES OF RAJASTHAN

HISTORICAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL PLACES OF RAJASTHAN

RATHI REGION

The Rathi region refers to an area with less than 25 cm of rainfall annually. This is a semi-arid to arid region characterized by its dry climate and sparse vegetation. The low rainfall makes the region particularly suited for hardy crops and livestock, such as the Rathi breed of cow.

• Historical Background (Rathi/Ahirwat):
  • The Yadav dynasty historically ruled over this area, and their rule left an imprint on the region’s socio-political structure. The term “Rath” refers to areas ruled by the Yadavs.
  • This dynasty also held sway in the Alwar and Kotputli Tehsil of Jaipur. Alwar, a city known for its Bala Quila Fort and Sariska Tiger Reserve, was a major seat of power in the region.

• Rainfall: This region receives less than 25 cm of annual rainfall, classifying it as a dry, arid zone.
• Covered Districts:
  • Jaisalmer: Known for its desert landscape and historical significance as the location of the Jaisalmer Fort.
  • Bikaner: Renowned for its rich history, culture, and the famous Karni Mata Temple (home to thousands of sacred rats).
  • Barmer: A district marked by its desert terrain, cultural festivals, and folk music traditions.
• Rathi Breed: The Rathi region is also famous for the Rathi breed of cow, which is well adapted to the harsh climate. These cows are known for their high milk yield.
• Rathi/Ahirwat: The Yadav dynasty historically ruled this region, and the area was known as Rath.
• Covered Districts: Primarily Alwar and Kotputli Tehsil of Jaipur are covered within this historical area.

The Rathi region, largely a desert area, has long faced issues related to water scarcity and agricultural challenges due to its low rainfall. The resilience of its local cattle, particularly the Rathi breed, has played a significant role in the local economy by providing dairy products. Historically, the area under the influence of the Yadav dynasty shows a rich cultural heritage connected to the broader history of Rajasthan. The Alwar district, part of this region, is known for the Sariska Tiger Reserve and its contribution to wildlife preservation.

SHEKHAWATI REGION

• Historical Significance: This region was ruled by the Shekhawat dynasty and is known as Shekhawati. The region’s history is rich in trade, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, when Shekhawati was a hub for merchants and traders.

• Covered Districts:
  • Churu: Known for its large sand dunes and harsh desert climate. Churu is also famous for its fresco-adorned havelis, which reflect the rich architectural heritage of the Shekhawati region.
  • Sikar: The district boasts magnificent temples and forts, including the Harshnath Temple and Laxmangarh Fort.
  • Jhunjhunu: Famous for its architectural havelis and the Rani Sati Temple, this district is an integral part of Shekhawati’s cultural identity.
• Torawati: The catchment area of the Katli River, a small river that runs through this region, is referred to as Torawati.
• Geographical Coverage: The Shekhawati region primarily covers Sikar and Jhunjhunu districts, forming a significant historical and cultural part of Rajasthan. It is also known for its connection to prominent business families of India, with many of their ancestral roots tracing back to this region.

Shekhawati is often referred to as an open-air art gallery due to its intricate frescoes on the walls of havelis. These paintings narrate stories of gods, kings, and daily life. The Shekhawati region was strategically located on ancient trade routes, making it a prosperous center for merchants. However, due to desertification, water remains a scarce resource, affecting agriculture in the region. Today, Shekhawati is also known for tourism, with visitors coming to admire the artistic grandeur and heritage.

THALI REGION

• Description: The upland part of the desert in Rajasthan is known as the Thali region, encompassing desert areas that stretch across Churu and Bikaner districts.
• No Major Rivers: This region does not have any rivers, contributing to its arid conditions. Water is scarce, and people in this region often rely on traditional methods like baoris (stepwells) and rainwater harvesting for survival.
• Talli: The bottom areas near sand dunes are referred to as Talli. These low-lying areas can accumulate sand and are subject to frequent wind erosion.
• Main District: This region is mostly located in the Jaisalmer district, known for its vast desert expanses and iconic Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Golden Fort.

