HISTORY OF BIKANER

The region now known as Bikaner was historically referred to as Jangaldesh and Ratighati. The capital of this region was called Ahichhatrapur. These names reflect the area’s earlier identity before the establishment of the kingdom by the Rathores.

RAO BIKA (1465-1504 AD)

Conquest and Establishment: In 1465 AD, Rao Bika, the son of Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, decided to establish his own territory after a dispute with his father. With the support of his uncle, Kandhal, and his younger brother, Beeda, as well as the blessings of Karni Mata, he conquered the Bikaner region. Karni Mata, considered a divine figure, is revered as the tutelary goddess of the Rathores of Bikaner and played a spiritual role in Bika’s conquests.

Proclamation as King: In 1472 AD, at Kodamdesar, Bika was formally declared as the ruler. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the region, with Bika taking the lead in establishing a stronghold.

Foundation of Bikaner: In 1488 AD, Bika laid the foundations of the city of Bikaner. The day of Akha Teej (Akshaya Tritiya) is celebrated as the “Foundation Day” of Bikaner, symbolizing prosperity and growth. On this auspicious day, the tradition of kite flying is observed in Bikaner, marking the historical significance of the city’s establishment.

Conflict with Jodhpur: Bika engaged in a confrontation with Rao Suja of Jodhpur. However, a peace settlement was mediated by Jasmaade, the queen of Rao Jodha and Suja’s mother. As part of the compromise, Bika was given royal symbols, which included:

• A statue of Naganechi Mata (a revered deity among the Rathores).
• A statue of Lakshminath Ji.
• The dagger of Hadbuji, symbolizing royal authority.

Construction Initiatives by Rao Bika

• Bhairav Temple at Kodamdesar: Rao Bika constructed the Bhairav temple at Kodamdesar. The idol for this temple was brought by him from Mandore, a significant site connected to the Rathore lineage.
• Temple of Naganechi Mata in Bikaner: Bika also built a temple dedicated to Naganechi Mata in Bikaner, which features a striking statue of the goddess with 18 arms, reflecting her divine power.

RAO LUNAKARAN (1505-1526 AD)

Rise to Power: Rao Lunakaran, the successor of Bika, came to power with the blessings of the saint Jasnath Ji, a revered spiritual figure in the region.

Military Achievements

• He defeated Rawal Jaitsi of Jaisalmer, solidifying Bikaner’s regional influence.
• In 1513 AD, he emerged victorious against Muhammad Khan of Nagaur, which further strengthened Bikaner’s strategic position in Rajasthan.

Battle of Dhosi (1526 AD): Lunakaran met his end in 1526 AD during the Battle of Dhosi while fighting against Abimira, the Nawab of Narnaul. This battle marked a significant conflict in Bikaner’s history, showing the struggles of the region against neighboring forces.

Historical Legacy: Lunakaran is remembered for his valor and strength. Historian Bithu Souza referred to him as the “Karna of Kalyug,” likening him to the legendary hero of the Mahabharata. Another writer, Jaya Som, also made similar comparisons, highlighting Lunakaran’s bravery.

Lake Lunkaransar: It is believed that Lunakaran was responsible for the construction of Lake Lunkaransar, which continues to hold significance in the region.

RAO JAITASI (1526-1541 AD)

Support to Rana Sanga: In 1527 AD, Rao Jaitasi supported Rana Sanga of Mewar by sending his son, Kalyanmal, to aid in the Battle of Khanwa. This battle was a significant event in Indian history, where Rana Sanga fought against Babur, marking the onset of Mughal power in India.

Battle of Ratighati (1534 AD): Rao Jaitasi defeated Kamran, the brother of Mughal emperor Humayun, in the Battle of Ratighati. This victory is documented in the book Rao Jaitasi Ro Chand by Bithu Souza. Before this conflict, Kamran had captured Bhatner (present-day Hanumangarh), indicating his ambitions in the region.

Battle of Paheba (1541 AD): The battle of Paheba in 1541 AD was fought between Rao Jaitasi and Rao Maldev of Jodhpur. Jaitasi was martyred during this battle. In response to Maldev’s invasion, Jaitasi sought support from Sher Shah Suri by sending his minister Nagaraja to the Afghan ruler, highlighting the alliances and conflicts of the time.

RAO KALYANMAL (1541-1574 AD)

Battle of Khanwa: Even before becoming the ruler, Kalyanmal led Bikaner’s troops in 1527 AD during the Battle of Khanwa, assisting Rana Sanga against the Mughals.

