tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1904619371203996682024-02-20T08:27:53.145-08:00RajputDigvijayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08329005608971922893noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-190461937120399668.post-67351400813551802092007-02-11T12:52:00.000-08:002007-02-11T12:51:47.576-08:00<a name="See_also" id="See_also"></a> <div class="thumb tleft"><div class="thumb tright"><div class="thumb tright"> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">शूरबाहूषु लोकोऽयं लम्बते पुत्रवत् सदा ।</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">तस्मात् सर्वास्ववस्थासु शूरः सम्मानमर्हित।।</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">न िह शौर्यात् परं िकं चित् ित्रलोके षु िवधते।</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">शूरः सर्वं पालयित सर्वं शूरे पर्ितिष्ठतम् ।।<br /><br /></span> <div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Arms of the brave (kshatriya) always support and sustain the people like (a father his) son.<br />A brave (kshatriya) is, for this reason, honoured by all, in all situations.<br />There is nothing in all the three worlds, which is beyond (the reach of) bravery.<br />Brave (kshatriya) sustains all, and all depend upon the brave.<br /></span></div> </div> <div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >(Mahabharata, Shanti Parva, 99. 17-18)</span><br /><br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><b>Rajput</b>, (<i>raja-putra</i>: "son of a king") is a hindu <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya" title="Kshatriya">kshatriya</a> caste. The Rajputs trace their origins to the ancient <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya" title="Kshatriya">Kshatriya</a> dynasties of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>. It is estimated that currently there are 40 million Rajputs.<br /><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" id="toctitle"><big><span style="font-size:180%;">Contents</span><br /></big></div> <ul><big> </big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Definition"><span class="tocnumber">1</span> <span class="toctext">Definition</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Origins_and_Geographical_Presence"><span class="tocnumber">2</span> <span class="toctext">Origins and Geographical Presence</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Suryavanshi"><span class="tocnumber">2.1</span> <span class="toctext">Suryavanshi</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Chandravanshi"><span class="tocnumber">2.2</span> <span class="toctext">Chandravanshi</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Agnivanshi"><span class="tocnumber">2.3</span> <span class="toctext">Agnivanshi</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Myths"><span class="tocnumber">2.4</span> <span class="toctext">Myths</span></a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#The_Rajput_Rule_of_India"><span class="tocnumber">3</span> <span class="toctext">The Rajput Rule of India</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Social_hierarchy"><span class="tocnumber">3.1</span> <span class="toctext">Social hierarchy</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Character"><span class="tocnumber">4</span> <span class="toctext">Character</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Jauhar"><span class="tocnumber">4.1</span> <span class="toctext">Jauhar</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Saka"><span class="tocnumber">4.2</span> <span class="toctext">Saka</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Rajput_Chivalry"><span class="tocnumber">4.3</span> <span class="toctext">Rajput Chivalry</span></a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big><br /></big></li><big> </big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Rajput_Armies"><span class="tocnumber">5</span> <span class="toctext">Rajput Armies</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Rajputs_and_Invasions_of_India"><span class="tocnumber">6</span> <span class="toctext">Rajputs and Invasions of India</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Organization_of_Indian_kingdoms_during_invasions"><span class="tocnumber">6.1</span> <span class="toctext">Organization of Indian kingdoms during invasions</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Partial_list_of_Rajputs_who_fought_the_invaders"><span class="tocnumber">6.2</span> <span class="toctext">Partial list of Rajputs who fought the invaders</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Bappa_Rawal"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.1</span> <span class="toctext">Bappa Rawal</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Prithviraj_Chauhan"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.2</span> <span class="toctext">Prithviraj Chauhan</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Hammir_Dev_Chauhan"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.3</span> <span class="toctext">Hammir Dev Chauhan</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Rawal_Ratan_Singh.2CGora.2CBadal"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.4</span> <span class="toctext">Rawal Ratan Singh,Gora,Badal</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Maharana_Hammir"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.5</span> <span class="toctext">Maharana Hammir</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Maharana_Kumbha"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.6</span> <span class="toctext">Maharana Kumbha</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Rana_Sanga"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.7</span> <span class="toctext">Rana Sanga</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Rao_Maldeo_Rathore"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.8</span> <span class="toctext">Rao Maldeo Rathore</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Maharani_Durgavati"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.9</span> <span class="toctext">Maharani Durgavati</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Maharana_Pratap"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.10</span> <span class="toctext">Maharana Pratap</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.11</span> <span class="toctext">Maharajah Jaswant Singh</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Durga_Das_Rathore"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.12</span> <span class="toctext">Durga Das Rathore</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Banda_Bhadur"><span class="tocnumber">6.2.13</span> <span class="toctext">Banda Bhadur</span></a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Protection_of_Hinduism"><span class="tocnumber">7</span> <span class="toctext">Protection of Hinduism</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Prominent_Rajput_clans_.26_their_main_centers"><span class="tocnumber">8</span> <span class="toctext">Prominent Rajput clans & their main centers</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Clans_of_Jammu_and_Himachal"><span class="tocnumber">8.1</span> <span class="toctext">Clans of Jammu and Himachal</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#List_of_Famous_Modern_Day_Rajputs"><span class="tocnumber">9</span> <span class="toctext">List of Famous Modern Day Rajputs</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Politics"><span class="tocnumber">9.1</span> <span class="toctext">Politics</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Sports"><span class="tocnumber">9.2</span> <span class="toctext">Sports</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Defence_Forces"><span class="tocnumber">9.3</span> <span class="toctext">Defence Forces</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Param_Vir_Chakra_winners_.28Highest_gallantry_award_in_India.29"><span class="tocnumber">9.3.1</span> <span class="toctext">Param Vir Chakra winners (Highest gallantry award in India)</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Maha_Vir_Chakra_winners_.28Second_highest_gallantry_award_in_India.29"><span class="tocnumber">9.3.2</span> <span class="toctext">Maha Vir Chakra winners (Second highest gallantry award in India)</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-3"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Victoria_Cross_winners"><span class="tocnumber">9.3.3</span> <span class="toctext">Victoria Cross winners</span></a></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><ul><big> </big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#Saints"><span class="tocnumber">9.4</span> <span class="toctext">Saints</span></a></big></li><big> </big></ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-1"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#References"><span class="tocnumber">10</span> <span class="toctext">References</span></a><br /></big> <ul><big><br /></big><li class="toclevel-2"><big><a href="http://hindurajput.blogspot.com/#External_Links"><span class="tocnumber">10.1</span> <span class="toctext">External Links</span></a></big></li></ul></li></ul><br /></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Definition" id="Definition"></a></big></p> <h2><big>Definition</big></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Rajputs are a sub-group of hindu <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya" title="Kshatriya">Kshatriya</a> varna. They have a hindu <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jati" title="Jati">Jati</a> (an endogamous group within the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism" title="Hinduism">Hindu</a> social system). Rajputs are literally sons-of-kings. They are divided into 36 major clans, names of which are recorded in several texts including the <i>Kumarpala Charita</i> of Jayasimha, and <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prithviraj_Raso" title="Prithviraj Raso">Prithviraj Raso</a></i> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandbardai" title="Chandbardai">Chandbardai</a>.<br /></big></p> <blockquote><big>राजपुत्रौ कु शलिनौ भ्रातरौ रामलक् ष्मणौ ।<br />सर्वशाखामर्गेन्द्रेण सुग्रीवेणािभपालितौ ।।<br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">The two brothers, the princes Rama and Lakshmana, fare well protected by Sugriva, the lord of all the monkeys.<br /></span></div> <div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >(Mahabharata, Ramopakhayana, 3.266.61)</span></div></blockquote> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama">Bhagwan Ram</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakshmana">Lakshmana</a> are referred to as Rajaputra in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata">Mahabharata</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha">Bhagwan Buddha</a> was also referred to as Rajaputra in Buddhist texts.<br /></big><blockquote><big>स राजपुत्रो वव्र्धे आशु शुक् ल इवोडुपः ।<br />आपूर्यमाणः िपत्र्िभः क ाष्ठािभिरव सो ऽन्वहम्।।<br /></big><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">As the moon, in its waxing fortnight, develops day after day, so the royal prince [Parikshit] very soon developed luxuriantly under the care and full facilities of his guardian grandfathers.<br /></span><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >(Srimad Bhagavatam, 1.12.311)</span></div></blockquote><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhimanyu">Abhimanyu</a>'s son <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parikshita">Parikshit</a> is called Rajaputra in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Srimad_Bhagavatam">Bhagvat Purana</a>. Rajaputras have also been referred to in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kautilya">Kautilya</a>'s (350-283 B.C) <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arthashastra"><span style="font-style: italic;">Arthashashtra</span>,</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalidasa">Kalidasa</a>'s (1st century B.C) <span style="font-style: italic;">Malvikagnimitra</span>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asvaghosha">Asvaghosha</a>'s (80-150 A.D.) <span style="font-style: italic;">Saundarananda</span>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banabhatta">Banbhatta</a>'s (7th century A.D.) <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harsha_Charitha">Harshacharita</a> and <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kadambari">Kadambari</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalhana">Kalhana</a>'s (12th century A.D.) <a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajatarangini">Rajatarangini</a>.<br /></big> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Damodarpur copper-plate inscription of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumara_Gupta_I">Kumaragupta III</a> (533 A.D)</big><big> records that the Governor of Bhukti of Pundravardhana, </big><big>Rajaputra-Dev-Bhattaraka,</big><big> was a son of the emperor, bearing the title Uparika Maharaja and 'rendering his homage to the king'</big><big>. Rajputra are also mentioned in Sumandala Copper Plate inscription of Prithvigraha, Gupta era (570 A.D). There are Rajputra references in many <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Licchavi">Licchavi</a> inscriptions (Recorded in D.R. Regimi's, <span style="font-style: italic;">Inscriptions of Ancient Nepal</span>, Abhinav Publications, ISBN</big><span class="smallselect"> 0391025597</span><big>). <span><span>Rajputra </span></span>Vajraratha, Babharuvarma, and Deshavarma are mentioned in the inscriptions of Sikubahi (Shankhamul) which describe the reigns of Licchavi kings Gangadeva (567-573 A.D) and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amshuvarma">Amshuvarma</a> (605-621 A.D) respectively. The inscriptions of Sanga mentions the name of <span>Rajputra</span> Vikramasena, Gnoli inscription mentions <span>Rajaputra</span> Jayadeva, inscription of Deopatan mentions <span>Rajputra</span> Shurasena, and the inscriptions of Adeshwar mentions the <span>Rajaputras</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>Nandavarma, Jishnuvarma and Bhimavarma.<br /><br />In 606 A.D. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harshavardhana">King Harshavardhana</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannauj">Kannauj</a> was crowned as <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rajaputra Siladitya.</span> Following excerpt from Page 146, of <span style="font-style: italic;">Advanced History of India</span> written by R.C. Majumdar, H.C. Raychaudhuri, and Kaukinkar Datta, ISBN 0333 90298 X:<br /><blockquote>It is however, certain that Harsha found himself at the head of the kingdom of his brother as well as that of his brother-in-law. But he contended himself at first with the modest title of Rajaputra Siladitya.</blockquote> Apshad inscription of Adityasena (8th century A.D) mentions Madhavagupta who is identical with Madhavgupta, the Malawa Rajaputra of Bana's Harshacharita. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nadol">Nadol</a> Plates of 1161 A.D. mention Rajaputra Kirtipal, the progenitor of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Songara">Songara</a> (Svarnagiri) <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan">Chauhan</a> dynasty of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore">Jalore</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi">Delhi</a> Shivalik Pillar inscription, dating to A.D. 1163 of Chauhan King Virgharaj IV (Bisaldev) refers to his Mahamantri (Chief Minister) as Rajaputra Sallakshanpal.<br /><br /></big></p> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://www.shunya.net/Pictures/Rajasthan/Udaipur/MotiMagri2.jpg" style="width: 900px; height: 598px;" /><br /><small><small><small><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> riding </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chetak" title="Chetak">Chetak</a></small></small></small></big></div> <p><big><a name="Origins_and_Geographical_Presence" id="Origins_and_Geographical_Presence"></a></big></p> <h2><big>Origins and Geographical Presence</big></h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <p><big>Rajputs are indigenous to India. Historians have wrongly tried to identify rajputs as descendants of Aryan Invaders, Scythians, Huns etc. Genetic research shows, there was never any aryan invasion of India. In addition Indian castes have no genetic influx from "foreigners". Geneticists, Sanghamitra Sahoo and Toomas Kivisild, in a 2006 <a href="http://www.pnas.org/cgi/content/full/103/4/843#SEC2">paper</a> (click the paper to read it), have concluded:</big></p> <blockquote><big>. . . chromosomal data consistently suggest a largely<sup> </sup>South Asian origin for Indian caste communities and therefore<sup> </sup>argue against any major influx, from regions north and west<sup> </sup>of India (from so called cradle of civilization), of people associated either with the development of<sup> </sup>agriculture or the spread of the Indo-Aryan language family.<sup> </sup></big></blockquote> <big>Anthropologist, <a href="http://links.jstor.org/sici?sici=0025-1496%281912%291%3A12%3C1%3A1SHRKC%3E2.0.CO%3B2-K&size=LARGE">Sir Herbert Risley</a>, writes on Page 60 of his book, <span style="font-style: italic;">People of India</span>:<br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <blockquote><big>. . . we have good historical reason for believing that the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/scythian">scythian</a> invaders of India came from a region occupied exclusively by broad headed races and must themselves have belonged to that type. They were by all accounts, nations or, hordes of horsemen with broad faces and high cheek bones, and short and sturdy of stature, . . . . In their original homes in central Asia steppes their manner of life was that of pastoral nomads, and their instincts were of the predatory order. It seems therefore prima facie unlikely that there descendants are to be looked for among tribes who are essentially of the long headed type (Rajputs), settled agriculturists with no tradition of nomadic or marauding past.</big></blockquote> </div> <big>Rajputs predominantly belong to three lineages: the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suryavanshi" title="Suryavanshi">Suryavanshi</a> (Solar Race), the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandravanshi" title="Chandravanshi">Chandravanshi</a> (Lunar Race), and the <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agni-kunda" title="Agni-kunda">Agni vanshi</a></i> (Fire Born). Some scholars also include <i>Rishi vanshi</i>, <i>Nag Vanshi</i> and <i>Vayu Vanshi</i> as separate classes.<br /></big></div> <p><big><a name="Suryavanshi" id="Suryavanshi"></a></big></p> <h3><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suryavanshi" title="Suryavanshi">Suryavanshi</a></big></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Suryavanshi rajputs trace their lineage to the Vedic Sun - <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surya" title="Surya">Surya</a>. Lord <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rama" title="Rama">Rama</a> was also born in this lineage. Suryavanshi rajputs ruled over <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amber" title="Amber">Amber</a>, etc.<br /></big></div> <p><big><a name="Chandravanshi" id="Chandravanshi"></a></big></p> <h3><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandravanshi" title="Chandravanshi">Chandravanshi</a></big></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Somvanshi/Chandravanshi rajputs descended from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Som" title="Som">Som</a> (the vedic deity Soma or Moon). <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandravanshi" title="Chandravanshi">Chandravanshi</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandravanshi" title="Chandravanshi">Yaduvanshi</a> are from the same line which bifurcated at King Yadu when his father banished him from becoming the king. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaisalmer" title="Jaisalmer">Jaisalmer</a> was ruled by Chandravanshi rajputs. The Yaduvanshi trace there lineage to Lord <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna" title="Krishna">Krishn</a>.</big></p> <p><big><a name="Agnivanshi" id="Agnivanshi"></a></big></p> <h3><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnivanshi" title="Agnivanshi">Agnivanshi</a></big></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Agnivanshi rajputs have a mythological belief that they originated from fire. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bundi" title="Bundi">Bundi</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kotah" title="Kotah">Kotah</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore" title="Jalore">Jalore</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirohi" title="Sirohi">Sirohi</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a> were ruled by Agnivanshi rajputs. In reality Agnivanshi rajputs are also a sub-division of Suryavanshi and Chandravanshi rajputs.