The Thali region is characterized by extreme weather conditions, with temperatures soaring above 45°C in the summer. Sand dunes, or barkhans, dominate the landscape. The sparse population in this area depends on livestock rearing and small-scale farming. Agriculture is largely limited to drought-resistant crops such as millet and pulses. This region is also known for its nomadic Raika (camel herders) who have adapted to the desert lifestyle over centuries.

MARU REGION

• Description: The western region of Rajasthan is known as the Maru region. The term “Maru” directly refers to desert in the local language.
• Geographical Spread: This region is mostly found in the Jodhpur division and is dominated by the Thar Desert.

The Maru region is home to Rajasthan’s desert landscape, including sand dunes and arid plains. The city of Jodhpur, also called the “Blue City,” lies in this region and is known for its architectural splendor, including the Mehrangarh Fort. This region has long been influenced by the desert climate, shaping its agriculture, architecture, and culture. Jodhpur also serves as a gateway to the Thar Desert, with camel safaris being a popular tourist activity.

BHORAT REGION

• Location: This region lies between the Kumbhalgarh Hills in Rajsamand district and the Gogunda Hills in Udaipur district.
• Geographical Features: It is a plateau region known for its rugged terrain and high altitude.
• Bhoma: A hilly and plateau area located between Udaipur and Dungarpur, known for its rich tribal culture and scenic beauty.

The Bhorat region is known for its elevated landscape and proximity to Rajasthan’s Aravalli Range, which influences its terrain. Historically, this region has played an essential role in the Mewar dynasty’s defense due to its strategic location. The Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the vicinity, is famous for its massive walls and historical significance. The region is also home to a vibrant tribal community with a rich cultural heritage.

MATSYA REGION

• Historical Significance: This region was historically known for the Matsya kingdom, with Alwar being the capital. The ancient capital was Bairath, which is today known as Virat Nagar.
• Matsya Union: During the process of Indian unification, the first phase of unification was referred to as the Matsya Union. It included the districts of Alwar, Bharatpur, Karoli, and Dholpur.
• Word Origin: The term Matsya Union was coined by K. M. Munshi, a notable freedom fighter and politician.

The Matsya region has significant historical relevance, particularly during the Mahabharata period, where it is believed that the Pandavas spent their Agyatvas (incognito exile) in Bairath (Virat Nagar). Alwar, with its rich cultural history, continues to be a prominent area in Rajasthan, famous for its palaces and the Sariska Tiger Reserve. The Matsya Festival is celebrated annually to honor the cultural and historical heritage of the region.

MAL/HADOTI REGION

• Description: This is the southern-eastern plateau region of Rajasthan, known as Hadoti and Mal.
• Covered Districts:
  • Kota: Famous for its coaching industry for competitive exams, Kota Doria saris, and its Chambal River gorge.
  • Bundi: Known for its architectural heritage, such as the Taragarh Fort and Bundi Palace.
  • Baran: Renowned for its lush green landscapes, Baran is an important agricultural region.
  • Jhalawar: This district is known for its rich history, temples, and natural beauty.
• Malwa Extension: The Malwa Plateau extends into Rajasthan, particularly into Pratapgarh and Jhalawar districts.

The Hadoti region derives its name from the Hada Rajput dynasty. The region is rich in natural resources, particularly limestone and sandstone, and the Chambal River plays a significant role in the agriculture and economy of the area. Kota is particularly important for its role in modern education, as it has become a national hub for engineering and medical entrance exam preparation. Bundi’s history and architecture, including its stepwells (baoris) and palaces, attract tourists worldwide.

BEED REGION

• Geography: This is a grassland area known as Beed.
• Location: It is mostly found in the Jhunjhunu district of the Shekhawati region.