Support to Sher Shah Suri (1544 AD): In 1544 AD, Kalyanmal allied with Sher Shah Suri during the Battle of Giri Sumail. After the battle, Kalyanmal took control over Bikaner, navigating the complex political dynamics of the era.

Acceptance of Mughal Authority (1570 AD): In 1570 AD, Rao Kalyanmal attended the Nagaur Durbar of Akbar, where he accepted Mughal subjugation. This event marked a turning point as Bikaner began aligning with the Mughal Empire. Kalyanmal became the first ruler of Bikaner to formally acknowledge Mughal supremacy, reflecting the political realities of the time.

Participation of Yuvraj Rai Singh and Prithviraj Rathore: Alongside Kalyanmal, his relatives Yuvraj Rai Singh and Prithviraj Rathore also participated in the Nagaur Durbar, and they later accompanied Akbar. This connection with the Mughals helped in establishing a stable relationship between Bikaner and the imperial power.

MAHARAJA RAI SINGH (1574-1612 AD)

Role in the Mughal Empire

• Administrator of Jodhpur (1572-1574 AD): Before becoming the ruler of Bikaner, Maharaja Rai Singh served as the Administrator of Jodhpur under Emperor Akbar. This appointment highlighted his administrative skills and strategic importance in the Mughal Empire’s regional governance.
• Mansabdar under Akbar and Jahangir: Rai Singh held the title of Mansabdar, a prestigious military rank in the Mughal administration. Akbar initially appointed him with a mansab of 4000, reflecting his significant stature. Later, Jahangir, recognizing Rai Singh’s loyalty and military expertise, increased his mansab to 5000, indicating a high level of trust and responsibility within the Mughal hierarchy.

Military Achievements and Campaigns

• Battle of Katauli: Rai Singh played a crucial role in the Mughal campaigns by defeating Ibrahim Mirza in the Battle of Katauli. His actions in this battle were part of his broader support to Akbar during the suppression of the Mirza rebellion in Gujarat. In these conflicts, he also defeated and killed Husain Mirza, a significant opposition figure, showcasing his military prowess.
• Campaign against Chandrasen: In October 1574 AD, Akbar tasked Rai Singh with leading a campaign against Chandrasen, a ruler resisting Mughal expansion. Rai Singh succeeded in capturing Sojat from Kalla Rathore, who was the son of Chandrasen’s brother Rama. However, Rai Singh could not capture Sewana, a fort held firmly by the Patta Rathores. The struggle over Sewana was eventually concluded in 1576 AD when Shahbaz Khan captured the fort, further consolidating Mughal control in the region.
• Subjugation of Regional Leaders: Rai Singh also succeeded in bringing local chieftains like Surti of Sirohi and Taj Khan of Jalore under Mughal subordination. These efforts contributed to expanding Mughal influence over Rajasthan, demonstrating Rai Singh’s effectiveness in diplomacy and military strategy.

Gifts and Responsibilities by the Mughal Empire

• Gift of 51 Parganas (1577 AD): As a reward for his loyalty and service, Akbar gifted 51 parganas (administrative districts) to Rai Singh in 1577 AD. This gesture not only strengthened Rai Singh’s position but also highlighted the trust the Mughal emperor placed in his abilities.
• Responsibility for Agra During Khusro’s Rebellion: When Khusro, the eldest son of Jahangir, rebelled against his father, Jahangir entrusted Rai Singh with the responsibility of safeguarding Agra, the Mughal capital. This strategic assignment demonstrated the emperor’s confidence in Rai Singh’s ability to maintain order during turbulent times.

Architectural Contributions

• Construction of Junagadh Fort (1589-1594 AD): Under Rai Singh’s rule, the Junagadh Fort in Bikaner was constructed between 1589 and 1594 AD. The fort was built under the supervision of Karmachand and became a symbol of the architectural and cultural heritage of Bikaner. Within the fort, the Rai Singh Prasasti, an inscription composed by the Jain scholar Jayita, commemorates Rai Singh’s achievements. The fort’s entrance, known as Surajpol, features statues of Jaimal and Patta, renowned Rajput warriors known for their valor during the Siege of Chittorgarh.