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big> Each <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vansha" title="Vansha">vansha</a> is divided into many <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cula" title="Cula">cula</a> and each <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cula" title="Cula">cula</a> is further divided into many <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakha" title="Shakha">shakha</a>. For a pictorial description please see the figure:<a href="http://content.cdlib.org/xtf/view?docId=ft2g5004kg&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;chunk.id=d0e993&toc.depth=1&toc.id=d0e993&brand=ucpress" class="external text" title="http://content.cdlib.org/xtf/view?docId=ft2g5004kg&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;chunk.id=d0e993&toc.depth=1&toc.id=d0e993&brand=ucpress"><br /></a></big></p> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 302px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/90/260605480_7a9590d341.jpg" style="width: 315px; height: 265px;" /></span><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Rajput Shakha(Clan Tree)<br /></small></small></div> <big><br /></big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>For example Suryavanshi rajput <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cula" title="Cula">cula</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a>, is divided into these <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakha" title="Shakha">shakha</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhandhul" title="Dhandhul">Dhandhul</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhadail" title="Bhadail">Bhadail</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khokra" title="Khokra">Khokra</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodha" title="Jodha">Jodha</a> etc; Similarly <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guhilote" title="Guhilote">Guhilote</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cula" title="Cula">cula</a> is subdivided into these shakha: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aharya" title="Aharya">Aharya</a> (at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dungarpur" title="Dungarpur">Doongarpur</a>), <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sisodiya" title="Sisodiya">Sisodiya</a> (at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>), <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peeparra" title="Peeparra">Peeparra</a> (at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a>), etc.<br /></big></div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big> Each <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakha" title="Shakha">shakha</a> has its <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gotra_Acharya" title="Gotra Acharya">Gotra Acharya</a>, a genealogical creed, describing the essential peculiarities, religious tenets and pristine locale of the clan. It is a touchstone of affinities and guardian of the laws of intermarriage.</big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Rathore Gotra Acharya -- <i>Gautam gotra, Mardwunduni Shakha, Shukra-Acharya Guru, Garroopata Agni, Pankhini Devi</i>.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big> These twelve of 36 <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clans" title="Clans">clans</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajputs" title="Rajputs">rajputs</a> further subdivide:</big></p> <ul><big> </big><li style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gehlote" title="Gehlote">Gehlote</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parmara" title="Parmara">Parmara</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhan</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solanki" title="Solanki">Solanki</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanwar/Tomar/Tuar" title="Tanwar/Tomar/Tuar">Tanwar/ Tomar/ Tuar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BirGoojur" title="BirGoojur">BirGoojur</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parihaar" title="Parihaar">Parihaar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhala" title="Jhala">Jhala</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yadu" title="Yadu">Yadu</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katchwaha" title="Katchwaha">Katchwaha</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gor" title="Gor">Gor</a>.</big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big>Rest of the 24 clans are 'Eka' and do not divide further:<br /></big> <ul style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sengar" title="Sengar">Sengar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balla" title="Balla">Balla</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khurwur" title="Khurwur">Khurwur</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chawura" title="Chawura">Chawura</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dahima" title="Dahima">Dahima</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dahiya" title="Dahiya">Dahiya</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Byce" title="Byce">Byce</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gherwal" title="Gherwal">Gherwal</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nikumpa" title="Nikumpa">Nikumpa</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewut" title="Dewut">Dewut</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johya" title="Johya">Johya</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikerwal" title="Sikerwal">Sikerwal</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dabia" title="Dabia">Dabia</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doda" title="Doda">Doda</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mori" title="Mori">Mori</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mokarra" title="Mokarra">Mokarra</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abhirra" title="Abhirra">Abhirra</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalchoruk" title="Kalchoruk">Kalchoruk</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnipala" title="Agnipala">Agnipala</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aswariya" title="Aswariya">Aswariya</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hool" title="Hool">Hool</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manutwal" title="Manutwal">Manutwal</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mallia" title="Mallia">Mallia</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chhahil" title="Chhahil">Chhahil</a>.</big></li></ul> <p><big><a name="Myths" id="Myths"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Myths</big></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>One version of the story of <i>Agni kula</i> origins is that four warriors, Agnikul, Yadaukul, Suryakul and Odak, whose names are given to the Rajput clans, sprang from the sacred fire (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agni-kunda" title="Agni-kunda">Agni-kunda</a>) in a ceremony performed by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sage" title="Sage">Sage</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vasishta" title="Vasishta">Vashishtha</a> near <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Abu" title="Mount Abu">Mount Abu</a>. Sage Vashishta undertook this Yagya to develop warriors who could help the ordinary mortals against the demons.<br /><br />There is another myth which states Rajputs were descendants of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rishabh" title="Rishabh">Rishabh</a>, the founding <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jain" title="Jain">Jain</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tirthankara" title="Tirthankara">Tirthankara</a>.<br /><br /></big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Rajputs reside mainly in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_India" title="North India">northern</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_India" title="West India">western</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/East_India" title="East India">eastern</a> and central <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/States_and_territories_of_India" title="States and territories of India">states</a> of India. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a>, which has a very high concentration of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajputs" title="Rajputs">Rajputs</a>, is located in northwestern <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>, near the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khyber_Pass" title="Khyber Pass">Khyber Pass</a> route used by most foreign invasions of India, including the Arabs, Afghans, Turks, Mughals, and other Islamic invaders of the Middle Ages. In his <i>New History of India</i>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stanley_Wolpert" title="Stanley Wolpert">Stanley Wolpert</a> wrote "The Rajputs were the vanguard of Hindu India in the face of the Islamic onslaught." Rajputs live in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himachal_Pradesh" title="Himachal Pradesh">Himachal Pradesh</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madhya_Pradesh" title="Madhya Pradesh">Madhya Pradesh</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uttar_Pradesh" title="Uttar Pradesh">Uttar Pradesh</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bihar" title="Bihar">Bihar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haryana" title="Haryana">Haryana</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjab" title="Punjab">Punjab</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jammu_and_Kashmir" title="Jammu and Kashmir">Jammu and Kashmir</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharashtra" title="Maharashtra">Maharashtra</a>.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="The_Rajput_Rule_of_India" id="The_Rajput_Rule_of_India"></a></big></p> <h2><big>The Rajput Rule of India<br /></big></h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/32/Pritam_niwas_with.jpg" style="width: 572px; height: 428px;" /><br /></big> <div style="text-align: left; font-weight: bold; font-family: times new roman,times,serif;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small><i>Chandramahal</i>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaipur" title="Jaipur">Jaipur</a> was built by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kachwaha" title="Kachwaha">Kachwaha</a> Rajputs</small></small></div> </div><br /><big>Rajput kings are mainly remembered as warriors and as influential rulers. They also played an important role in the emergence of modern-day society in northern India. Rajput rulers were also prolific builders of beautiful palaces. Archaeological evidence and contemporary texts suggest that the Indian society had achieved significant prosperity during the Rajput rule. Most of the archaeological remains in several regions of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_subcontinent" title="Indian subcontinent">Indian subcontinent</a> are from the Rajput period.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>It was also a period of spread of literacy. Numerous inscriptions from this period have been found. A significant fraction of them are by people who were unaffiliated with the nobles, suggesting that education was spreading among the common people. The literature composed in this period is in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit" title="Sanskrit">Sanskrit</a> and in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apabhramsha" title="Apabhramsha">Apabhramshas</a> which constitutes a large segment of the classical Indian literature. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paramara" title="Paramara">Paramara</a> king <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhoj" title="Bhoj">Bhoj</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhara" title="Dhara">Dhara</a> was not only a patron of scholars, but was himself a distinguished and prolific scholar. His <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samarangana-sutradhara" title="Samarangana-sutradhara">Samarangana-sutradhara</a> deals with architecture and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raja-Martanda" title="Raja-Martanda">Raja-Martanda</a> is a famous commentary on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yoga" title="Yoga">Yoga</a>-<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sutra" title="Sutra">sutra</a>.</big><br /></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> The intermarriage among the Rajput clans interlinked different regions of India, making it easier for the trade and scholarship to flow from one part of the country to another. Rajput kings were very secular in character and permitted all faiths to flourish in their domains. Rajputs practice <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vedic" title="Vedic">Vedic</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaivism" title="Shaivism">Shaiva</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaishnavism" title="Vaishnavism">Vaishnava</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakti" title="Shakti">Shakti</a> and occasionally <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism" title="Jainism">Jain</a> traditions; they supported Buddhists, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parsi" title="Parsi">Zoroastrians</a> and Sufi traditions as well. The vast majority of Rajputs practice Hinduism. There are some Rajputs who follow the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikh" title="Sikh">Sikh</a> panth, and they often intermarry with Hindu Rajputs even today.<br /></big></div> <p><big><a name="Social_hierarchy" id="Social_hierarchy"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Social hierarchy</big></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Rajputs supported <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmins" title="Brahmins">Brahmins</a> as scholars and priests. However, Rajputs had their own family priests, known as the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Purohit" title="Purohit">Purohits</a>. Some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scion" title="Scion">scions</a> of noble Rajput families would officiate themselves as priests in their Hindu temples. For example, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sisodia" title="Sisodia">Sisodia</a> kings of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a> considered themselves as the regents of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eklingji" title="Eklingji">Eklingji</a>, a manifestation of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva" title="Shiva">Shiva</a>, and serve as the high priest of the deity as well as ruler of the state.<br /><br /></big></div> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://www.columbia.edu/itc/mealac/pritchett/00routesdata/1400_1499/rajputforts/alwar/photo1.jpg" style="width: 1402px; height: 352px;" /><br /></big> <div style="text-align: left; font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Cenotaphs of Kachwaha Rajputs of Alwar</small></small></div> </div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Character" id="Character"></a></big></p> <h2><big>Character</big></h2> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>The Rajput ethos is martial in spirit, fiercely proud, loyal and independent, and emphasizes lineage and tradition. Rajput <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patriotism" title="Patriotism">patriotism</a> is legendary, an ideal they embodied by choosing death before dishonour. Rajput warriors were often known to fight until the last man. The practice of <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jauhar" title="Jauhar">jauhar</a></i> and <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saka" title="Saka">saka</a></i> was followed only in rajput communities.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Jauhar" id="Jauhar"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Jauhar</big></h3> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>When the outcome of a battle was against the Rajputs, <i>jauhar</i> would be committed by Rajput women and children in the night and next morning men would commit <i>saka</i>. Brahmin priests would chant Vedic <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mantra" title="Mantra">mantras</a> and Rajput women wearing their marriage dresses, along with their young children, embrace <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandalwood" title="Sandalwood">sandalwood</a> flames.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Saka" id="Saka"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Saka</big></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>The next morning after taking a bath, the men would wear <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kesariya" title="Kesariya">kesariya</a> and apply the ash from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha" title="Maha">maha</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samadhi" title="Samadhi">samadhi</a> <i>of their wives and children</i> on their foreheads and put a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulsi" title="Tulsi">tulsi</a> leaf in their mouth. Then the palace gates would be opened and men would ride out for complete annhiliation of the enemy or themselves. Rajput men and women could not be captured alive.</big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>When <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindus</a> fought against other <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindus</a> there were never any <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jauhar" title="Jauhar">johars</a></i> or <i>saka</i> because the defeated were treated with dignity. However, history records very few instances wherein a Rajput king sued for peace after a battle reversal and the Muslims initially agreed to the peace terms, only for the Rajputs, and their women and children, to be slaughtered upon surrender and once the <i>pols</i> or gates of their mighty fortresses were opened.<br /><br />One example of this is war between Puran Mal of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raisen" title="Raisen">Raisina</a> and Sher Shah Suri. The opposite is true for wars between Marathas and Rajputs, where even after battle reversals, no jauhars took place in Rajasthan.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Rajput_Chivalry" id="Rajput_Chivalry"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Rajput Chivalry</big></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>The chivalry of the Rajput and the influence of the fair in the formation of rajput character is depicted here. It is taken from the annals of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaisalmer" title="Jaisalmer">Jaisalmer</a>, the most remote of the States of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a>, and situated in the heart of the desert, of which it is an oasis.<br /><br />Rao Raningdeo <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a> was lord of Pugal, a fief of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaisalmer" title="Jaisalmer">Jaisalmer</a>. His heir, named Sadhu <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a>, was the terror of the desert, carrying his raids even to the valley of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indus" title="Indus">Indus</a>, and on the east to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nagore" title="Nagore">Nagore</a>. Returning from a foray, with a train of captured camels and horses he passed by Aurint where dwelt Manik Rao, the chief of the Mohils, whose rule extended over 1140 villages. <span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/86/251248130_8d00b59678_o.jpg" style="width: 1024px; height: 1047px;" /><br /></big> <div style="text-align: left; font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>The historical city of <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaisalmer" title="Jaisalmer">Jaisalmer</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> was founded by the </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> clan of Rajputs.</span></small></small></div> <big><br /></big><big>Being invited to partake of the hospitality or the Mohil, the heir of Pugal attracted the favourable regards of the old chieftain's daughter. She loved him for the dangers he had passed. Although betrothed to the heir of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> of Mundore, she signified her wish to renounce the throne to be the bride of the chieftain of Pugal; and in spite of the dangers he provoked, and contrary to the Mohil chief's advice, Sadhu, as a gallant rajput, dared not reject the overture, and he promised "to accept the coco (Sriphala)" if sent in form to Pugal. In due time it came, and the nuptials were solemnized at Aurint. The dower was splendid; gems of high price, vessels of gold and silver, a golden bull, and a train of thirteen dewadharis (lamp holders).<br /><br /></big><big>Arankanwal (Aranya means waste in Sanskrit, Kamal is Lotus), the slighted heir of Mandore, determined on revenge, and with four thousand <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a>s planted himself in the path of Sadhu's return, aided by the Sankhla Mehraj, whose son Sadhu had slain. Though entreated to add four thousand Mohils to his escort, Sadhu deemed his own gallant band of seven hundred <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a>s sufficient to convey his bride to his desert abode, and with difficulty accepted fifty, led by Meghraj, the brother of the bride.<br /><br /></big></div> <big><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/96/245774371_e1b4683e22_o.jpg" style="width: 550px; height: 452px;" /><br /><small><small><small> Panchkalyan Marwari Horse.