The Beed region of Jhunjhunu is known for its open grasslands, which support local wildlife and are used for grazing by cattle. These grasslands are vital for maintaining biodiversity and supporting the local economy through pastoral activities. Jhunjhunu itself is known for its rich heritage of havelis and temples, making it a part of Rajasthan’s cultural circuit.

BEEHAD REGION

• Geographical Feature: This region is characterized by a badland topography formed due to the action of rivers. The land is dissected by deep ravines and is often referred to as Beehad.
• Ravines: These ravines are the result of erosion caused by rivers cutting through soft soil over centuries.
• Covered Districts:
  • Karauli
  • Dholpur
  • Sawai Madhopur

The Beehad region, particularly in areas like Dholpur, is notorious for its rugged terrain, which historically served as a hideout for dacoits. The deep ravines make the land unsuitable for farming and human habitation. However, efforts have been made to reclaim and use these lands through soil conservation techniques. Additionally, the Chambal River flows through this region, contributing to its erosion but also supporting a rich ecosystem, including the critically endangered gharial crocodile.

VAGAD REGION

• Location: This region is situated in the southern part of Rajasthan.
• Covered Districts:
  • Banswara: Known as the City of Hundred Islands, as the Mahi River creates numerous islands in this area. Banswara has a significant tribal population, including Bhils.
  • Dungarpur: Known for its rich history and Juna Mahal, the district is famous for its scenic beauty and tribal culture.
  • Pratapgarh: Famous for its traditional Thewa jewelry, Pratapgarh is also known for its rich natural landscape.

The Vagad region, known for its dense tribal population, particularly the Bhil community, has a unique cultural identity. The area is lush and fertile compared to the arid regions of Rajasthan due to its proximity to rivers such as the Mahi. Agriculture and forestry are primary sources of livelihood. The Banswara Dam plays a significant role in irrigating the land, and the region is also known for its contributions to tribal art and culture.

BANGAR REGION

• Description: The Bangar region refers to an ancient alluvial soil area located on the western side of the Aravalli Range.
• Covered Districts:
  • Pali
  • Nagaur
  • Sikar
  • Jhunjhunu

The Bangar region is an agriculturally fertile area, thanks to the presence of alluvial soil, which is beneficial for crop cultivation. Historically, this region was important for agriculture, and today it continues to be a significant agricultural zone in Rajasthan, producing crops such as millets, wheat, and mustard. The proximity to the Aravalli Range provides natural protection against sandstorms and contributes to the region’s relative fertility compared to other parts of Rajasthan.

BRAJNAGAR REGION

• Historical Name: The ancient name of Jhalarapatan is Brajnagar.

Expansion: Jhalarapatan is often referred to as the City of Bells due to its many temples. Located near Jhalawar, the city is an important pilgrimage site and holds historical significance. It was founded by Jhala Zalim Singh and has a distinct layout, with streets designed in a grid pattern. The area is known for its temple architecture, particularly the Sun Temple and the Chandramouli Mahadev Temple.

BRIJNAGAR REGION

• Location: This refers to the area of Bharatpur attached to Uttar Pradesh.

Bharatpur, part of the Brijnagar region, is known for the Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a haven for migratory birds. The region is also historically significant due to the Bharatpur State, ruled by the Jats, which played a crucial role during the Mughal and British eras. The city of Bharatpur is well known for its Lohagarh Fort, which withstood several attacks by the British.

MARWAR REGION

• Description: The western part of Rajasthan is known as Marwar.
• Covered Districts:
  • Jodhpur
  • Jaisalmer
  • Jalore
  • Pali
  • Sirohi
  • Barmer
• Merwara: A region mainly in Ajmer and part of Rajsamand is known as Merwara.
• Mewar: The Guhil Dynasty ruled the Mewar region, also known as Pragwat/Medpat.
  • Covered Districts: Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Rajsamand, and Bhilwara.