Cultural Legacy and Scholarship

• Comparison to Karna: Maharaja Rai Singh was lauded for his valor and sense of duty. The scholar Munshi Deviprasad compared Rai Singh to Karna from the Mahabharata, calling him the “Karna of Rajputana.” This comparison draws attention to Rai Singh’s qualities of generosity, martial prowess, and loyalty, echoing the legendary character of Karna.
• Literary Contributions: Rai Singh himself was a patron of literature and scholarship, and he authored several works, showcasing his intellectual inclination. His contributions include:
  • Raisingh Mahautsav: A work that might have detailed the cultural and celebratory aspects of his reign.
  • Vaidik Vanshavali: A genealogical record that connects the royal lineage to Vedic traditions, emphasizing the divine roots of the Rathore dynasty.
  • Jyotish Ratnamala: A text focused on astrology, reflecting Rai Singh’s interest in traditional sciences and celestial studies.
  • Bal Bodhini: A commentary on astrological texts, aimed at educating and interpreting astrological concepts, further underlining his scholarly interests.

Court Scholars and Intellectual Contributions

• Patronage of Scholars: Rai Singh’s court was known for its intellectual vibrancy. Among the scholars was Jaya Som, who authored Karma-Chand-Vanshottarkirn-Kamkavayam. In this work, Rai Singh is referred to as Rajendra (meaning ‘King of Kings’), and his ancestor Rao Lunkaran is also compared to Karna, emphasizing the enduring legacy of the Rathore rulers as brave and noble leaders.

PRITHVIRAJ RATHORE

Prithviraj Rathore was the younger brother of Raisingh, the ruler of Bikaner. His close association with the Mughal court made him a significant figure in the cultural and political landscape of the time. He resided at Akbar’s court, where he held a respected position, reflecting the importance of the Rathores in the Mughal administration.

Role in Akbar’s Court

Grant of Gagaron: As a mark of favor and recognition, Akbar granted Prithviraj Gagaron, a fort located in present-day Rajasthan. This gesture underscored the trust and esteem that Akbar had for him.

Literary Contributions 

Prithviraj Rathore was not only a skilled warrior but also a prolific writer and poet. His works in Dingle (a dialect of Northern Rajasthani) were influential in enriching the literary heritage of the region.

1. Veli Krishna Rukmani Ri:
   • This poem, written in Dingle, is a celebrated work of Prithviraj Rathore. It narrates the story of the divine love between Lord Krishna and Rukmani.
   • The literary significance of this work is highlighted by Dursa Adha, a contemporary scholar, who described it as the “5th Veda” and the “19th Purana,” signifying its spiritual and cultural depth.
   • According to James Tod, a British officer and historian, the work possesses a metaphorical force akin to an army of 10,000 horses, emphasizing the power and vigor of the poetry.
2. Other Works:
   • Ganga Laheri: A poetic work that showcases Prithviraj’s mastery of language and expression.
   • Dasharathavrauta: Another literary contribution, reflecting themes from Rajputana traditions.
   • Dasham Bhagwat Ra Duha: This piece includes devotional verses, demonstrating Prithviraj’s versatility in both religious and secular themes.

Legacy and Recognition

• Prithviraj’s contributions to Dingle literature earned him the title of the “Horace of Dingle,” as described by L. P. Tessitori, an Italian scholar from Udine. Tessitori, known for his research on Rajasthani culture, admired Prithviraj’s poetic talent and the depth of his writings.
• Colonel James Tod, a prominent historian of Rajasthan, wrote highly of Prithviraj, calling him “the supreme valiant man of his time.” Tod compared him to the “Tubedar princes of the West,” emphasizing his ability to excel in both poetry and warfare. Prithviraj’s dual skills as a poet and a warrior made him a distinguished figure in Rajputana’s history.

Academic Contributions

• Prithviraj also delved into the study and critique of literary works, including Veli Krishna Rukmani Ri and Rao Jaitasi Ro Chand. His critical analysis of these texts contributed to the understanding of Rajputana’s literary traditions.
• He authored two notable works:
  • Bardic and Historical Survey of Rajputana: A survey of the bardic traditions and history of Rajasthan.
  • Grammar of Western Rajasthan: A scholarly text that provided insights into the linguistic nuances of Western Rajasthan.

Commemoration

• Prithviraj Rathore passed away in 1919 AD in Bikaner, where his umbrella (a traditional memorial structure) stands as a tribute to his legacy.
• Since 1982, an annual festival has been organized in his memory, celebrating his literary and cultural contributions. Additionally, a chamber in the Bikaner Archives is dedicated to him, ensuring the preservation of his works and legacy.