</small></small></small><br /><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>The rivals encountered at Chondan, where Sadhu had halted to repose; but the brave <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> scorned the advantage of numbers, and a series of single combats ensued, with all the forms of chivalry. The first who entered the lists was Jeytanga, of the Pahoo clan, a kin of Sadhu. The Rathores came upon him by surprise while he was reposing on the ground, his saddle-cloth for his couch, and the bridle of his steed twisted round his arm. He was soon recognized by the Sankhla, who had often encountered his prowess, on which he expatiated to Arankanwal, who sent an attendant to awake him; but the gallant Panchkalyan (for such was the name of his steed. Panchkalyan is a chestnut with four white legs and a white nose) had already performed this service, and they found him upbraiding white legs for treading upon him.<br /><br />Like a true Rajput, </big><big>Jeytanga</big><big> received the hostile message, and sent the envoy back with his compliments, and a request for some amal or Opium, as he had lost his own supply. With all courtesy this was sent, and prepared by the domestics of his antagonist; after taking which he lay down to enjoy the customary siesta. As soon as he awoke, he prepared for the combat, girt on his armour, and having reminded Panch Kalyan of the fields he had won, and telling him to bear him well that day, he mounted and advanced.<br /><br />The son of Chonda, Arankanwal, admiring his sangfroid, and the address with which he guided his steed, commanded Jodha Chauhan, the leader of his party, to encounter the Pahu <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a>. "Their two-edged swords soon clashed in combat"; but the gigantic Chauhan fell beneath the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a>, who, warmed with the fight, plunged amidst his foes, encountering all he deemed worthy of his assault.<br /><br />The fray thus begun, single combats and actions of equal parties followed, the rivals looking on. At length Sadhu mounted: twice he charged the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> ranks, carrying death on his lance; each time he returned for the applause of his bride, who beheld the battle from her palki (palanquin). Six hundred of his foes had fallen, and nearly half his own warriors. He bade her a last adieu, while she exhorted him to the fight, saying, "she would witness his deeds, and if he fell, would follow him even in death." Now he singled out his rival Arankanwal who was alike eager to end the strife and blot out his disgrace in his blood. They met: some seconds were lost in a courteous contention, each yielding to his rival the first blow, at length dealt out by Sadhu on the neck of the disappointed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a>. It was returned with the rapidity of lightning, and the daughter of the Mohil saw the steel descend on the head of her lover. Both fell prostrate to the earth: but Sadhu's soul had sped; the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> had only swooned.<br /><br />With the fall of the leaders the battle ceased; and the fair cause of strife, Karamdevi, at once a virgin, a wife, and a widow, prepared to follow her affianced. The pile was prepared on the field of battle; and taking her lord in her embrace, she gave herself up to the devouring flames. The old <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a>, Rao of Pugal, had a tank excavated on this spot for her putravadhu (daughter-in-law), which is still called after the heroine, "the lake of Karamdevi."<br /><br /></big></div> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Jaisalmer_cenotaphs.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://www.columbia.edu/itc/mealac/pritchett/00routesdata/1400_1499/rajputforts/jaisalmer_cenotaphs/barabagh2.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 453px; height: 600px;" /></a><a href="image:Jaisalmer_cenotaphs.jpg" class="internal" title="Cenotaphs of Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer"><br /></a> </big> <div style="text-align: left; font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Cenotaphs of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati">Bhati</a> Rajputs of Jaisalmer</small></small></div> </div> </div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>This encounter took place in Samvat 1402, A.D. 1406. The brunt of the battle fell on the Sankhlas, and only twenty-five out of three hundred and fifty left the field with their leader, Mehraj, himself severely wounded. The rejected Lover had four brothers dangerously hurt; and in six months the wounds of Arankanwal opened afresh and he died, and the rites to the manes of these rivals in love, the chaumasa of Sadhu, and the duadasa of Arankanwal were celebrated on the same day. </big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Rajput_Armies" id="Rajput_Armies"></a></big></p> <h2><big>Rajput Armies</big></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Predominantly consisted of cavalry. They bred high quality horses, such as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwari_horse" title="Marwari horse">Marwari</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kathiawari" title="Kathiawari">Kathiawari</a>. Rajputs fought with cocked wrist and rarely used the tip of the sword to inflict a wound. Sirohi sword was very well liked by rajput. Padmanabh, in his <span style="font-style: italic;">Kanhadade-Prabandh</span>, describes Rajput warriors:<br /></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big> They bathed the horses in the sacred water of Ganga. Then they offered them Kamal Puja. On their backs they put with sandal the impressions of their hands... They put over them five types of armour, namely, war armour, saddles acting as armour, armour in the form of plates, steel armour, and armour woven out of cotton. Now what was the type of Kshatriyas who rode these horses? Those, who were above twenty-five and less than fifty in age,... shot arrows with speed and were the most heroic. (Their) moustaches went up to their ears, and beards reached the navel. They were liberal and warlike. Their thoughts were good ... They regarded wives of others as their sisters. They stood firm in battle, and struck after first challenging the enemy. They died after having killed first. They donned and used (all the) sixty-six weapons. If any one (of the enemy ranks) fell down they regarded the fallen person as a corpse and saluted it.</big></blockquote> </div> <p><big><a name="Rajputs_and_Invasions_of_India" id="Rajputs_and_Invasions_of_India"></a></big></p> <h2><big>Rajputs and Invasions of India</big></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>The Rajputs suffered the brunt of the aggression from various <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongol" title="Mongol">Mongol</a>-<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkic" title="Turkic">Turkic</a>-<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghan" title="Afghan">Afghan</a> warlords who repeatedly invaded the Indian subcontinent, then known as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindustan" title="Hindustan">Hindustan</a>. Hindustan was one of the most economically prosperous regions in the world till 18-th century and had grabbed the attention of several neighbouring <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic" title="Islamic">Islamic</a> kingdoms.</big></p> <p><big><a name="Organization_of_Indian_kingdoms_during_invasions" id="Organization_of_Indian_kingdoms_during_invasions"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Organization of Indian kingdoms during invasions<br /></big></h3> <h2><big><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/0/09/Rajputana_1909.jpg" style="width: 1000px; height: 831px;" /><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small><small><small><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajputana" title="Rajputana">Rajputana</a> Agency and Ajmer-Merwara province, 1909</small></small></small></small><br /></div> </h2> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Wilson_Hunter">William Wilson Hunter</a> describes in Chapter X of his book, <i>The Indian Empire, Its People, History And Products</i>, the organization of Indian kings and how they fought these invaders.</big></p> <dl style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big><dd><big>Within a hundred years after his (Muhammad's) death, his followers had invaded the countries of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia" title="Asia">Asia</a> as far as the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_Kush" title="Hindu Kush">Hindu Kush</a>. Here there progress was stayed and Islam had to consolidate itself during three more centuries before it grew strong enough to grasp the rich prize of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>. But almost from first the Arabs had fixed eager eyes upon that wealthy country. Fifteen years after the death of prophet, Usman sent a sea expedition to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thana" title="Thana">Thana</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broach" title="Broach">Broach</a> on the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bombay" title="Bombay">Bombay</a> coast (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/647" title="647">647</a> ? AD). Other raids towards <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh" title="Sindh">Sindh</a> took place in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/662" title="662">662</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/664" title="664">664</a> with no results.</big></dd><big> </big></dl> <dl style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big><dd><big>The armies of Islam had carried the crescent from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_Kush" title="Hindu Kush">Hindu Kush</a> westwards, through <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia" title="Asia">Asia</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Africa" title="Africa">Africa</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_Europe" title="Southern Europe">Southern Europe</a>, to distant <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spain" title="Spain">Spain</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaul" title="Gaul">Gaul</a>, before they obtained a foothold in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjab" title="Punjab">Punjab</a>. This long delay was due, not only to the daring of individual tribes, such as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh" title="Sindh">Sindh</a> Rajputs, just mentioned but to the military organization of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> Kingdoms.</big></dd><big> </big></dl> <dl style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big><dd><big>Each of these groups of kingdoms, alike in the north and in the south, had a certain power of coherence to oppose to a foreign invader; while the large number of groups and units rendered conquest a very tedious process. For even when the overlord or central authority was vanquished, the separate units had to be defeated in detail, and each state supplied a nucleus for subsequent revolt. We have seen how the brilliant attempt in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/711" title="711">711</a>, to found a lasting Muhammedan dynasty in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh" title="Sindh">Sindh</a>, failed. Three centuries later, the utmost efforts of two great Musalman invaders (<i>Mahmud of Ghazni and Mohammed Ghori</i>) from the north-west only succeeded in annexing a small portion of the frontier <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjab" title="Punjab">Punjab</a> Province between <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/977" title="977">977</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1176" title="1176">1176</a> A.D. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> power in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southern_India" title="Southern India">Southern India</a> was not completely broken till the battle of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talikot" title="Talikot">Talikot</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1565" title="1565">1565</a>; and within a hundred years, in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1650" title="1650">1650</a>, the great Hindu revival had commenced which under the form of Maratha confederacy, was destined to break up the Mughal Empire in India. That Empire, even in the north of India, had only been consolidated by Akbar's policy of incorporating Hindu chiefs into his government(<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1556" title="1556">1556</a>-<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1605" title="1605">1605</a>). Up to Akbar's time, and even during the earlier years of his reign a series of Rajput wars had challenged the Muhammadan supremacy. In less than two centuries after his death, the successor of Akbar was a puppet in the hand of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maratha" title="Maratha">marathas</a> at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>.</big></dd><big> </big></dl> <dl style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big><dd><big>The popular notion that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> fell an easy prey to the Musalmans is opposed to the historical facts. Muhammadan rule in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> consists of a series of invasions and partial conquests, during eleven centuries, from Usman's raid, <i>circ</i>.647, to Ahmad Shah's tempest of invasion in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1761" title="1761">1761</a> A.D.</big></dd><big> </big></dl> <dl><big> </big><dd style="text-align: justify;"><big>At no time was Islam triumphant throughout the whole of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> dynasties always ruled over large areas. At the height of the Muhammadan power, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">hindu</a> princes paid tribute, and sent agents to the Imperial court. But even this modified supremacy of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a> lasted for little over a century (1578-1707). Before the end of that brief period the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindus</a> had begun the work of reconquest. The native chivalry of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajputana" title="Rajputana">Rajputana</a> was closing in upon <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a> from the south; the religious confederation of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikh" title="Sikh">Sikhs</a> was growing into a military power on the north-west. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maratha" title="Maratha">Marathas</a> had combined the fighting powers of the low-castes with the statesmen ship of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahman" title="Brahman">Brahmans</a>, and were subjecting the Muhammadan kingdoms throughout all <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> to tribute. So far as can now be estimated, the advance of the English power at the beginning of the present century alone saved the Mughal Empire from passing to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindus</a>.</big></dd><big> </big></dl> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Corroborating Hunter, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jahangir">Jahangir</a>, son of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar">Akbar</a>, bemoans in his memoirs (<span style="font-style: italic;">Memoirs of the Emperor Jahangueir written by himself</span>, trans. David Price, Oriental Translation Committee, London 1829: republished Calcutta 1904.):<br /><blockquote>And here I am compelled to observe, with whatever regret, that notwithstanding the frequent and sanguinary executions which have been dealt among the people of Hindustan, the number of turbulent and disaffected never seems to diminish; for what with the examples made during the reign of my father, and subsequently of my own, there is scarcely a province in the empire [there were about 14 <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/subah"><span style="font-style: italic;">subahs</span> </a>at the time] in which .... in battle ..... five and six hundred thousand human beings have not, at various periods fallen victims to this fatal disposition to discontent and turbulence. Ever and anon, in one quarter or another, will some accursed miscreant spring up to unfurl the standard of rebellion; so that in Hindustan never has there existed a period of complete repose.</blockquote> </big><big>This excerpt from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jahangir">Jahangir</a> shows very clearly that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim">Muslims</a>, including <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar">Akbar</a>, were always considered alien invaders by rajputs and other <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu">Hindus</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India">India</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermann_Kulke">Professor Herman Kulke</a> in his book "<span style="font-style: italic;">A History of India</span>, <b>ISBN:</b> 0415154820, <b>Publisher:</b> Routledge; 3rd edition (March 1998)" records:<br /></big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big>Ala-ud-din was also quite realistic when he mentioned that his order would be obeyed only upto a distance of about 100 miles from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi">Delhi</a>; beyond that limit military intervention was required if he wanted to impose his will on the people.<br /></big></blockquote> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>This shows that even at the height of power, Khilji barely controlled the outskirts of Delhi and rest of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India">India</a> was not under his control. Hunter and Kulke capture the conditions in India at the time of invasions quite well. Kulke's excerpt also explains the high density of Muslim population in capitals of Muslim rulers, like <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyderabad">Hyderabad</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rampur">Rampur</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucknow">Lucknow</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi">Delhi</a> etc because in areas where there orders were accepted the Muslim rulers tried to convert as many Hindus as they could by sword, Jiziya or religious persecution (by breaking Hindu temples and psychologically pushing the Hindus into believing that there's was a weak God). For details on how Jiziya was used as a weapon to do conversions please scroll below and see the section on Protection of Hinduism. </big></div> <p><big><a name="Partial_list_of_Rajputs_who_fought_the_invaders" id="Partial_list_of_Rajputs_who_fought_the_invaders"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Partial list of Rajputs who fought the invaders</big></h3> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bappa Rawal</span><br /></big> <p><big><a name="Bappa_Rawal" id="Bappa_Rawal"></a></big></p> <h4 bappa="" rawal=""><big> </big></h4> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/71/Chittorgarh.jpg" style="width: 703px; height: 477px;" /><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittorgarh" title="Chittorgarh">Chittorgarh</a> fort in Rajasthan was the site of several battles between the Rajputs and the Islamic invaders.</small></small></div> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br />Muslims started attacking India within a few decades of the birth of Islam. For a few hundred years they had no success. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Qasim" title="Muhammad bin Qasim">Mohammed Bin Qasim</a> was able to defeat <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dahir" title="Dahir">Dahir</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh" title="Sindh">Sindh</a> but was routed by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bappa_Rawal" title="Bappa Rawal">Bappa Rawal</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Qasim" title="Muhammad bin Qasim">Qasim</a> attacked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittore" title="Chittore">Chittore</a>, which was ruled by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mori" title="Mori">Mori</a> Rajputs, via <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mathura" title="Mathura">Mathura</a>. Bappa, of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guhilote" title="Guhilote">guhilote</a> dynasty, was a commander in Mori army and so was Dahir's son. Bappa defeated and pursued <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Qasim" title="Muhammad bin Qasim">Bin Qasim</a> through <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saurashtra" title="Saurashtra">Saurashtra</a> and back to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh" title="Sindh">Sindh</a>. After this resounding defeat of the caliphate at the hands of Bappa in 712 A.D., Sindh mulsims paid tribute to Hindu rajputs. (note Muslim historians rarely recorded the defeats of their kings).