Marwar, or the Land of Death, derives its name from its arid climate and harsh desert conditions. The region is the largest in Rajasthan and includes the historic city of Jodhpur, known as the Blue City. Jodhpur was a major trade center during the British period. Jaisalmer, part of Marwar, is famous for its golden Jaisalmer Fort, while Barmer is known for its desert culture and Barmer Festival. The Mewar region, home to the legendary Maharana Pratap, is known for its valiant history, especially in Chittorgarh, where the Rajputs fiercely resisted invasions. Udaipur, the capital of Mewar, is known for its lakes and palaces, and remains one of India’s most popular tourist destinations.

YAUDHEYA REGION

• Historical Importance: The northern part of Rajasthan was known as Yaudheya during historical times.
• Covered Districts:
  • Sri Ganganagar
  • Hanumangarh

The Yaudheyas were an ancient warrior tribe that existed in the Indus Valley region. This area today includes Sri Ganganagar, known as the food basket of Rajasthan due to its fertile soil and extensive irrigation from the Indira Gandhi Canal. Hanumangarh, with its rich history and proximity to the Ghaggar River, has archaeological sites linking it to the Indus Valley Civilization. Both districts play a key role in the state’s agriculture.

JANGAL REGION

• Location: The region covering Bikaner and the northern part of Jodhpur is known as Jangal.
• Vegetation: The region is characterized by thorny vegetation, which is typical of desert scrubland.

The Jangal region is part of the Thar Desert and is characterized by its harsh climate and sparse population. Bikaner, part of the Jangal region, is famous for its Bikaner Camel Corps and Junagarh Fort. Due to the arid conditions, the primary vegetation includes acacia and khejri trees, which are well-adapted to the desert environment.

AHICHHATRAGARH REGION

• Historical Importance: This region refers to the ancient name of the Nagore district.
• Capital: The capital was Spadlaksh and Jangal.

Nagore is historically significant for its Ahichhatragarh Fort, also known as Nagaur Fort, a large fortress with beautiful palaces and water systems. It played a vital role in the defense strategies of the region during medieval times.

SAPADALAKSHA REGION

• Ruling Dynasty: The region was ruled by the Chauhan Dynasty and was known as Sapadalaksha.
• Capitals:
  • First Capital: Ahichhatragarh
  • Second Capital: Shakambhari

The Chauhan Dynasty is one of the most famous ruling dynasties of Rajasthan, with Prithviraj Chauhan being one of its prominent kings. The Shakambhari region is known for its temples, particularly the Shakambhari Mata Temple.

DHUNDHAD REGION

• Geographical Feature: This region is known for the Dhundh River, after which it is named.
• Covered Districts:
  • Jaipur
  • Tonk
  • Dausa

The Dhundhad region is named after the Dhundh River, which flows through the area. Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is located in this region and is famously known as the Pink City. Jaipur is a major tourist destination due to its palaces, forts, and vibrant culture.

KURU REGION/PRADESH

• Location: The northern part of Alwar district is known as the Kuru region.

Alwar, part of the Kuru region, has a rich history connected to the Mahabharata period, where it is believed that the Pandavas spent time in this area. Alwar is known for its Bala Quila Fort and the Sariska Tiger Reserve.

SHURSEN REGION

• Historical Significance: The eastern part of Rajasthan was historically known as the Shursen region.
• Covered Districts:
  • Bharatpur
  • Karoli
  • Dholpur
• Capital: The capital of this region during ancient times was Mathura.

Shursen is a historically significant region, and Mathura, its capital, is revered in Hindu tradition as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. The region of Bharatpur, part of this ancient territory, was home to the Jat rulers, who played a pivotal role during the Mughal and British eras. The Lohagarh Fort of Bharatpur is a significant military architecture, symbolizing the region’s resistance to external invasions. Dholpur is famous for its red sandstone quarries, widely used in Mughal architecture, including the Red Fort in Delhi.