KARNA SINGH (1631-1669 AD)

Military Achievements

• Battle of Matire ki Raad (1644 AD): In 1644 AD, Karna Singh displayed his military strength by defeating Amar Singh of Nagaur in the Battle of Matire ki Raad. This victory was significant in consolidating Bikaner’s power and influence in the region, demonstrating Karna Singh’s strategic acumen.
• Title of “Jangaldhar Badshah”: During Aurangzeb’s Attock campaign, the other rulers of Rajasthan bestowed the title of “Jangaldhar Badshah” upon Karna Singh. This title, which means “King of the Jungle Kingdom,” was a testament to his leadership and prominence among the Rajput rulers. The title is mentioned in the Rajasthani translation of the Sanskrit treatise Shukasaptati by Chintamani Bhatt, commissioned by Anoop Singh, Karna Singh’s son. The title continued to be used by subsequent rulers of Bikaner, becoming a symbol of their authority.

Literary Contributions

Karna Singh was also a patron of literature and took an active interest in intellectual pursuits. He authored a work called Sahitya Kalpadrum, a literary treatise written with the collaboration of other scholars, which contributed to the rich tradition of Rajasthani literature during his time.

Court Scholars

During his reign, Karna Singh fostered a vibrant court of scholars, including:

• Gangadhar Maithil, who authored two significant works:
  • Karna Bhushan: A tribute to Karna Singh, celebrating his achievements and virtues.
  • Kavya Dakini: A literary work that reflects the poetic culture of the court.
• Hosik Bhatt, who contributed through works like:
  • Karnavantas: A text that further enriched the literary legacy of Karna Singh’s court.

ANOOP SINGH (1669–1698 AD)

Military Achievements and Mughal Relations

• Campaigns in South India: Maharaja Anoop Singh of Bikaner earned a reputation as a skilled military leader through his successful campaigns in South India during the reign of Aurangzeb. His victories in these campaigns were significant in expanding the influence of the Mughal Empire, and in recognition of his contributions, Aurangzeb bestowed upon him the prestigious title of “Mahi Maratib”. This title, which translates to “Fish of Honor,” symbolized high distinction and was traditionally granted to valorous leaders. The honor was later also awarded to other Bikaner rulers like Maharaja Gaj Singh and Ratna Singh by successive Mughal emperors, reflecting the close ties between the Bikaner rulers and the Mughal court.

Religious Contributions

• Temple of 33 Crore Gods and Goddesses: Anoop Singh played a significant role in preserving Hindu religious heritage during his campaigns. He collected the idols of Hindu gods and goddesses from South India, many of which might have been at risk of being desecrated during the period’s conflicts. These idols were then installed in the Temple of 33 Crore Gods and Goddesses in Bikaner. This temple is named for its dedication to the many deities of Hinduism, symbolizing the preservation and celebration of diverse divine forms. Among these is a unique statue of Heramb Ganapati, which depicts Ganapati (Lord Ganesha) riding a lion—a rare and distinctive representation that underscores the cultural and spiritual importance of this collection.
• Religious Significance in Mandore: While Anoop Singh established this temple in Bikaner, a similar effort was seen in Mandore, where Abhay Singh built a temple dedicated to 33 crore gods and goddesses. This reflects a broader effort among Rajput rulers to safeguard and promote Hindu religious practices and iconography during an era of significant cultural and political changes.

Establishment of the Anoop Sanskrit Library

• A Centre for Learning: Anoop Singh’s reign was also marked by his patronage of learning and literature. He established the Anoop Sanskrit Library in Bikaner, which became a renowned center for the study of Sanskrit literature and classical Indian music. This library played a crucial role in preserving the rich literary traditions of India.
• Compilations and Collections: The library housed rare music books of Kumbha—the renowned scholar-king of Mewar—and other important Sanskrit manuscripts that Anoop Singh brought back from South India. These collections included texts on music, philosophy, and religion, making the library a vital repository of cultural knowledge.

Literary Contributions 

Anoop Singh was not only a patron of scholars but also an author himself. His writings reflected his deep engagement with religious, philosophical, and literary traditions:

1. Anup Vivek: This text is based on Tantra, an ancient spiritual practice involving rituals and esoteric traditions in Hinduism. Anup Vivek showcases Anoop Singh’s interest in mystical and philosophical aspects of Indian spirituality.
2. Kama Prabodh: A work centered around Kamashastra (the science of love), this book explores the cultural and philosophical dimensions of human relationships and love, reflecting the influence of classical Indian texts like the Kama Sutra.
3. Shraddha Prayog Chintamani: This text focuses on rituals and practices associated with Shraddha—the Hindu ceremonies conducted in honor of departed ancestors. It provides insights into the religious customs that were significant in Rajputana society.
4. Anupodaya: A commentary on the celebrated devotional poem Geet Govind by Jayadeva. The Geet Govind is a seminal work of Sanskrit literature that depicts the love between Lord Krishna and Radha. Anupodaya demonstrates Anoop Singh’s engagement with devotional literature and his efforts to interpret and expand upon classical texts.