<br /></big></div> <big><br />Then <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahmud_of_Ghazni" title="Mahmud of Ghazni">Mahmud</a> started his raids and was successful in looting <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somnath" title="Somnath">Somnath</a>.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Prithviraj Chauhan</span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></big> <p><big><a name="Prithviraj_Chauhan" id="Prithviraj_Chauhan"></a></big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Prithviraj Chauhan was born at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajmer">Ajaymeru</a> (Ajmer) in 1166 A.D. His father was Someshwar Chauhan and mother Karpuri Devi, a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalachuri">Kalachuri</a> (Chedi) princess, daughter of Achalaraja of Tripuri.</big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Muhammad Ghori</a> attacked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> multiple times. First time he was routed in present day <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a> by Rajputs. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mularaja" title="Mularaja">Mularaja</a>-II was not even a teen yet and his mother organized the defences of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattan" title="Pattan">Pattan</a>. Battle was fought at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kayadara" title="Kayadara">Kayadara</a> near <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Abu" title="Mount Abu">Mount Abu</a>, in 1178 A.D. and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> was resoundingly defeated. After this defeat he never entered <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> through <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a>. In first battle of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taraori" title="Taraori">Taraori</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1191" title="1191">1191</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prithviraj_Chauhan" title="Prithviraj Chauhan">Prithviraj Chauhan</a>'s cavalry charged and routed the Ghurid cavalry and captured <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> begged for his life. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prithviraj" title="Prithviraj">Prithviraj</a> allowed him to go despite his generals asking him not to do so.<br /></big></p> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://www.collectbritain.com/mediastore/019/015/019PHO000001003U01527000%5BSVC2%5D.JPG" style="width: 712px; height: 588px;" /><a href="image:taragarh.jpg" class="internal" title="Prithviraj lived at Taragarh fort which was also known as Ajaymeru after which the town of Ajmer got its name. "><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Prithviraj Chauhan lived at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taragarh" title="Taragarh">Taragarh</a> fort which was also known as Ajaymeru after which the town of Ajmer got its name.</small></small></div> </div> </div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Following year <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> came again. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prithviraj" title="Prithviraj">Prithviraj</a> advanced with his army and sent a letter to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a>. In this letter <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> was asked to return as he had been defeated the previous year and was spared his life. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> replied that he was in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> on the orders of his brother, Ghiasuddin, and that he could only retreat after he got a word from his brother. This letter was sent in the evening and after sending the letter <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> moved his camp back a few kilometers to feign retreat. On receiving this letter and seeing <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Muhammad</a> move his camp back <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prithviraj" title="Prithviraj">Prithviraj</a> assumed that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> was not interested in fighting. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_Ghori" title="Muhammad Ghori">Ghori</a> also knew that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajputs" title="Rajputs">rajputs</a> did not fight in the night and only started fighting after sun had come up. (This is an ancient <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya" title="Kshatriya">Kshatriya</a> practice e.g <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata" title="Mahabharata">Mahabharata</a> was also fought mostly in day time). Ghori treacherously attacked in the early morning hours when <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prithviraj" title="Prithviraj">Prithviraj</a> and his army were sleeping and was able to win this war. </big></div> <p><big><a name="Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" id="Hammir_Dev_Chauhan"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Hammir Dev Chauhan<br /></span></big> <div class="thumb tleft"><big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prithviraj_Chauhan" title="Prithviraj Chauhan">Prithviraj Chauhan's</a> descendant, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir Dev Chauhan</a> ruled Ranasthambpur (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranthambore" title="Ranthambore">Ranthambore</a>).</big><br /></div> <big><br /></big> <div style="width: 202px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://www.columbia.edu/itc/mealac/pritchett/00routesdata/1400_1499/rajputforts/ranthambhore/ranthambhore.jpg" style="width: 1535px; height: 649px;" /><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Ranthambore fort of Hada Chauhan dynasty</small></small></div> </div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore" title="Jalore">Jalore</a> was ruled by another branch of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhans</a>, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Songara" title="Songara">Songaras</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Ala ud din Khilji</a> usurped <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a> from his father-in-law, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalal_ud_din_Firuz_Khilji" title="Jalal ud din Firuz Khilji">Jalal-ud-din Khilji</a>, by killing him in cold blood. In <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1299" title="1299">1299</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Ala ud din</a>'s <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mongol" title="Mongol">mongol</a> general Ulugh Khan sought to quell <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> resistance in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a> and besieged <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junagadh" title="Junagadh">Junagadh</a> and sacked the temple at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somnath" title="Somnath">Somnath</a>. Ulugh Khan had broken the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivalinga" title="Shivalinga">Shivalinga</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somnath" title="Somnath">Somnath</a> and was carrying it back to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanhad_Dev_Songara" title="Kanhad Dev Songara">Kanhad Dev Songara</a>, ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore" title="Jalore">Jalore</a>, attacked and defeated Ulugh Khan. His son <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biramdeo" title="Biramdeo">Biramdeo</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaitra" title="Jaitra">Jaitra</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deora" title="Deora">Deora</a> were the generals who commandeered Kanhad Dev's army. They captured the fragments of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivalinga" title="Shivalinga">Shivalinga</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanhad_Dev_Songara" title="Kanhad Dev Songara">Kanhad</a> had the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivalinga" title="Shivalinga">Shivalinga</a> washed in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganga" title="Ganga">Gangajal</a> and had the fragments placed at various <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shiva" title="Shiva">Shiva</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple" title="Temple">temples</a> around <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore" title="Jalore">Jalore</a>.<br /></big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>One of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Ala ud din</a>'s generals was a neo-Muslim, Muhammad Shah, who had helped <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanhad_Dev_Songara" title="Kanhad Dev Songara">Kanhad Dev</a>. This general later went and stayed with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir Deo</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranthambore" title="Ranthambore">Ranthambore</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Ala ud din</a> wanted him dead, and asked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> to hand him over. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> replied that he knows how to draw his sword, and anyone who has taken shelter in his fort would not be turned over. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> did not consider <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> king of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Ala ud din</a> attacked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranthambore" title="Ranthambore">Ranthambore</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1299" title="1299">1299</a>, but his armies consisting of 80,000 cavalry, led by generals Ulugh Khan and Nusrat Khan, were badly defeated. Nusrat Khan was killed by rajputs in this campaign.<br /></big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Khilji finally came himself in 1301 A.D., and there was a long siege. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> was very well prepared. When the fort did not fall after repeated bloody skirmishes <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a>, tired of living in an insect infested swamp for seven months (land outside Ranasthambpur fort is marshy), resorted to diplomacy.<br /></big></p> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/33/47201896_f6c0b84406_o.jpg" style="width: 1200px; height: 286px;" /><a href="image:Battle_field.jpg" class="internal" title="Battle_field"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Marshy Battle Field below Ranthambore Fort. </small></small></div> </div> </div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> was very suspicious but he heeded to his councilors who told him that sword is not always the best recourse. Ratipal and Ranmal, who were close confidants of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a>, were sent to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> camp. Ranmal's father was hung by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> for treachery and his property was confiscated. Ranmal earned the trust of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> by being brave in battles that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a> fought but perfidy was in his blood. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> bribed these two generals of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammir_Dev_Chauhan" title="Hammir Dev Chauhan">Hammir</a>'s army and consequently <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranthambore" title="Ranthambore">Ranthambore</a> fell.<br /><br /></big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Cenotaph.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://www.4to40.com/images/discoverindia/places/mewat/rao_hammir_deo_chauhan_cenotaph_ranthambhor_fort.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 200px; height: 145px;" /></a><a href="image:Cenotaph.jpg" class="internal" title="Cenotaph"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><big><small><small><small><small>Cenotaph of Hammir Dev Chauhan at Ranthambore Fort.</small></small></small></small><br /></big></div> </div> </div> <big><br />Every Rajput and Indian takes pride in reciting the couplet extolling the bravery and uprightness of Hammir:<br /></big> <blockquote><big>िसंह-सवन सत्पुरुष-वचन कदलन फलत इक बार।<br />ितिरया-तेल हम्मीर-हठ चढे न दूजी बार॥<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">(English translation:)<br /></span></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><span style="font-size:85%;">A lioness gives birth to a cub only once; once alone is the word of a good man given; once only does a plantain bear fruit; a woman is anointed only once with oil for marriage; and once alone did Hammira give his irrevocable promise.</span><br /></big></div> <big> </big></blockquote> <p><big><a name="Rawal_Ratan_Singh.2CGora.2CBadal" id="Rawal_Ratan_Singh.2CGora.2CBadal"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rawal Ratan Singh, Gora, Badal<br /><br /></span></big> <div class="thumb tright"> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/121/261553174_73406c01c7_o.jpg" style="width: 712px; height: 595px;" /></span><br /></big> <div class="thumbcaption"><big><small><small><small>Palace of Maharani Padmini</small></small></small><br /></big></div> </div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> wanted to win <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> because <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sisodiya" title="Sisodiya">Sisodiyas</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> never accepted the rule of Islam. Another reason was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rani_Padmini" title="Rani Padmini">Rani Padmini</a>. He laid a siege in 1302 A.D. but <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> would not fall. Then he requested <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rawal_Ratan_Singh" title="Rawal Ratan Singh">Rawal Ratan Singh</a>, husband of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rani_Padmini" title="Rani Padmini">Rani Padmini</a>, that if he is allowed a glimpse of Rani he would leave. By this time the situation inside the fort was getting bad. Rawal discussed this with his advisers and they agreed that they can show Padmini's face in a mirror to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">sultan</a>. The meeting took place and afterwards out of courtesy when Ratan Singh was walking <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> out of the palace, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a>'s men captured <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rawal_Ratan_Singh" title="Rawal Ratan Singh">Rawal Ratan Singh</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> sent a message to the fort that Rawal can be spared by exchanging <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rani_Padmini" title="Rani Padmini">Rani Padmini</a>. Padmini discussed this with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gora" title="Gora">Gora</a>, her maternal uncle, who was a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhan</a> rajput.<br /></big></p> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://www.shunya.net/Pictures/Rajasthan/Chittor/FortExitway.jpg" style="width: 900px; height: 598px;" /><a href="image:Battle_field.jpg" class="internal" title="Battle_field"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Battle Field below Chittor Fort. </small></small></div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Gora told her not to worry and that he would go and bring back <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rawal_Ratan_Singh" title="Rawal Ratan Singh">Rawal Ratan Singh</a>. Padmini's nephew <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Badal" title="Badal">Badal</a> who was just sixteen also assured her. A message was sent from the fort to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> that Padmini would come with 700 of her servants in "palanquins" (palki in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindi" title="Hindi">hindi</a>) and that no Muslim soldier should peek inside the palki to outrage the modesty of the women. Letter also said that before <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rani_Padmini" title="Rani Padmini">Padmini</a> meets <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> she would like to talk to Rawal. Khilji agreed. All the palki's had the best rajput warriors with two swords each.<br /></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>When Padmini's palki, which was occupied by Gora, reached Rawal's tent he asked Rawal to mount the horse and go back to the fort. Then Gora gave a signal and every rajput came out of the palki and attacked the Muslims who were cut to pieces. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gora" title="Gora">Gora</a> reached <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a>'s tent and was about to kill the sultan when <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a> moved his concubine in front of himself. Gora, being a rajput could not kill an innocent women and these few seconds were enough for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Khilji</a>'s guards to kill Gora from behind.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Khilji and his forces lost heart and retreated back to Delhi.<br /></big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Maharana_Hammir" id="Maharana_Hammir"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Maharana Hammir</span><br /><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><img alt="" src="file:///Users/kunwar/Documents/lake_p.jpg" style="width: 677px; height: 437px;" /><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Jag Niwas, the summer abode of the Ranas of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>, in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udaipur" title="Udaipur">Udaipur</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a></small></small></div><br /><big>After Ratan Singh's death his successor <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laxman_Singh" title="Laxman Singh">Laxman Singh</a> tried to capture <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> and fought a battle with Tughlaq near <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a>. He died along with his son Ari. His second son Ajay was severely wounded but was taken away from the battlefield by other soldiers and survived. Ajay was not a powerful ruler and his sons were likewise. Ajay knew that Ari had a son <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> and he called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> to come to him.<br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a>, along with his mother came to see his uncle. Ajay said that he had grown weak and a dacoit, Munja Balicha, was wreaking havoc in Rawal Ajay's domain. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> vowed that he would take care of Munja.<br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> took seven warriors with him and set out to finish Munja. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> at this stage was just a teenager. Munja was tracked. When Munja was riding with his band to plunder a village, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> stood in his way on his white steed. Munja asked him to leave the way or die. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> challenged him to a duel and seeing that Hammir was just a teenager Munja readily agreed. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> killed Munja and brought his head and put it at Rawal Ajay's feet and told his uncle that Munja will never be a problem again.</big><big> Rawal Ajay realized Hammir should be the ruler and he coronated Hammir as the new ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>. Ajay's sons were unhappy with this and decided to move to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharashtra" title="Maharashtra">Maharashtra</a>. Do note that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> was called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khijarabad" title="Khijarabad">Khijarabad</a> at this time as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ala_ud_din_Khilji" title="Ala ud din Khilji">Ala ud din</a> had renamed it after his son and at Hammir's coronation was ruled by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Tughluq" title="Muhammad bin Tughluq">Muhammad bin Tughlaq</a>.<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Hammir captured <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Tughluq" title="Muhammad bin Tughluq">Tughlaq</a> became very unhappy and launched a massive campaign against Hammir which he led himself. Hammir knew as soon as he captured <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Tughluq" title="Muhammad bin Tughluq">Tughlaq</a> would attack him. He rallied all nearby rajput states to join him and they did. Battle was fought and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Tughluq" title="Muhammad bin Tughluq">Tughlaq</a> was badly defeated and captured. After Tughlaq paid a hefty fees and surrendered all of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>'s territory he was let go. After this defeat <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a> was never attacked by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_bin_Tughluq" title="Muhammad bin Tughluq">Tughlaq</a>.