Jhalawar was ruled by the Jhala dynasty, a Rajput clan that played a significant role in the history of this region.
MADAN SINGH
Lineage: Madan Singh was the grandson of Jallim Singh Jhala, a prominent figure in the Jhala dynasty.
Establishment of Jhalawar State: In 1837, Madan Singh separated from the princely state of Kota and established the independent state of Jhalawar, thereby marking a significant moment in the regional history of Rajasthan.
British Recognition: The British recognized Jhalawar as a princely state in 1838, formalizing its status among the princely states of India under British rule.
Last Princely State of Rajasthan: Jhalawar holds the distinction of being the last princely state to be established in the Rajasthan region, adding to its historical importance.
Princely States Established in Rajasthan by the British: The British established several princely states in Rajasthan, including:
- Dholpur
- Tonk
- Jhalawar
These states were part of the British strategy to manage and control the region through alliances with local rulers.
Capital of Jhalawar: Jhalrapatan
Location: Jhalrapatan, the capital of the Jhalawar state, is situated on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River, a significant water body in the region that has influenced the area’s culture and economy.
Nickname – City of Bells: Jhalrapatan is also known as the City of Bells due to its rich tradition of temples adorned with bells, which contribute to its distinctive soundscape and cultural identity.
RAJENDRA SINGH
Wooden Palace: Rajendra Singh, a ruler of Jhalawar, made a notable architectural contribution by constructing a wooden palace in Jhalawar. This palace exemplifies the unique architectural style of the period and reflects the cultural heritage of the region.
Religious Reforms: Rajendra Singh was known for his progressive stance towards religious accessibility. He opened all the temples of Jhalawar to the public, which was a significant step in promoting religious inclusivity and reducing caste-based discrimination within the state.
HISTORY OF ALWAR
Ruling Dynasty: Alwar was ruled by the Naruka branch of the Kachhwaha dynasty, a prominent Rajput clan in Rajasthan known for their martial traditions and loyalty to their princely heritage.
Kalyan Singh Naruka: He was a significant figure in the region’s history, granted the jagir of Machedi, which was a princely state under the larger Jaipur dominion.
PRATAP SINGH
Background: Pratap Singh initially served as a feudatory of Machedi, aligning with the interests of Jaipur’s princely state.
Declaration of Independence: In 1774 AD, the Mughal emperor Shah Alam II declared Pratap Singh as an independent king, marking a shift in Alwar’s status from a feudatory to an autonomous entity.
Capture of Alwar: In 1775 AD, Pratap Singh captured Alwar and established it as his capital, solidifying his control over the region.
Literary Reference: Pratap Singh’s life and achievements are chronicled in a work called “Pratap Rasau” by Jachak Jeevan, which highlights his rule and contributions.
BAKHTAWAR SINGH
Literary Pursuits: Bakhtawar Singh was a poet, composing under the pen names Bakhtesh and Chandrasakhi, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of his reign.
Military Alliance with the British: On 1 November 1803 AD, Bakhtawar Singh aided the British against the Sindhis during the war of Lasswadi, demonstrating a strategic alliance with colonial powers.
Treaty with the British: He concluded a treaty with the British on 14 November 1803 AD, securing British recognition and support for his rule over Alwar.
VINAY SINGH
Architectural Contributions:
- Vinay Singh built the Cenotaph of Musi Maharani in Alwar to honor Musi, a maid who served Bakhtawar Singh.
- He also constructed the Silisadh Lake for his queen, Shila, which became a notable landmark in the region.
Cultural Title: He is referred to as the Nandan Kanan of Rajasthan, signifying his contributions to the beautification and development of Alwar.
Conflict over Succession: During his reign, Balwant Singh, the son of Musi Rani, also claimed the throne of Alwar. The British intervened, temporarily making both Balwant Singh and Vinay Singh joint rulers. Later, Balwant Singh was granted control over the parganas of Neemrana and Tijara. Upon his death, these regions were reabsorbed into Alwar.
MANGAL SINGH
Educational Milestone: Mangal Singh holds the distinction of being the first student of Mayo College, an institution known for educating the elite and royals of India.
British Education Scheme: In 1869 AD, a scheme was proposed by Walter to establish separate schools and colleges for the children of kings, maharajas, and feudal lords, aiming to create a divide between them and the general populace. The first school under this scheme was set up in Rajkot, followed by the founding of Mayo College in Ajmer in 1875 AD.
JAISINGH
Political Involvement: Jaisingh attended the First Round Table Conference, where he expressed his aspiration to become the legitimate ruler under a democratic framework.
Educational Patronage: He supported the establishment of the new Sanatan Dharma College in Lahore, contributing to the growth of educational institutions.