Court Scholars and Their Contributions 

Anoop Singh’s court was a hub of intellectual and artistic activity, hosting numerous scholars who contributed to the literary and musical heritage of the time. Some of the notable scholars include:

1. Bhava Bhatt: A prolific writer, Bhava Bhatt authored several important works on music, including:
   • Sangeet Anup Ankush: A treatise on classical music that explores the intricacies of Indian musical theory and practice.
   • Anoop Sangeet Vilas: This work further enriched the musical traditions of the time, providing valuable insights into the performance arts.
   • Anoop Sangeet Ratnakar: A comprehensive compilation of musical knowledge, serving as a guide for musicians and scholars.
2. Gadan Veerabhan: Known for writing Kunwar Anoopsingh ki Veil, a poetic tribute that celebrates the achievements and valor of Anoop Singh. This work is part of the bardic tradition, preserving the oral history and heroism of the Rajput rulers.
3. Anant Bhatt: Authored Tirtha Ratnakar, a text that details various Tirthas (pilgrimage sites) and their spiritual significance. This work reflects the importance of pilgrimage and sacred geography in Rajputana culture.
4. Uday Chandra: His work Panditya Darpan is known for its scholarly commentary on various philosophical topics, adding to the intellectual richness of Anoop Singh’s court.

SURAT SINGH (1787-1828 AD)

Military Campaigns and Territorial Expansion

• Capture of Bhatner (1805 AD): In 1805, Surat Singh successfully captured Bhatner, a strategically significant town in present-day Rajasthan. As the capture occurred on a Tuesday, considered auspicious in Hindu belief and associated with Lord Hanuman, Surat Singh renamed the town to Hanumangarh. This renaming symbolizes the devotion to Lord Hanuman and marks the consolidation of Bikaner’s control over the region.
• Attack on Churu (1814 AD): Surat Singh led a campaign against Churu in 1814 AD, aiming to expand Bikaner’s influence. The siege saw the use of “silver balls” (likely referring to silver-coated cannonballs) fired from the fort of Churu, indicating the intensity of the conflict. At that time, Syoji Singh was the feudatory ruler of Churu, and the battle highlighted the regional rivalries between Rajput states.

Diplomatic Relations with the British

• Treaty with the British (21 March 1818 AD): Surat Singh’s reign was notable for forging formal relations with the British East India Company. On March 21, 1818, he signed a treaty with the British, represented by Charles Metcalfe. This treaty marked Bikaner’s acceptance of British suzerainty, aligning the state’s interests with those of the expanding colonial power. Kashinath Ojha acted as Bikaner’s representative in the negotiations, highlighting the state’s diplomatic engagement with the British.
• Defending Against Attacks by George Thomas: During his rule, George Thomas, a mercenary leader and adventurer, attacked Bikaner twice. These conflicts reflected the volatile nature of the period, as various regional powers sought to assert their influence.
• Support for Jaipur in the Battle of Gingoli: Surat Singh also extended support to Maharaja Jagatsingh II of Jaipur during the Battle of Gingoli, demonstrating the alliances between Rajput rulers against common adversaries.

RATAN SINGH (1828-1851 AD)

Military Engagements and Diplomatic Efforts

• Battle of Basanpir (1829 AD): In 1829, Ratan Singh faced defeat against Maharaja Gaj Singh of Jaisalmer in the Battle of Basanpir, a conflict that underscored the ongoing territorial disputes among Rajput states. The tensions between Jaisalmer and Bikaner were significant, and the conflict highlighted the challenges Ratan Singh faced in consolidating his rule.
• Mediation and Agreement (1835 AD): The rivalry between Bikaner and Jaisalmer was resolved in 1835 AD through mediation by Maharana Jawan Singh of Mewar. The British representative in this agreement was Treveliyan, while the details of the arrangement were documented by Lieutenant Boillo in his book, “Personal Narrative Through Western States of Rajwara,” providing valuable insights into the political dynamics of the era.