</big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Maharana_Kumbha" id="Maharana_Kumbha"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Maharana Kumbha<br /><br /></span></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Maharana Kumbha was the eldest son of Rana Mokal by his <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parmar">Parmar</a> Queen, Sobhagya Devi, daughter of Jaitmal Sankhla, and thus united in himself the fine qualities of these two royal races of India, the culture of one and the chivalry of the other. Maharana Kumbha ascended the throne of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar">Mewar</a> in A.D. 1433 in the renowned fortress of Chittor, and ruled till A.D. 1488, a period of nearly 35 years, which was one of the most prosperous and important in the history of Mewar. </big><br /></div><br /><div style="width: 202px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/93/251193896_5b61fe802a_b.jpg" style="width: 1024px; height: 526px;" /></span><a href="image:kumbhal.jpg" class="internal" title="Kumbhalgarh fort built by Maharana Kumbha"><br /></a> </big> <div class="thumbcaption"><big><small><small><small>Kumbhalgarh fort built by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Kumbha" title="Maharana Kumbha">Maharana Kumbha</a>. Perimeter wall is 20 miles long. Six horses could ride simultaneously on the fort ramparts.</small></small></small><br /></big></div> </div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>The capture of Nagor in A.D. 1435 by Maharana Kumbha brought Sultan Qutbud-din of Gujarat into the field against him. With the Sultan of Malwa, the Maharana had come into collision in the early part of his reign. These two kingdoms, the most powerful Mussalman principalities in India at the time were defeated singly by the Maharana. These two Mohammedan kingdoms combined and simultaneously invaded Mewar from the west and the south; but Kumbha, supported by the chivalry of Mewar and inspired by the patriotic valour of the Guhilot Rajputs, vanquished them both. Maharana Kumbha repeatedly defeated sultans of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malwa" title="Malwa">Malwa</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a> and built 32 forts in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a>. Even the combined armies of sultans of Malwa and Gujarat could not beat Kumbha. To commemorate his victory over these Muslim rulers, Maharana Kumbha built the victory tower in 1440 A.D.<br /><br />The tower has nine-stories and is covered with exquisite sculptures of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> Gods and Goddesses depicting episodes from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramayana" title="Ramayana">Ramayana</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata" title="Mahabharata">Mahabharata</a>.<br /></big></div> <big><br /></big> <div class="thumb tleft"> <div style="width: 202px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://www.confluence.org/in/all/n25e075/pic9.jpg" style="width: 480px; height: 640px;" /><a href="image:Vijay_Sthamb.jpg" class="internal" title="Vijay Sthamb (Victory Tower) built by Maharana Kumbha"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Vijay Sthamb (Victory Tower) built by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Kumbha" title="Maharana Kumbha">Maharana Kumbha</a></small></small></div> </div> </div> <p><big><a name="Rana_Sanga" id="Rana_Sanga"></a></big></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;"><big>Rana Sanga</big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>In Kumbha's lineage was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Rana Sangram Singh</a> or Sanga. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ibrahim_Lodi" title="Ibrahim Lodi">Ibrahim Lodi</a>, ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>, in his expansionary plans to south of Delhi attacked Gwalior and was defeated by Man Singh <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomar" title="Tomar">Tomar</a> but being a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kshatriya" title="Kshatriya">Kshatriya</a>, Man Singh out of magnanimity let Ibrahim go back to Delhi. Lodhi also attacked Rajputana multiple times and Rana Sanga defeated his every attack. Man Singh's descendants fought at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haldighati" title="Haldighati">Haldighati</a> along with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> against <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> and showed exemplary bravery<span style="font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);"><span style="">. </span></span></span>Lodi was defeated by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a> later. Now <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a> was having sleepless nights because of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Sanga</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a> sent about 1500 choice cavalry to attack <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Sanga</a>. These were butchered by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Sanga</a>'s rajputs.<br /></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>This struck mortal fear in the heart of Babur and his forces were completely demoralized. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a> wanted to discuss the terms of his surrender. For discussions <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Sanga</a> sent his general <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silhadi" title="Silhadi">Silhadi</a> (Shiladitya). Babur agreed to pay a tribute to the Maharana and it was also decided that Peela Khal would be the border between Sanga's domain and Babur.<br /><br /></big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/109/300036031_17b8abb56c_o.jpg" style="width: 1050px; height: 437px;" /></span><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittorgarh" title="Chittorgarh">Chittorgarh</a> fort in Rajasthan was the home of Sisodiya clan of Rajputs and was also the site of several battles between the Rajputs and the Islamic invaders.</small></small></div> </div> <big><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a> had treachery all along in his heart and he won Silhadi by promising him an independent kingdom (Silhadi eventually became ruler of Raisen, just east of Bhopal). <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silhadi" title="Silhadi">Silhadi</a> came back and reported that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a> does not want peace and he wants to fight. Fight started at Khanua in March 1527 A.D. and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a>'s army was being knocked out of the field and victory was certain for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Sanga</a>. At this juncture <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silhadi" title="Silhadi">Silhadi</a>, who led the herole i.e the vanguard (the most important piece of the formation is herole or van because this force delivers the knock out punch), and his army just left the field and this tilted the war in favor of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a> and he won. </big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" id="Rao_Maldeo_Rathore"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Rao Maldeo Rathore<br /><br /></span></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humayun" title="Humayun">Humayun</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Babur" title="Babur">Babur</a>'s son was defeated by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah Suri</a>, a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pathan" title="Pathan">Pathan</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humayun" title="Humayun">Humayun</a> was forced to leave <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> and he took refuge with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safavid" title="Safavid">Safavid</a> king of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Persia" title="Persia">Persia</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a> became ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sesodias" title="Sesodias">Sesodias</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a> had not yet recovered from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Rana Sanga</a>'s treacherous defeat. In <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a> the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a> were becoming very powerful. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> king <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Rao Maldeo</a> had extended his territory to within a couple of hundred kilometers of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a> attacked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a> came with a force of 40 thousand and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a> had 60 thousand. In the evening <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a> sent forged letters to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a>'s camp. In these letters it was stated that few generals from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a>'s army were buying arms from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a>'s army. This caused great consternation in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a> who thought there was treachery and that some of his generals had crossed over to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a> left with 20 thousand men.<br /><br /></big> <div class="thumb tright"> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5b/Mehrangarh_Fort.jpg" style="width: 677px; height: 508px;" /></span><br /></big> <div class="thumbcaption"> <div style="text-align: left; font-weight: bold;"><small><small><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehrangarh_Fort" title="Mehrangarh Fort">Mehrangarh Fort</a>, Home of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> rulers of (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>)</small></small></div> </div> </div> </div> <big><br /></big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>In reality there was no treachery. Later when <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a>'s generals Kumpa (his progeny are <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumpawat" title="Kumpawat">Kumpawat</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a>) and Jaita (his progeny are <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaitawat" title="Jaitawat">Jaitawat</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a>) found out what happened they did not loose cool and decided they would not leave the field even though they just had 20 thousand men and had to face 60 thousand <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pathan" title="Pathan">Pathans</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a>.<br /><br />Finally battle of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sammel" title="Sammel">Sammel</a> was fought on a cold morning of January 5th 1544 A.D. and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a> was shocked by what he saw. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a>'s top generals lost there lives and his army suffered heavy losses. After this <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a> commented that "for a few grains of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bajra" title="Bajra">bajra</a> [a grain crop that grows in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a>] he had almost lost the entire kingdom of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>". It is a moot point now but had <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Maldeo_Rathore" title="Rao Maldeo Rathore">Maldeo</a> not retreated because of the fake letter, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a>/Rajputs would have defeated <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a>.<br /><br />In my bhoomi (Rajasthan) <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deora" title="Deora">Deoras</a> are considered the most stubborn, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hada" title="Hada">Hadas</a> the most brave and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a> the invincible warriors on the battlefield (Ranbanka <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a>).</big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Maharani_Durgavati" id="Maharani_Durgavati"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Maharani Durgavati<br /></span></big> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Maharani Durgavati was a Chandel rajputani. She was born at the Kalinjar fort, Banda, Uttar Pradesh. Chandel rajputs were the builders of the beautiful city of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khajurao">Khajurao</a> which had 85 magnificient temples of which 22 still survive.<br /></big></p> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/117/280688081_29d6ebac25_o.jpg" style="width: 998px; height: 666px;" /><a href="image:Khajurao_Temple.jpg" class="internal" title="Khajurao Temple"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Khajurao Temples were built by Chandel Rajputs. </small></small></div> </div> </div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>She inherited the Gond Kingdom after her husband, Dalpat Shah, died in 1550 A.D. Her son, Bir Narayan was an infant and Rani Durgavati ruled the kingdom of Gond. Baj Bhadur after ascending the throne of Malwa in 1556 A.D., attacked the Gond kingdom but his army was routed. His defeat was so decisive that he never dared attack Rani Durgavati's kingdom ever again.<br /><br />Akbar decided to invade Rani's kingdom and sent a cavalry of 50,000 with heavy artillery, under the command of Abdul Mazid Khan. Rani Durgavati organized her defences at a valley near Narrai (Madhya Pradesh). Her forces were flanked by hills on one side and the rivers Narmada and Gaur on the other. When Muslim forces entered from both sides of the valley, Rani's small army, which she was leading herself, fought with exemplary bravery and pushed back Mughals on both sides. Rani's army emerged victorious. During night time, her army came out of the valley and camped in the open areas. Rani Durgavati discussed further strategy with her generals and wanted to attack the Mughals in the night. But her generals dissuaded her against such an action. This delay allowed the Mughals to haul there heavy artillery near the battlefield.<br /><br /></big> <div class="thumb tright"> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/92/238154713_366eed13ec_o.jpg" style="width: 999px; height: 263px;" /></span><a href="image:Kalinjar_fort.jpg" class="internal" title="Kalinjar Fort"><br /></a> </big> <div style="text-align: left;" class="thumbcaption"><big><small><small><small>Kalinjar fort, Banda, Uttar Pradesh.</small></small></small><br /></big></div> </div> </div> <big><br />Next morning (24th June, 1564) the battle started again. The young Bir Narayan pushed back Mughals thrice but was injured fighting and taken away from the battlefield. The Rani, riding her elephant, Samran, led the attack but she was ultimately stuck by two arrows and she realized the end was near. Her generals wanted her to retreat but she decided against it and instead used her "katar"(dagger) to enter Maha Samadhi (the abode of God). Rani Durgavati was an outstanding example of rajput bravery.</big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Maharana_Pratap" id="Maharana_Pratap"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;">Maharana Pratap<br /></span><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/#Maharana_Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> was the eldest son of Maharana Udai Singh. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humayun" title="Humayun">Humayun</a>'s son <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> was born in the palace of a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> king, at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Umarkot" title="Umarkot">Amarkot</a>, who had given <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humayun" title="Humayun">Humayun</a> shelter when he was being pursued by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> realized that he could never subdue Rajputs and become sole ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>. He decided to pursue diplomacy and was able to convince the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kacchwaha" title="Kacchwaha">Kacchwaha</a> Rajput rulers of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amber" title="Amber">Amber</a> (modern day <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaipur" title="Jaipur">Jaipur</a>) about a matrimonial alliance. King of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amber" title="Amber">Amber</a> agreed and Maan Kunwar became <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>'s queen and the mother of Prince <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salim" title="Salim">Salim</a>, who later became the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> emperor <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jahangir" title="Jahangir">Jahangir</a>. Soon other Rajput kingdoms in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a> also gave their daughters to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>. This was the darkest period in the history of Rajputs. Only two kings remained against this. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sisodiya" title="Sisodiya">Sisodiyas</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hada" title="Hada">Hadas</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranthambore" title="Ranthambore">Ranthambore</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hada" title="Hada">Hada</a> are <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhans</a>. Finally <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kunwar_Man_Singh" title="Kunwar Man Singh">Kunwar Man Singh</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amber" title="Amber">Amber</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> went and met <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surjan_Hada" title="Surjan Hada">Surjan Hada</a> to convince him that he should become friends with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surjan_Hada" title="Surjan Hada">Surjan</a> some how agreed but one of his conditions of friendship was that no daughter of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hada" title="Hada">Hadas</a> would ever be asked to marry <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughals</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> agreed.<br /><br />Surjan was very saddened by this friendship with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> and the fact that he could not help <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> against <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>. He felt so ashamed that he moved his residence to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banaras" title="Banaras">Banaras</a> and made sure that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindus" title="Hindus">Hindus</a> in the holy city had no problems at the hands of Muslims.<br /></big></div> <big><br /><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/65/165603349_7a91b99eba_b.jpg" style="width: 1024px; height: 768px;" /><a href="image:Udai_Palace.jpg" class="internal" title="Udai Palace"><br /></a><small><small><small> Udai Palace at Udaipur (city founded by Maharana Udai Singh).</small></small></small><br /><br />So there remained just the house of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a> the sole bearer of Rajput pride in the face of immense opposition from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughals" title="Mughals">Mughals</a> as well as other rajputs who had sold there souls essentially to Mughals by giving there daughters. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a>, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sesodia" title="Sesodia">Sesodia</a> ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>, passed a law that none of his followers will intermarry with Rajputs who have given their daughters to Muslims.<br /><br />This rule was followed by his loyal band of Rajputs, which included <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhans</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sesodia" title="Sesodia">Sesodias</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parihar" title="Parihar">Parihaars</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomar" title="Tomar">Tomars</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kacchwaha" title="Kacchwaha">Kacchwaha</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhala" title="Jhala">Jhalas</a>.<br /><br /></big><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> never accepted <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> as ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>, and fought <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> all his life. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> first tried diplomacy to win over <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> but nothing worked. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a> maintained that he had no intention to fight with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> but he could not bow down to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> and accept him as the ruler. Some scholars argue that there was some possibility that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana</a> could have become friends with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> but in the siege of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> when <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> killed 30,000 civilian, unarmed residents of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a>, because they refused to convert to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam" title="Islam">Islam</a>, left a lasting impression on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana</a>'s mind and he decided he cannot bow to such an unjust and cruel human being as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> was. (People should note that when <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> Kings fought with each other unarmed civilians were never killed in the loosing king's territory).</big><br /></div> <big><br /></big> <div class="thumb tright"> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><img alt="" src="http://www.columbia.edu/itc/mealac/pritchett/00routesdata/1400_1499/rajputforts/chitor/viewfrom.jpg" style="width: 800px; height: 570px;" /><a href="image:Chittorgarh.jpg" class="internal" title="Looking down from the Chittorgarh fort."><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Looking down from the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittorgarh" title="Chittorgarh">Chittorgarh</a> fort. </small></small></div> </div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br />Finally <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> attacked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haldighati" title="Haldighati">Haldighati</a> on 18th June, 1576 A.D. Akbar's general was Man Singh <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kacchwaha" title="Kacchwaha">Kacchwaha</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amber" title="Amber">Amber</a>, leading an army of 40 thousand men. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana</a> had about 8 thousand men and some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhil" title="Bhil">Bhil</a> warriors. One of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana</a>'s generals was Hakim Khan Sur, who was from the line of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Shah_Suri" title="Sher Shah Suri">Sher Shah Suri</a>, a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pathan" title="Pathan">pathan</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pathan" title="Pathan">Pathans</a> are the only faction of Muslims that Rajputs do not mind befriending because a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pathan" title="Pathan">Pathan</a> would rather give his life then his word. During the first attack <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a>'s army routed the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughals" title="Mughals">Mughals</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughals" title="Mughals">Mughals</a> ran for there life.</big><big><small><small><small><br /><br /><img alt="" src="http://tdil.mit.gov.in/E_TOURISM_CDAC/tourism1/images%5Chaldighati_kumbhalgarh.jpg" style="width: 315px; height: 170px;" /><br />Haldighati</small></small></small><br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> decided to kill Man Singh. He cut his way to the elephant of Man Singh. His horse <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chetak" title="Chetak">Chetak</a> put its front feet on the trunk of the elephant that Man Singh was riding and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana</a> threw his lance. Man Singh ducked, and the elephant driver was killed. Finally the numerical superiority of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> army was too much and the battle ended in a stalemate.<br /></big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>When <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> army entered the nearby town of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gogunda" title="Gogunda">Gogunda</a> they were so mortified that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana</a> would attack them again that no one would venture out of the camp for months. They ran out of food and conditions were just miserable in the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> camp. They killed there own horses and ate them to survive. Finally help arrived many months later. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> was very unhappy with his generals and his army and he refused to see his generals for months.</big></p> <div style="width: 302px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://www.4to40.com/images/discoverindia/places/mewar/chetak_smarak_haldighati.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 132px;" /></span><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Chetak Smarak</small></small></div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br />Akbar kept sending expedition after expedition against <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> but never succeeded. He lost lot of money and men in trying to defeat <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a>. For 30 years Pratap remained ahead of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> and in last ten years of his life was able to free most of his kingdom. The only fort <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a> could not recover was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> and that saddened him a lot. His son, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amar_Singh" title="Amar Singh">Amar Singh</a>, won that fort after <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a>'s death.<br /><br /></big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>It is said that somebody told <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a> wanted to accept <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> as the king. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> was very happy to hear this. One of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>'s general was Prithviraj <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> who was a very good poet. He told <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> this is a lie (incidentally Prithviraj's mother and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a>'s mother were real sisters. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a> and Prithviraj played together as kids in there maternal grandfather, Akshay Raj <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Songara" title="Songara">Songara</a>'s home who was a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhan</a> rajput). Prithviraj wrote this letter to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a>:<br /></big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/88/267910510_a1f589f1c6_o.jpg" style="width: 179px; height: 305px;" /></span><br /><small><small><small><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a> of Udaipur</small></small></small></big></p> <dl style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big><dd><big>The hopes of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> rest on the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> yet the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Rana</a> forsakes them. But for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a>, all would be placed on the same level by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>; for our chiefs have lost their valour and our females their honour. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> is the broker in the market of our race; he has purchased all but the son of Udai (Singh II of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>); he is beyond his price. What true Rajput would part with honour for nine days (nauroza); yet how many have bartered it away? Will <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a> come to this market ...? Though <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Patta</a> (an affectionate name for <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap Singh</a>) has squandered away wealth (on warfare), yet he has preserved this treasure. Despair has driven man to this market, to witness their dishonour: from such infamy the descendant of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Hammir" title="Maharana Hammir">Hammir</a> alone has been preserved. The world asks, from where does the concealed aid of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap emanate</a>? None but the soul of manliness and his sword .. The broker in the market of men (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>) will one day be surpassed; he cannot live forever. Then will our race come to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a>, for the seed of the Rajput to sow in our desolate lands. To him all look for its preservation, that its purity may again become resplendent. It is as much impossible for me to believe that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a> has called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a> his emperor as to see the sun rising in the west. Tell me where do I stand? Shall I use my sword on my neck or shall I continue my proud bearing?</big></dd><big> </big></dl> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Pratap replied to him:<br /></big></p> <dl style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big><dd><big>By my god <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eklingji" title="Eklingji">Eklinga</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a> would call the emperor <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turk" title="Turk">Turk</a> alone and the sun would rise in the east. You may continue your proud bearing as long as <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a>'s sword dangles on the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> head. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Pratap</a> would be guilty of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana_Sanga" title="Rana Sanga">Sanga</a>'s blood, if he was to tolerate <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbar" title="Akbar">Akbar</a>. You would have the better of it, no doubt Prithviraj, in this wordy quarrel.</big></dd><big> </big></dl> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Prithviraj was overjoyed on getting this letter.</big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a>'s son, Amar Singh, fought 17 wars with the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughals</a> but he finally accepted them as rulers. At this time a large chunk of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharana_Pratap" title="Maharana Pratap">Maharana Pratap</a>'s band of loyal Rajputs became disillusioned by the surrender and left <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a>. This group included <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deora" title="Deora">Deora</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhans</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parihara" title="Parihara">Parihaars</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomara" title="Tomara">Tomaras</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kacchwaha" title="Kacchwaha">Kacchwaha</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhala" title="Jhala">Jhalas</a>. They are called "Rors" and settled mostly in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haryana" title="Haryana">Haryana</a>, with some in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uttar_Pradesh" title="Uttar Pradesh">Uttar Pradesh</a>. Until today they do not intermarry with other Rajputs but "<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gotra" title="Gotra">gotra</a> permitting" with other Rors only.<br /></big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Maharana Pratap literally proved these words of Lord Ram:<br /></big></p> <blockquote> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>क्षित्रय तनु धिर समर सक ाना ।<br />कु ल क लंक तेिह पामर जाना ।।<br /></big></p> </blockquote> <p><big><a name="Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh" id="Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Maharajah Jaswant Singh</span><br /><br /></big> <div class="thumb tright"> <div style="width: 302px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/thumb/b/b7/300px-Umaid_bhawan_palace_jodhpur.jpg" style="width: 300px; height: 165px;" /></span><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Umaid Bhavan Palace is the abode of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> rulers of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a></small></small></div> </div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>In the Battle of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dharmatpur" title="Dharmatpur">Dharmatpur</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh" title="Maharaja Jaswant Singh">Jaswant Singh</a> opposed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a>. The battle was fought on 15th April <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1658" title="1658">1658</a>, fifteen miles from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ujjain" title="Ujjain">Ujjain</a>. Jaswant could have attacked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> but he allowed Murad's armies to join <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a>. He was desirous of beating both Mughal princes at once. This delay allowed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> to win over the Mughal general, Kasim Khan, who was sent by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shah_Jahan" title="Shah Jahan">Shah Jahan</a> to help <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh" title="Maharaja Jaswant Singh">Jaswant Singh</a>. Kasim Khan defected as soon as the war started but 30,000 <strong class="selflink">rajputs</strong> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh" title="Maharaja Jaswant Singh">Jaswant</a> decided that they would not leave the field. Some prominent generals in Maharaja's army were Mukund Singh <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hara" title="Hara">Hara</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kotah" title="Kotah">Kotah</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bundi" title="Bundi">Bundi</a>, Dayal Das <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhala" title="Jhala">Jhala</a>, Arjun <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaur" title="Gaur">Gaur</a> of Rajgarh in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajmer" title="Ajmer">Ajmer</a> province and Ratan Singh <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratlam" title="Ratlam">Ratlam</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh" title="Maharaja Jaswant Singh">Jaswant</a> attacked both Aurangzeb and Murad and they barely escaped. According to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tod" title="James Tod">James Tod</a> in <i>Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan:</i></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big>Ten thousand Muslims fell in the onset, which cost seventeen hundred <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathores</a>, besides <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guhilote" title="Guhilote">Guhilotes</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hara" title="Hara">Haras</a>, Gaurs, and some of every clan of Rajwarra. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murad" title="Murad">Murad</a> only escaped because their days were not yet numbered. Notwithstanding the immense superiority of the imperial princes, aided by numerous artillery served by Frenchmen, night alone put a stop to the contest of science, numbers, and artillery, against <strong class="selflink">Rajput</strong> courage.<br /></big></blockquote> </div> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 302px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://babouvoyages.free.fr/images/Inde/Jodhpur/FORTBLANC.JPG" style="width: 768px; height: 526px;" /></span><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Jaswant Thada:Chatri (Cenotaph) of Maharajah Jaswant Singh</small></small></div> </div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Finally the unequal contest ended and Aurangzeb named the place of victory Fatehabad. In this battle <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" title="Durga Das Rathore">Durga Das Rathore</a> changed four horses and lost about half a dozen swords (they broke due to intense fighting) and he finally fell down half dead. Maharajah ordered him to be carried away. After his wounds healed he promptly rejoined Maharaja's army. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tod" title="James Tod">James Tod</a> further writes in <i>Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan:</i></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajputs" title="Rajputs">Rajputs</a>, even in the moment of battle, worshipped the rising sun, and they sealed there faith in there blood; and none more liberally than the brave <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hara" title="Hara">Haras</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kotah" title="Kotah">Kotah</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bundi" title="Bundi">Bundi</a>. . . The annals of no nation on earth can furnish such an example, as an entire family, six royal brothers of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kotah" title="Kotah">Kotah</a>, stretched on the field, and all but one in death. Of all the deeds of heroism performed on this day, those of Ratan Singh <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratlam" title="Ratlam">Ratlam</a>, by universal consent, are pre-eminent, and are wreathed into immortal rhyme by the bard in the Raso Rao Ratan.</big></blockquote> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> Prithvi Singh was Jaswant Singh's son. It is chronicled in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" target="_blank">Marwar</a> <i>khyats</i> that Aurangzeb presented Prithvi Singh a dress which was poisoned. On wearing this dress Prithvi died in great pain. Prithvi was a good leader and a brave prince. Jaswant could not get over the shock of his son's death. He was very saddened because he had no male heir who could seek revenge. Jaswant died in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1680" target="_blank">1680</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tod" target="_blank">James Tod</a> writes in his <i>Annals and Antiquities of ancient Rajasthan:</i><br /></big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big>Sighs never ceased flowing from Aurang's heart while Jaswant lived. . . had all the princely contemporaries of Jaswant- Jai Singh of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amber" target="_blank">Amber</a>, Rana Raj Singh of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" target="_blank">Mewar</a>, and Chattrapati <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivaji" target="_blank">Shivaji</a> coalesced against their national foe, the Mughal power would have been made extinct. Could Jaswant, however, have been satisfied with the mental wounds he inflicted upon Aurangzeb, he would have had ample revenge; for the image of the Rathore crossed all his visions of aggrandizement. The cruel sacrifice of his heir, and the still more barbarous and unrelenting ferocity with which he pursued Jaswant's innocent family, are the surest proofs of the dread which the Rathore prince inspired while alive.<br /></big></blockquote> </div> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/110/265324233_c2c3c1f001_o.jpg" style="width: 1023px; height: 379px;" /></span><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada. Fort construction was completed during Maharajah Jaswant Singh's reign. </small></small></div> </div> </div> <big><br />Aurangzeb tried to kill Jaswant Singh many times. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tod" target="_blank">James Tod</a> writes in his Annals and Antiquities:<br /></big> <blockquote><big> </big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>It was by the vigilance of this chief (Mokund Das <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumpawat" target="_blank">Kumpawat</a>), and his daring intrepidity, that the many plots laid for Jaswant's life were defeated. He had personally incurred the displeasure of Aurangzeb, by a reply which was deemed disrespectful to a message sent by the royal "Ahadi" (royal messenger), for which the tyrant condemned him to enter a tiger's den, and contend for his life unarmed. Without a sign of fear he entered the arena, where the savage beast was pacing, and thus contemptuously accosted him: "Oh, tiger of the Miyan, face the tiger of Jaswant"; exhibiting to the king of the forest a pair of eyes, which anger and opium had rendered little less inflamed than his own. The animal, startled by so unaccustomed salutation, for a moment looked at his visitor, put down his head, turned around and stalked from him. "You see" exclaimed the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" target="_blank">Rathore</a>, "that he dare not face me, and it is contrary to the creed of a true <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajput" target="_blank">rajput</a> to attack an enemy who dares not confront him".