Cultural Initiatives: He renamed the Chamber of Princes as Narendra Mandal and declared Hindi as the national language of Alwar, promoting regional pride and cultural identity.
KISHAN SINGH
Cultural and Social Reforms:
- Kishan Singh constructed the Sariska Palace to commemorate the visit of the Duke of Edinburgh to Alwar.
- He implemented progressive social reforms, including the prohibition of child marriage and mismatch marriage on 10 December 1903, as well as bans on Mirtyu Bhoj (funeral feasts) and tobacco use in Alwar.
Challenges and Downfall: Kishan Singh faced challenges during the Tijara riots in 1933 AD, leading to his removal from the throne. He went into exile in Paris, where he eventually died.
Governance Reforms: He established Panchayats in Alwar, aiming to introduce local self-governance. Additionally, during the Ganga Mata Durbar on 20 April 1933, he committed to adopting Swadeshi, reflecting his support for the Indian independence movement.
TEJ SINGH
Role during Independence: Tej Singh was the ruler of Alwar at the time of India’s independence in 1947.
Controversial Allegations: He faced allegations of involvement in Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, but the Supreme Court eventually acquitted him of any wrongdoing. The Prime Minister of Alwar, Narayan Bhaskar Khare, was also implicated in the suspicions surrounding this event.
HISTORY OF JAISALMER
Yaduvansha Princely States: Rajasthan was home to two princely states of the Yaduvansha lineage—Jaisalmer and Karauli. The Jadoun lineage ruled Karauli, while the Bhatis ruled Jaisalmer.
Bhati Clan: The Bhatis claim descent from Lord Shri Krishna, which is why they are known as Chhatrala Yadavapati, signifying their connection to the divine lineage of the Yadu dynasty. Due to their historical role in protecting the northern borders, they earned the title “Uttara Bhadd Kinwar.”
Bhattis and Early History
- Bhatner Capital (285 AD): The Bhattis initially established their capital at Bhatner (present-day Hanumangarh), a strategically significant location in northern Rajasthan.
MANGALRAO
Defeat and Relocation: Mangalrao, after being defeated by Dhundhi, the ruler of Ghazni, retreated into the desert and established Tanaut (Jaisalmer) as his new capital.
Fort Construction: The fort at Tannaut was constructed under Kehar, contributing to the region’s defense and becoming a notable historical structure.
DEVRAJ
Conquests and New Capital: Devraj established Derawar (present-day Pakistan) as his capital and constructed a fort there. After defeating the Paramaras, he gained control over Lodrava (Jaisalmer) and shifted his capital there.
Cultural Legacy: Lodrava is remembered in folklore for the love story of Maumal and Mahendra—Maumal being the princess of Lodrava and Mahendra, the prince of Amarkot (Sindh).
JAISAL
Founding of Jaisalmer (1155 AD): On 12 July 1155 AD, Jaisal established the city of Jaisalmer and built the Jaisalmer Fort, which stands as an architectural marvel in the Thar Desert.
MOOLRAJ I
Invasion by Alauddin Khilji (1299 AD): During Moolraj I’s reign, Alauddin Khilji attacked Jaisalmer. This period witnessed the first Saka of Jaisalmer, a Rajput tradition of ultimate sacrifice. The events of this war are documented in the Persian book “Tareek-i-Masumi” written by Mir Mohammad Masoom.
RAJANSAAL
Firoz Tughlaq’s Attack (1352 AD): During Rajansaal’s rule, Firoz Tughlaq attacked Jaisalmer, leading to the second Saka, another instance of Rajput valour and sacrifice in the face of invasion.
LUNKARAN
Amir Ali’s Invasion (1550 AD): In 1550 AD, Amir Ali of Kandahar (Afghanistan) attacked Jaisalmer. During this period, Kesariya was performed, a traditional Rajput act of valor, but Jauhar (self-immolation by the women) was not carried out, leading it to be referred to as a half-saka.
MOOLRAJ II
Treaty with the British (1818 AD): Moolraj II signed a treaty with the British in 1818, bringing Jaisalmer under the British Empire’s indirect rule.
Paliwal Brahmin Migration: During his time, Salim Singh, the prime minister of Jaisalmer, subjected the Paliwal Brahmins to significant hardships. As a result, the Paliwals migrated from 84 villages, with Kuldhara being a prominent abandoned village.
JAWAHAR SINGH
Role in Independence Era: Jawahar Singh was the ruler of Jaisalmer during India’s independence and is considered the creator of modern Jaisalmer due to his efforts in modernizing the state.
