Rajputana States (1817-1950)

In the history of this country Rajputana has played a great part. Rajputana region, now Rajasthan, is the Second largest State in India with an area of 342,239 Sq. Km which covers 10.41% of the total area of the country. It lies between 23°3¹ and 30°12' North latitudes and 69°30' and 78°17' East longitudes. The Rajsthan has massive historical forts, ancient temples, magnificent palaces, fine sculpture, attractive paintings with a rich cultural heritage. The Aravalli mountains divide Rajputana into two unequal parts. North West is the great Indian desert and in the South-East lies a land more favuored by nature.

In the mediaeval period of the Indian history, Rajputana became the storm centre of activity. In the first part of this period the kingdoms of Rajputana joined in a grim struggle with the Sultans of Delhi or with the offshoots of disintegrated empire which had emerged on its peripheries. Then they had to face the Mughal agression which proved more penetrating and more abiding. During Akbar's period there were 11 States in Rajputana Mewar, Marwar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Sirohi, Amer, Bundi, Banswara, Dungarpur, Pratapagarh and Karauli Undet the Mughals Rajputana was an imperial province with Ajmer as capital.

The three big States of Rajputana were Mewar (Udaipur), Marwar (Jodhpur) and Amber (Jaipur). Round these the political life of the Rajputana centralized. Most of the other States in Rajputana were founded under their auspices. Mewar had the pride of place and its dynasty had the unchallenged priority among Rajput Princes.

During the Mughal period new States- Kota, Alwar, Bharat pur, Dholpur, Kishangarh and Shahpura were founded in this rigion. The remaining two States Tonk and Jhalawar were established during the British period.

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