<br /></big></div> <big> </big></blockquote> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>It is written in <i>Tarikh Mohammed Shahi</i> that Aurangzeb, on hearing the news of Maharaja's demise, said, "<i>Darwaja-e kufra shikast</i>" i.e the door opposing the Islamic faith in India is broken. Soon after Maharajah Jaswant Singh's death, Aurangzeb imposed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jizyah" target="_blank">Jizyah</a>. While Jaswant was alive Aurangzeb did not have the courage to impose <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jizyah" target="_blank">Jizyah</a> on non-Muslims. V.A. Smith writes on page 438 of his book, <i>Oxford History of India</i>, "the death of Jaswant Singh emboldened the imperial bigot to re-impose the hated <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jizyah" target="_blank">Jizyah</a>, or poll-tax on non Muslims".</big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Durga_Das_Rathore" id="Durga_Das_Rathore"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;">Durga Das Rathore</span><br /><br /></big> <div class="thumb tleft"> <div style="width: 202px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://www.geocities.com/stamparchive2/Rulers/1327_Durgadas_Rathore.jpg" style="width: 200px; height: 267px;" /></span><br /></big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" title="Durga Das Rathore">Durga Das Rathore</a></small></small></div> </div> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>When <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh" title="Maharaja Jaswant Singh">Jaswant Singh</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> died he had no son and this gave <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> a chance to appoint a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim" title="Muslim">Muslim</a> as the ruler of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a>. This upset <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> Rajputs a lot. Two of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharaja_Jaswant_Singh" title="Maharaja Jaswant Singh">Jaswant Singh</a>'s queens were pregnant when he died. One queen gave birth to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajit_Singh" title="Ajit Singh">Ajit Singh</a> and other to Dalathamban. After Ajit's birth, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a> generals, chief among them was <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" title="Durga Das Rathore">Durga Das Rathore</a> (a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnot" title="Karnot">Karnot</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a>) went to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a> along with the queens and the infants, and asked <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> that crown of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a> should be given to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajit_Singh" title="Ajit Singh">Ajit Singh</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> was very cunning and he had no intention of handing over the throne of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a>. He suggested that Ajit should grow up in his <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harem" title="Harem">harem</a> but internally he wanted to kill them all.<br /></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" title="Durga Das Rathore">Durga Das</a> sensed this and they smuggled <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajit_Singh" title="Ajit Singh">Ajit Singh</a> out of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a> to the outskirts of the city. When <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> army came to capture them in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" title="Durga Das Rathore">Durga Das</a> and his men attacked the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughals" title="Mughals">Mughals</a> and started riding out of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>. Raghunandan <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhati" title="Bhati">Bhati</a> and others soaked the streets of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a> in crimson by flowing the blood of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> pursuers. There were about three hundred Rajputs with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" title="Durga Das Rathore">Durga Das</a> and there were thousands of pursuing <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughals" title="Mughals">Mughals</a>. Every so often 15 - 20 Rajputs would fall behind attack the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughal</a> pursuers and in the process get themselves killed but it allowed the forward party to create some distance between Ajit and the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughals</a>. This continued till the evening by which time the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mughal" title="Mughal">Mughals</a> had given up and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" title="Durga Das Rathore">Durga Das</a> was left with just seven men out of three hundred he started with and reached <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaipur" title="Jaipur">Jaipur</a> along with Ajit Singh.</big><br /><br /></div> <big> <img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/26/Jaipur_is_called_the_pink_city.jpg" style="width: 677px; height: 507px;" /><br /><small><small><small><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Rajputs founded several cities of modern-day Rajasthan. The historical city of </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodhpur" title="Jodhpur">Jodhpur</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> was founded by the </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> clan of Rajputs.</span></small></small></small><br /><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Thereby started the 30 year Rajput rebellion against Aurangzeb. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a> forces combined together and almost killed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> when he was trapped in the mountains of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a> but the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a> king out of magnanimity allowed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> to escape. All the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trade_route" title="Trade route">trade routes</a> were plundered by <strong class="selflink">Rajputs</strong> and they started looting various treasuries of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a>. To crush them <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> sent many expeditions but no success. These expeditions and drying up of revenue from trade routes running through <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a> had severe effect on his resources. In addition the lion of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharashtra" title="Maharashtra">Maharashtra</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivaji" title="Shivaji">Shivaji</a>, had freed almost all of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maharashtra" title="Maharashtra">Maharashtra</a> and was at constant war with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivaji" title="Shivaji">Shivaji</a> had some Rajput ancestry. Finally, on his death-bed <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurangzeb" title="Aurangzeb">Aurangzeb</a> complained that his life had been a complete failure. He was the sole reason for Mughal empire's crumbling. His war campaigns had practically left the treasury dry for his progeny.<br /></big></div> <big><br /></big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Cenotaph.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://www.ujjain.nic.in/tourist/images/Durga_Das_ki_Chhatri.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 216px; height: 147px;" /></a><a href="image:Cenotaph.jpg" class="internal" title="Cenotaph"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><big><small><small><small>Cenotaph of Durga Das Rathore near Ujjain.</small></small></small><br /></big></div> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Baron De Boigne payed tribute to rajput (rathaura) valor in his memoirs, which were published by his son in 18th century. De Boigne fought the rathaurs, as part of Mahadaji Scindia's army at Tonga, Lalsot and Medta.<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tod" target="_blank"> James Tod</a> describes the fate of Jaswant Singh's family and the birth of his son <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajit_Singh" target="_blank">Ajit Singh</a>. Following excerpt from Page 45,46 of <i>Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan</i>:</big></div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></div> <blockquote><big> </big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> When Jaswant died beyond the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attock" target="_blank">Attock</a>, his wife, the (future) mother of Ajit, determined to burn with her lord, but being in the seventh month of her pregnancy, she was forcibly prevented by Uday <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumpawat" target="_blank">Kumpawat</a>. As soon as the tidings reached <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodhpur" target="_blank">Jodhpur</a>, the Chandravati queen, taking a turban of her late lord, ascended the pile at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandore" target="_blank">Mandore</a>. The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" target="_blank">Hindu</a> race was in despair at the loss of the support of their faith. The bells of the temple were mute; the sacred shell no longer sounded at sunrise. The queen was delivered of a boy, who received the name of Ajit. As soon as she was able to travel, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" target="_blank">Rathore</a> contingent, with their infant prince, his mother, the daughters, and establishment of their late sovereign, prepared to return to their native land. But the unrelenting Aurangzeb, carrying his vengeance towards Jaswant even beyond the grave, as soon they reached <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" target="_blank">Delhi</a>, commanded that the infant should be surrendered to his custody. Aurang offered to divide Maru amongst <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" target="_blank">Marwar</a> nobles if they would surrender their prince; but they replied:<br /></big></div> <big> </big> <blockquote><big>Our country is with our sinews, and these can defend both it and our Lord.</big></blockquote> <big> </big></blockquote> <blockquote><big> </big> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>With eyes red with rage, they left the Aum-khas. Their abode was surrounded by the host of the Shah. In a basket of sweetmeats they sent away the young prince, . . . and prepared to defend their honour; they made oblations to the gods, took a double portion of opium, and mounted their steeds. Then spoke Rinchor and Govind, sons of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodha" target="_blank">Jodha</a>, and Chandarbhan the Darawat, and the son of Raghu, on whose shoulders the sword had been married at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ujjain" target="_blank">Ujjain</a>, with the fearless Baharmall the Udawat, and the Sujawat, Raghunath. "Let us swim," they exclaimed, "in the ocean of fight. Let us root up these Asuras, and be carried by the Apsaras to the mansions of the sun." Then spake <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" target="_blank">Durga Das Rathore</a>, son of Asakaran, "The teeth of the Yavans are whetted, but by the lightning emitted from our swords, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" target="_blank">Delhi</a> shall witness our deeds". As thus the chiefs communed, and the troops of the king approached, the Rajloka (wives and daughters of Maharajah Jaswant Singh) of their late lord was sent to inhabit Swarga. Their own wives and daughters, were placed in an apartment filled with gunpowder, and the torch applied--all was soon over. Lance in hand, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" target="_blank">Rathores</a> rushed upon the foe, then the music of swords and shields commenced. Wave followed wave in the field of blood. Every tribe and every clan performed its duty in this day's pilgrimage to the stream of the sword, in which <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" target="_blank">Durgadas</a> ground the foe and saved his honour.</big></p> <big> </big></blockquote> <blockquote><big> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Mt_Abu.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/42/125768466_82698e5b52_b.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 677px; height: 508px;" /></a><a href="image:Mt_Abu.jpg" class="internal" title="Ajit was reared in the mountains of Mt. Abu"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><big><small><small><small>Ajit grew up in the mountains of Mt. Abu.</small></small></small><br /></big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>When these brave men saw that nothing short of the surrender of all that was dear to a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajput" target="_blank">Rajput</a> was intended by the fiend-like spirit of Aurangzeb, their first thought was the preservation of their prince; the next to secure their own honour and that of their late master. The means by which they accomplished this were terrific. Accordingly, "the battle fought by the sons of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rao_Doohad" target="_blank">Duharia</a> (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" target="_blank">Rathore</a> king who ruled <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" target="_blank">Marwar</a> in ancient time) in the streets of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" target="_blank">Delhi</a>" is one of the many themes of everlasting eulogy to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" target="_blank">Rathores</a>; and the seventh of Sravan, S.1736 (the second month of the Monsoon of A.D. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1680" target="_blank">1680</a>), is a sacred day in the calendar of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" target="_blank">Maru</a>.<br /></big></p> <big> </big> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>In the midst of this furious contest, the infant prince was saved. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" target="_blank">DurgaDas</a> and a few chosen friends repaired to the isolated rock of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abu" target="_blank">Abu</a>, and placed him in a monastery of recluses. There the heir of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maru" target="_blank">Maru</a> was reared in entire ignorance of his birth. Still rumours prevailed, that a son of Jaswant lived; that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Das_Rathore" target="_blank">Durga</a> and a few associates were his guardians; and this was enough for the loyal <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajput" target="_blank">Rajput</a>, to be his rallying-word in the defense of his rights.<br /></big></p> <big> </big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></div> <big> </big></blockquote> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Banda_Bhadur" id="Banda_Bhadur"></a></big></p> <big><span style="font-weight: bold;">Banda Bhadur</span><br /><br />Lakshman Dev was born in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmir">Kashmir</a> in 1670 A.D. He was a Minhas Rajput and lived as an ascetic <span style="font-family:verdana,arial;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >at Nander on the banks of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Godavari">Godavari</a> in Maharashtra</span></span></span>.<br /><br /></big> <div class="thumb tright"> <div style="width: 302px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://www.sikh-history.com/sikhhist/images/portraits/banda.jpg" style="width: 500px; height: 411px;" /></span><a href="image:Banda_Bhadur.jpg" class="internal" title="Banda Bhadur"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Banda Bhadur</small></small></div> </div> </div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guru_Gobind_Singh">Guru Gobind Singh</a>, the tenth guru of Sikhs, met Lakshman at his hermitage and encouraged him to give up his ascetic way of life and resume the duties of a real Rajput. Guruji gave Lakshman a new name: Banda Bhadur and asked him to lead Khalsa, the Sikh army to punish the Governor of Sirhind, Wazir Khan, who was personally responsible for the death of Guruji's family and thousands of Sikhs and Hindus. When Banda was on his way to Punjab, Guru Gobind Singh was assassinated by Pathans on the orders of Wazir Khan. Banda Bhadur was not disheartened by this news rather the fire of vengeance started burning stronger in his heart. He continued his journey and raided the Mughal treasuries at Sonepat and Kaithal and used it to strengthen his army. He then destroyed the Mughal armies at Samana, Kunjpura, Ghuram, Thaska and Mustafabad. At Damla the Pathans were routed. When on his way from Mustafabad to Sadhaura (which literally means the abode of Sadhus, was a buddhist holy centre), he heard of indecencies which Qadam-ud-din, ruler of Kapuri, was prone to inflict on the Hindu population, the ascetic Banda decided to punish the Muslim ruler. Kapuri was destroyed and Qadam-ud-din perished.<br /><br /></big></div> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Lohgarh.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/25/95652942_3fd711f973_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 677px; height: 449px;" /></a><a href="image:Lohgarh.jpg" class="internal" title="Lohgarh Fort"><br /></a> </big> <div style="font-weight: bold;" class="thumbcaption"><small><small>Lohgarh fort. </small></small></div> </div> </div> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>At Sadhaura the well garrisoned Mughal fort was stormed and the ruler Osman Khan, who committed atrocities against Hindus was killed. In February 1710 he established the first Sikh Kingdom with its capital at <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lohgarh">Lohgarh</a>, 20 KM south of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nahan">Nahan</a>. His kingdom was bounded in the north by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivalik">Shivalik</a> hills, on the west by river Tangri, on the east by river Jamuna and in the south by a line passing through Samana, Thanesar, Kaithal and Karnal. He abolished the Mughal control of land in his kingdom and made the peasants owner of the land. Guru Gobind Singh's dream of political sovereignty was realized by Banda Bhadur within one year of his death.<br /><br />Banda's name struck terror in the hearts of Muslims, lawless people and dacoits. Robbery, thefts and persecution of Hindus and Sikhs became a thing of the past. His army kept growing and finally he attacked Wazir Khan, the governor of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirhind">Sirhind</a>. Wazir Khan's army consisted of 30,000 men and Banda had about 15,000 men. Banda first stormed Banur, near <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambala">Ambala</a>, as the Muslims of this town used to seize cows and oxen of Hindus and slaughter them in there presence. Battle was fought on May 12, 1710 A.D. at Chappar Chiri, 20 KMs from Sirhind. Wazir Khan and several of his commanders were killed in the battle and his army completely destroyed. Khafi Khan, a chronicler of the time records<br /></big> <blockquote><big>. . . not a man of the army of Islam escaped with more than his life and the clothes he stood in. Horsemen and footmen fell under the swords of the infidels [Sikhs] who pursued them as far as Sirhind.</big></blockquote> <big>Sirhind was stormed and thus Banda avenged the murder of Guru Gobind Singh and his sons by killing Wazir Khan. Soon other towns were won by Banda and his army. Rai Kot, Saharanpur, Jalalabad, Ludhiana, Jullundur, Hoshiarpur, Batala, Kalanaur and Pathankot were won. The Mughal King of Delhi tried his best to suppress Banda Bhadur but "There was no nobleman daring enough to march from Delhi against them", comments the Mughal source.