Mohangarh Fort: He built the last fort of India, Mohangarh, a symbol of the region’s architectural heritage.
Sagarmal Gopa Incident (3 April 1946): Sagarmal Gopa, a freedom fighter, was burned alive in prison under Jawahar Singh’s rule. To investigate this tragic incident, the Gopal Swaroop Pathak Commission was set up.
SAGARMAL GOPA
Literary Works: He authored the following books that highlighted his perspective on the social and political issues of the time:
- Azadi ke Deewane
- Jaisalmer ka Gundaraj
- Raghunath Singh ka Mukadma
Ban on Entry: The princely states of Jaisalmer and Hyderabad banned his entry, reflecting his contentious stance against oppressive regimes.
Historical Legacy of Bhatis
Vijayaraja’s Reign: The history of the Bhatis becomes more detailed during the rule of Vijayaraja. His son, Bhoj, was martyred while fighting against the Goris, a testament to the family’s martial tradition and resilience.
Jaisalmer’s Significance
- Nehru’s Praise: Jawaharlal Nehru referred to the princely state of Jaisalmer as the eighth wonder of the world, appreciating its unique culture and historical heritage.
- Amarkash Canal: Amarsingh, a ruler of Jaisalmer, engineered a project called Amarkash, a canal that brought the Indus River’s water to Jaisalmer, highlighting the state’s efforts in improving water resources in the arid region.
HISTORY OF KARAULI
Ruling Dynasty: The Jadoun branch of the Yaduvansha dynasty ruled over Karauli, connecting the region to the ancient lineage of Lord Krishna.
VIJAYPAL
Lineage and Early History: Vijaypal belonged to the Shursen branch of the Mathura lineage, further strengthening the ties between the Jadoun dynasty and the Yaduvansha heritage.
Capital Shift (1040 AD): In 1040 AD, Vijaypal established Bayana (present-day Bharatpur) as his capital, marking the beginning of a new phase of rule for the region.
TIMANPAL
Capital at Timangarh: Timanpal shifted the capital to Timangarh (present-day Karauli). Timangarh became a center of power for the Jadoun rulers during this period.
KUWARPAL
Invasion by Mohammad Gauri: During Kuwarpal’s reign, Mohammad Gauri captured Timangarh, leading to a significant change in the control of the region.
DHARMAPALA II
Capital Shift to Karauli (1650 AD): In 1650 AD, Dharmapala II moved the capital from Timangarh to Karauli, which marked a pivotal moment in the region’s history.
Previous Name – Kalyanpur: Before being named Karauli, the region was known as Kalyanpur, founded by Arjunpal in 1348 AD. This renaming marked Karauli’s emergence as a central seat of power in the region.
GOPAL PAL
Construction of Madan Mohan Temple: Gopal Pal built the Madan Mohan Temple in Karauli, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and follows the Gaudiya sect. This temple remains a significant religious site, reflecting the spiritual heritage of the region.
HARBAKSH PAL
Treaty with the British (9 November 1817 AD): Harbaksh Pal signed a treaty with the British on 9 November 1817 AD, aligning Karauli with British interests and bringing the region under the protection of the British Empire.
Succession Dispute after Narasimha Pal’s Death
- Narasimha Pal’s Death (1852): Following the death of Narasimha Pal in 1852, the British refused to recognize his adopted son, Bharatpal, as the ruler of Karauli.
- Merger with the British Empire (1855): As a result, Governor General Lord Dalhousie annexed Karauli into the British Empire in 1855 under the Doctrine of Lapse.
- Restoration of Karauli’s Independence: However, the Court of Directors advised against the annexation, leading to the cancellation of Karauli’s merger. Madanpal was then installed as the rightful ruler, reinstating the princely state’s autonomy.
MADANPAL
Role in the 1857 Rebellion: During the Revolution of 1857, Madanpal extended support to Raja Am Singh II of Kota, aligning himself with the larger struggle against British rule. For his loyalty to British interests, Madanpal was honored with a 17-gun salute, a significant recognition of his status.
Visit of Swami Dayanand Saraswati (1865 AD): In 1865 AD, Swami Dayanand Saraswati, a prominent reformer and founder of the Arya Samaj, visited Karauli. This visit marked Swami Dayanand Saraswati’s first trip to Rajasthan, highlighting the region’s role in the broader cultural and spiritual movements of the time.
HISTORY OF BHARATPUR
Jat Kingdom in Rajasthan: Rajasthan was home to two princely states ruled by the Jat kingdom:
- Bharatpur
- Dhaulpur
Jat Rebellions Against the Mughals
- Gokula’s Revolt (1669 AD): In 1669 AD, the Jat peasants around Mathura revolted against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb due to his repressive policies. This rebellion, led by Gokula of Tilpat, was eventually suppressed by Aurangzeb.