Social Reforms and Religious Contributions

• Prohibition of Female Foeticide (1837 AD): Ratan Singh took a progressive step by prohibiting female foeticide in Gaya, Bihar, in 1837 AD. This action reflected a commitment to social reform and an effort to address deeply rooted gender biases in society, setting a precedent for future reforms.
• Construction of Bihari Temple: Ratan Singh’s reign also saw the construction of the Bihari Temple in Bikaner, dedicated to the Vallabh sect. This temple became a center of religious worship and cultural gatherings, contributing to the spiritual life of the region.

Literary Contributions

• Court Scholar: Dayaldas: One of the prominent scholars in Ratan Singh’s court was Dayaldas, who authored Bikaner Ra Rathora Ri Khyat. This book is considered the last famous historical chronicle of Rajasthan, providing comprehensive information about the rulers of Bikaner, from Rao Bika to Sardar Singh. It also includes valuable details about the Rathores of Jodhpur, serving as an important source for understanding the history of the region.

GANGA SINGH (1887–1943 AD)

Military and Diplomatic Achievements

• Role in the Boxer Rebellion (1899 AD): Maharaja Ganga Singh played a significant role in suppressing the Boxer Rebellion in China in 1899. For his contributions, the British awarded him the China War Medal, recognizing his support in maintaining British interests in Asia.
• Title of “Kesar-e-Hind”: During the severe famine known as Chhappania Akal (1899), Ganga Singh’s efficient management of relief measures earned him the title of “Kesar-e-Hind” from the British. This title, meaning “Saffron of India,” acknowledged his humanitarian efforts in alleviating the suffering caused by the drought.
• Establishment of the Praja Pratinidhi Sabha (1913 AD): In 1913, Ganga Singh established the Praja Pratinidhi Sabha, an assembly that aimed to give representation to the people of Bikaner. This step was a progressive move toward introducing representative governance in the princely state.
• Support for Banaras Hindu University (1916 AD): Ganga Singh provided significant financial assistance to Madan Mohan Malaviya for establishing the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1916 AD. His support for this educational institution underscored his commitment to promoting higher education and intellectual advancement in India.

Military Contributions

• Formation of Ganga Risala: Ganga Singh established a camel corps called Ganga Risala, which became a vital part of the Bikaner State Forces. The Ganga Risala participated in both the First and Second World Wars, earning distinction for its contributions to military campaigns in the Middle East and beyond.
• Participation in International Diplomacy: Ganga Singh was an influential figure in international diplomacy. He was elected as the only Indian member of the British War Cabinet during World War I, reflecting his prominent status among Indian princely rulers.
• Representation at the Paris Peace Conference (1919 AD): Ganga Singh attended the Paris Peace Conference in 1919 AD, advocating for Indian interests on the global stage. After returning, he sent the famous “Rome Note” to the British, in which he demanded greater self-governance for India, signaling his early support for Indian autonomy.
• Chamber of Princes (1921-1925 AD): In November 1921, the Governor-General Chelmsford established the Chamber of Princes, a body representing princely states within British India. Ganga Singh was appointed as the first Chancellor of this institution, serving from 1921 to 1925, and playing a key role in shaping the political engagement of princely states with the British Raj.

Developmental Initiatives

• Construction of the Ganga Canal (1927 AD): Ganga Singh’s most notable contribution to infrastructure was the construction of the Ganga Canal, the first major irrigation project in Rajasthan. Because of this achievement, he is referred to as the “Bhagirath of Rajasthan”, likening him to the legendary king who brought the river Ganges to Earth. The project was engineered by Kanver Sen and inaugurated by Lord Irwin at the Shivpuri Head. The canal transformed the arid landscape of Bikaner into fertile land, greatly benefiting the region’s agriculture.
• Lalgarh Palace and Temple Renovations: Ganga Singh built the Lalgarh Palace in memory of his father, Lal Singh, which remains a symbol of architectural elegance in Bikaner. Additionally, he contributed to the renovation of important temples, including those at Ramdevara (Jaisalmer), Deshnok (Bikaner), and Gogamedi (Hanumangarh), preserving and enhancing the spiritual heritage of Rajasthan.
• Participation in Round Table Conferences: Ganga Singh represented Indian interests at all three Round Table Conferences held in London in 1930, 1931, and 1932 AD. His participation was instrumental in voicing the concerns of Indian princely states during the discussions on India’s future governance.

Cultural Contributions

• During his time, Mewar Maharana Swaroop Singh minted coins inscribed with “Dosti London”, symbolizing the alliance between the British and Indian princely states.