HAYHAY REGION

• Location: This region covers the districts of Bundi and Kota.
• Ruling Dynasty: The region was ruled by the Chauhan dynasty, particularly the Hada Chauhans.

The Hada Chauhan dynasty ruled over Bundi and Kota, which were historically important princely states. Bundi is famous for its stepwells (baoris) and Taragarh Fort, one of the most imposing forts in Rajasthan. Kota, on the other hand, is well known for its coaching industry for competitive exams and Kota Doria saris. The region has a rich cultural heritage, with its palaces, forts, and temples attracting tourists from all over the world.

CHANDRAWATI REGION

• Historical Significance: The ancient name of Sirohi was Chandrawati.
• Key Features: Anti-earthquake buildings are found in this region, showcasing ancient architectural knowledge.

Sirohi is located in the southwestern part of Rajasthan and is known for its Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan. Chandrawati was an ancient city that thrived during the Guhil Dynasty. The presence of anti-earthquake buildings indicates the advanced architectural techniques of the time. Mount Abu is also famous for the Dilwara Temples, which are considered some of the most beautiful Jain temples in the world, showcasing intricate marble carvings.

JABALIPUR REGION

• Historical Significance: This region, known as the land of Jabal Rishi, is presently known as Jalore.
• Vegetation: The region is primarily known for its jal trees.

Jalore, also called the Granite City, is famous for its Jalore Fort, one of the most impregnable forts in Rajasthan. The jal trees (Salvadora persica), commonly found in the region, are used for their twigs, which serve as natural toothbrushes in rural areas. Jalore has a rich history and was an important seat of the Chauhan Dynasty.

MALANI REGION

• Historical Significance: The ancient name of the Barmer district is Malani.
• Cultural Significance: The region is notable as the land of Mallinath, a revered saint.

Barmer is part of the Thar Desert and is known for its folk music, dance, and the Mallinath Fair, one of the largest cattle fairs in Rajasthan. The region is also rich in handicrafts like wood carvings, pottery, and embroidered cloth. Mallinath, after whom the region is named, is a figure of veneration in Rajasthan, and his fair attracts thousands of pilgrims and traders every year.

MAND REGION

• Location: The Jaisalmer district is also referred to as Mand because of its cultural significance in Mand singing.
• Surrounding Area: The surrounding area of Mand is known as Vall.

Mand refers to a traditional style of Rajasthani folk music, particularly popular in the Jaisalmer region. Jaisalmer, often called the Golden City, is famous for its desert culture, camel safaris, and the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, which is made of golden sandstone. The Mand singing tradition is an integral part of Rajasthani culture, especially in folk festivals and weddings.

MEWAT REGION

• Location: The region includes Alwar and Bharatpur districts, collectively known as Mewat.
• Cultural Significance: The region is named Mewat because the Mev caste is predominantly found here.

Mewat is an ethnocultural region that spans parts of Alwar and Bharatpur in Rajasthan and extends into Haryana. The Mev community, which is largely Muslim, has historically played a crucial role in shaping the cultural identity of the region. Alwar is known for its palaces, like the City Palace, and Bala Quila, a historic fort. Bharatpur is renowned for its Keoladeo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

MEMAL REGION

• Geographical Feature: This is a hilly region located between Dungarpur and Banswara districts.

The Memal region is part of the hilly areas of southern Rajasthan. It is rich in tribal culture, with a significant population of Bhils, who have preserved their traditional ways of life, including farming, hunting, and fishing. The region is also known for its scenic beauty, with lush green hills and abundant wildlife.

KATHAL REGION

• Location: The Pratapgarh district is referred to as Kathal.
• Geographical Feature: The region is located on the banks of the Mahi River.

Pratapgarh, a relatively new district in Rajasthan, is known for its Thewa jewelry, a unique art form of gold embossed work on glass. The Mahi River, which flows through the region, provides water for irrigation and supports the local economy. Kathal, being located on the banks of this river, benefits from fertile soil, making it a productive agricultural zone.