- Rajaram’s Revolt (1687 AD): Rajaram, a Jat zamindar from Sinsini (Bharatpur), led another uprising in 1687 AD. During this rebellion, he famously looted Akbar’s tomb at Sikandra (Agra) as a symbolic act of defiance against the Mughals. However, Aurangzeb also suppressed this revolt.
CHURAMAN
Fort at Thun: Churaman played a significant role in the early history of Bharatpur by constructing the fort at Thun in the Bharatpur region, laying the foundation for Jat power in the area.
BADAN SINGH
Ascension to Power: Badan Singh became the ruler of Bharatpur with the assistance of Sawai Jai Singh II of Jaipur.
Title of Brijraj and Jagir of Deeg: In recognition of his leadership, Sawai Jai Singh awarded him the title of Brijraj and granted him the jagir of Deeg.
Fort Constructions: He constructed several forts at Deeg, Vair, and Kumher, which were strategic centers for the emerging Jat power.
MAHARAJA SURAJ MAL (1756-63 AD)
Founder of the Jat State: Although the groundwork was laid by his predecessors, Suraj Mal is regarded as the de facto founder of the Jat state of Bharatpur, consolidating and expanding its influence.
Plato of the Jats: He is known as the Plato of the Jats or Aflatoon of the Jats, a tribute to his wisdom, strategic acumen, and leadership qualities.
Architectural Contributions: Suraj Mal built Jalmahals (water palaces) in Deeg, leading to Deeg being known as the city of Jalmahals. He also constructed the fort in Bharatpur, which became a symbol of Jat strength.
Administrative Reforms: During his reign, administrative reforms were implemented, including the establishment of a merit-based bureaucracy. These changes helped to strengthen governance in Bharatpur.
Agricultural Reforms: Suraj Mal introduced agricultural reforms that boosted productivity, leading to an impressive annual income of 1.75 crore rupees for the state.
Conflict with the Marathas and Ahmad Shah Abdali (1760 AD): Suraj Mal initially allied with the Marathas against Ahmad Shah Abdali. However, due to disagreements with the Maratha commander Sadashivrao Bhau, he withdrew to Bharatpur. After the defeat at the Third Battle of Panipat, Suraj Mal provided refuge and support to the retreating Marathas.
Scholarly Work: The court scholar Mangal Singh Purohit documented Suraj Mal’s reign in a book titled “Sujan Samwat Vilas,” providing insights into his rule.
Battle Against Ruhela Afghans: On 25 December 1763 AD, Suraj Mal fought against the Ruhela Afghans and was martyred during a battle against Najib Khan on the banks of the Hindon River.
Legacy: Historian Kalikaranjan Kanungas praised Suraj Mal, noting that he embodied the virtues of his community: strength, courage, shrewdness, loyalty, and a resilient spirit, never accepting defeat.
JAWAHAR SINGH
Victory in Delhi: Jawahar Singh, Suraj Mal’s successor, attacked Delhi and brought back the Ashta metal doors, which were installed in the Bharatpur Fort. To commemorate this victory, he built the Jawahar Burj in Bharatpur Fort, which later became the site for the coronation of Bharatpur’s rulers.
Battle of Manvada (1767 AD): In 1767 AD, Raja Madhosingh I of Jaipur defeated Jawahar Singh in the battle of Manvada (Sikar), highlighting the regional rivalries in Rajasthan.
RANJIT SINGH
Alliance with the British (29 September 1803 AD): Ranjit Singh entered into a treaty with the British on 29 September 1803 AD, marking a significant shift in the political alliances of Bharatpur.
Role in the Second British-Maratha War (1803-1806 AD): During the Second British-Maratha War, Jaswant Rao Holkar, a Maratha commander, sought refuge in Bharatpur. Despite facing attacks from British Commander Lord Lake, Ranjit Singh successfully defended Bharatpur Fort. The fort’s resilience earned it the name “Lohagarh” or “Iron Fort.”
Fateh Burj: In memory of their defense against the British, Fateh Burj was constructed within Bharatpur Fort, symbolizing the Jat victory.
Battle of Deeg (23 December 1804 AD): At Deeg, Jaswant Rao Holkar defeated Major Fraser, a British officer, and gained control of the area. However, on 23 December 1804 AD, the British captured Deeg, prompting Holkar to seek refuge in Bharatpur.
Holkar’s Victory (8 July 1804): Holkar defeated the British commander Manson on the banks of the Chambal River near Kota. This was the first British defeat in Rajasthan, with Kota state supporting the British.