<br /><br />Banda Bhadur attracted a lot of people from the plains of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haryana">Haryana</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjab">Punjab</a> to the fold of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikhism">Sikhism</a> as he gave them an opportunity to fight against the tyranny and unjust oppression of the Muslim rulers. </big></div> <p><big><a name="Protection_of_Hinduism" id="Protection_of_Hinduism"></a></big></p> <h2><big>Protection of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism" title="Hinduism">Hinduism</a></big></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>A point to note here is that lot of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslims" title="Muslims">Muslims</a>, Western and some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindu</a> historians think that <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam" title="Islam">Islam</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim" title="Muslim">Muslims</a> did not do conversion of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindus</a> by sword. The argument they give is that there are so many <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu" title="Hindu">Hindus</a> still today in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>. This is completely wrong because most <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim" title="Muslim">Muslim</a> rulers in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> tried to convert as many as they could. Some of the methods used were threat of execution by sword, Jizya (an exorbitant tax on non-Muslims) and religious persecution. In this excerpt from page 58-59 of "A Rediscovery of India: A new subcontinent" by Ansar Hussain Khan, a Pakistani Historian, is described how the Tughlaq sultanate and its followers converted Hindus to Islam.<br /></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big>He used the exemption of paying the jeziya by non-believers as a deliberate method to obtain large scale conversions to Islam. Thousands upon upon thousands of Muslim converts were made in this fashion. He was the first in India to use Jizya methodically for the conversion, and in this he was emulated by many successors on the throne of Delhi. He also cancelled the exemption of Brahmans from paying this tax and re-imposed it upon them.</big></blockquote> </div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>But it was the strength of Rajput sword and later <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maratha" title="Maratha">Maratha</a> and<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikh" title="Sikh"> Sikh</a> swords that kept Hinduism alive in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>. If there were no <strong class="selflink">Rajputs</strong>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maratha" title="Maratha">Marathas</a> or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikh" title="Sikh">Sikhs</a> in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>, then <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> would be just like <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iraq" title="Iraq">Iraq</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iran" title="Iran">Iran</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkey" title="Turkey">Turkey</a>, or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pakistan" title="Pakistan">Pakistan</a> in terms of religion of the population. Every month, in the 1000 year presence of Muslims in India there were bloody wars between Hindus and Muslims. This is quite unlike other countries like Iran, where non-Muslims, after loosing a couple of wars gave the Muslims a free hand in converting there population to Islam.<br /></big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Presence of Rajput generals in Mughal army was a blessing in disguise for the Hindu population as the Mughal army when headed by a rajput general could not engage in wanton destruction of Hindu temples as well as mass conversion of Hindus to Islam. The preservance of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism" title="Hinduism">Hinduism</a> in India by the Rajput sword against the entire might of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic" title="Islamic">Islamic</a> rulers is the most glorious achievement by a race in the annals of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_history" title="World history">world history</a> and every one should know this fact, more so <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian" title="Indian">Indians</a> and most definitely each and every Rajput. </big></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>In his <i>Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan</i> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Tod" title="James Tod">James Tod</a> wrote:<br /></big></p> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big>What nation on earth could have maintained the semblance of civilization, the spirit or the customs of their forefathers, during so many centuries of overwhelming depression, but one of such singular character as the Rajpoot? . . . Rajasthan exhibits the sole example in the history of mankind, of a people withstanding every outrage barbarity could inflict, or human nature sustain, from a foe whose religion (Islam) commands annihilation; and bent to the earth, yet rising buoyant from the pressure, and making calamity a whetstone to courage. . . . Not an iota of their religion or customs have they lost. . . .<br /></big></blockquote> </div> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> Contrast this to how Muslims converted entire Iranian kingdom, where a very ancient religion of Zoroaster flourished, on the edge of the sword in a very short amount of time and Spain which was conquered and ruled by Islam for 700 years was majority Muslim state till Spanish Christian Kings began driving out the moors and reconverted Muslims back to Christianity. In India, Hindu religion has no concept of conversion. One has to be a born Hindu. (Though of late as a reaction to conversion of tribals by missionaries some Hindu groups have concocted a recipe to make a person Hindu!)<br /></big></div> <dl><big> </big><p style="text-align: justify;"><big>This section is from Page 3 of: The Parsees, Their History, Manners, Customs & Religion. Dosabhoy Framjee. Pub: London: Smith, Elder and Co., 65, Cornhill: 1858.<br /></big></p><big> </big></dl> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big> <blockquote><big>Suffice it to say, that with Yezdezird, the forty-fifth king in the descent of the race of Kaimurs, ended the ancient Persian monarchy. The neighbouring and wealthy empire of Persia presented too tempting a prize to the fanatic and ambitious spirit, evoked by Mahomed, to remain long unmolested, and in the middle of the seventh century of the Christian era, the Arab sword invaded Persia, under Caliph Omar. In a fierce and well-contested battle with the Persians at the village of Nahavand, about fifty miles from the ancient city of Ecbatana, the fate of the empire was decided.....Yezdezird, abandoning his kingdom as lost, fled the country; and after wandering in solitude and disguise for a period of ten years, was at last treacherously slain by a miller to whom the secret of his identity had been confided (651 AD). ....<br /><br />Thus on the conquest of Persia, the Mahomedan soldiers of the Caliphat of Baghdad traversed the length and breadth of the country, presenting the alternative of death or the Koran, and compelling the conquered nation to accept the one or the other. By these oppressive and cruel means, a hundred thousand persons are said to have daily abjured the faith of there forefathers; and the fire-temples and other sacred places were destroyed or converted into mosques.<br /></big></blockquote><big> To escape the sword of Islam some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoroastrian">Zoroastrians</a> landed on the coast of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat">Gujarat</a> in 716 A.D. Rajput king of Gujarat gave them land to settle and put no religious restriction on the Zoroastrians. The magnanimity of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu">Hindu</a> King allowed the Zoroastrian religion to flourish. In modern era some of the top industrialists of India e.g. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._R._D._Tata">J.R.D. Tata</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ardeshir_Godrej">Ardeshir Godrej</a>, symphony conductor <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zubin_Mehta">Zubin Mehta</a>, etc. belong to the the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parsi">Parsi</a> (Zoroastrian) community.</big></div> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="Prominent_Rajput_clans_.26_their_main_centers" id="Prominent_Rajput_clans_.26_their_main_centers"></a></big></p> <h2><big>Prominent Rajput clans & their main centers</big></h2> <big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big> <table class="" style="background-color: transparent; width: 100%;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" valign="top" width="33%"><big><br /></big> <div style="font-size: 80%;"><big> </big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suryavanshi" title="Suryavanshi">Suryavanshi</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birgoojur" title="Birgoojur">BirGoojur</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Churu" title="Churu">Churu</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sikarwar" title="Sikarwar">Sikarwar</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agra" title="Agra">Agra</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamwal" title="Jamwal">Jamwal</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jammu" title="Jammu">Jammu</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tomara" title="Tomara">Tuar</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delhi" title="Delhi">Delhi</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwalior" title="Gwalior">Gwalior</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guhila" title="Guhila">Guhilote</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udaipur" title="Udaipur">Udaipur</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aharya" title="Aharya">Aharya</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peeparra" title="Peeparra">Peeparra</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sisodia" title="Sisodia">Sisodia</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittor" title="Chittor">Chittor</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udaipur" title="Udaipur">Udaipur</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rana" title="Rana">Ranawat</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saktawut" title="Saktawut">Saktawut</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Choondawut" title="Choondawut">Choondawut</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sangawut" title="Sangawut">Sangawut</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarangdevot" title="Sarangdevot">Sarangdevot</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goodah" title="Goodah">Goodah</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kachwaha" title="Kachwaha">Kachwaha</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narwar" title="Narwar">Narwar</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaipur" title="Jaipur">Jaipur</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalyanot" title="Kalyanot">Kalyanot</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajawat" title="Rajawat">Rajawat</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shekhawat" title="Shekhawat">Shekhawat</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jasrotia" title="Jasrotia">Jasrotia</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jasrota" title="Jasrota">Jasrota</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pundir" title="Pundir">Pundir</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pundri" title="Pundri">Pundri</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathore</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marwar" title="Marwar">Marwar</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannauj" title="Kannauj">Kannauj</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodhpur" title="Jodhpur">Jodhpur</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bikaner" title="Bikaner">Bikaner</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Champawat" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/chandansingh.htm">Champawat</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhandhul" title="Dhandhul">Dhandhul</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhadail" title="Bhadail">Bhadail</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodha" title="Jodha">Jodha</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khokra" title="Khokra">Khokra</a><br /></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumpawat" title="Kumpawat">Kumpawat</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaitawat" title="Jaitawat">Jaitawat</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnot" title="Karnot">Karnot</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></td> <td align="left" valign="top" width="33%"><big><br /></big> <div style="font-size: 80%;"><big> </big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnivanshi" title="Agnivanshi">Agnivanshi</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chauhan" title="Chauhan">Chauhan</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajmer" title="Ajmer">Ajmer</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deora" title="Deora">Deora</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirohi" title="Sirohi">Sirohi</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hada" title="Hada">Hada</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hadoti" title="Hadoti">Hadoti</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranathambore" title="Ranathambore">Ranathambore</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhaduria" title="Bhaduria">Bhaduria</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhadawar" title="Bhadawar">Bhadawar</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Songara" title="Songara">Sonigurra</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jalore" title="Jalore">Jalore</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kheechee" title="Kheechee">Khichi</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solanki" title="Solanki">Solanki</a>: Anahilawad (Patan) <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baghel" title="Baghel">Baghel</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponwar" title="Ponwar">Paramara</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ponwar" title="Ponwar">Ponwar</a> (Parmar): <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Abu" title="Mount Abu">Mount Abu</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhar" title="Dhar">Dhar</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mori" title="Mori">Mori</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodha" title="Sodha">Sodha</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sankhla" title="Sankhla">Sankhla</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pratihara" title="Pratihara">Pratihara</a> (Parihara): <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannauj" title="Kannauj">Kannauj</a>,<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damoh" title="Damoh">Damoh</a>,<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jabalpur" title="Jabalpur">Jabalpur</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pokhawat" title="Pokhawat">Pokhawat</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghorana" title="Ghorana">Ghorana</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inda" title="Inda">Inda</a></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big><br /></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big><br /></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big><br /></big></div> <big><br /></big></td> <td align="left" valign="top" width="33%"><big><br /></big> <div style="font-size: 80%;"><big> </big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandravanshi" title="Chandravanshi">Chandravanshi</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhatti" title="Bhatti">Bhatti</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaisalmer" title="Jaisalmer">Jaisalmer</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bundela" title="Bundela">Bundela</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orchha" title="Orchha">Orchha</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandela" title="Chandela">Chandela</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahoba" title="Mahoba">Mahoba</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khajuraho" title="Khajuraho">Khajuraho</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalinjar" title="Kalinjar">Kalinjar</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chavda_Kingdom" title="Chavda Kingdom">Chavda</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anahilwad" title="Anahilwad">Anahilwad</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dahia" title="Dahia">Dahia</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haryana" title="Haryana">Haryana</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Katoch" title="Katoch">Katoch</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kangra" title="Kangra">Kangra</a>/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himachal_Pradesh" title="Himachal Pradesh">Himachal Pradesh</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhala" title="Jhala">Jhala</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhalavad" title="Jhalavad">Jhalavad</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jadeja" title="Jadeja">Jadeja</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarvaiya" title="Sarvaiya">Sarvaiya</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raijdas" title="Raijdas">Raijdas</a></big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vaj" title="Vaj">Vaj</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <big> </big></li><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banaphar" title="Banaphar">Banaphar</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahoba" title="Mahoba">Mahoba</a><br /></big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pathania" title="Pathania">Pathania</a>: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himachal_Pradesh" title="Himachal Pradesh">Himachal Pradesh</a></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big><br /></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big><br /></big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big><br /></big></div> <big><br /></big></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><big><a name="Clans_of_Jammu_and_Himachal" id="Clans_of_Jammu_and_Himachal"></a></big></p> <h3><big>Clans of Jammu and Himachal</big></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;"><big>Rajput clans in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jammu" title="Jammu">Jammu</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himachal_Pradesh" title="Himachal Pradesh">Himachal Pradesh</a>: Jaswal, Chambial, Mankotia, Sambial, Guleria, Dadwal, Jamwal, Chib, Katoch, Suketia, Kutlehria, Baloria, Charak, Bandral, Kahluria etc. [source: <i>History and Culture of Himalayan States by Professor Sukhdev Singh Charak</i>]<br /></big></p> <p><big><a name="List_of_Famous_Modern_Day_Rajputs" id="List_of_Famous_Modern_Day_Rajputs"></a></big></p> <h2><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Famous_Modern_Day_Rajputs" title="List of Famous Modern Day Rajputs">List of Famous Modern Day Rajputs</a></big></h2> <p><big><a name="Politics" id="Politics"></a></big></p> <h3><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics" title="Politics">Politics</a></big></h3> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://www.tribuneindia.com/2003/20030715/main3.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.tribuneindia.com/2003/20030715/main3.htm">Professor Rajendra Singh Tomar (Rajju Bhaiya) (RSS Sar Sanchalak)<br /></a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Rajendra_Singh.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://www.lifeinlegacy.com/2003/0719/SinghRajendra.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 96px; height: 139px;" /></a><a href="image:Rajendra_Singh.jpg" class="internal" title="Rajendra Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishwanath_Pratap_Singh" title="Vishwanath Pratap Singh">Vishwanath Pratap Singh Gaharwar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prime_Minister" title="Prime Minister">Prime Minister</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> (Dec.2, 1989-Nov.10, 1990)</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandra_Shekhar" title="Chandra Shekhar">Chandra Shekhar</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prime_Minister" title="Prime Minister">Prime Minister</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a> (Nov.10, 1990-June 21, 1991)</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://parliamentofindia.nic.in/ls/lok11/biodata/11rj09.htm" class="external text" title="http://parliamentofindia.nic.in/ls/lok11/biodata/11rj09.htm">Jaswant Singh Jasol Ex-Foreign Minister, Rajya Sabha MP.<br /></a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Jaswant_Singh.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://parliamentofindia.nic.in/ls/lok11/biodata/11rj09.gif" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 100px; height: 110px;" /></a><a href="image:Jaswant_Singh.jpg" class="internal" title="Jaswant Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.karansingh.com/karan/index.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.karansingh.com/karan/index.htm">Dr Karan Singh Dogra (ex-foreign minister of India) Maharajah of Kashmir<br /></a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Karan_Singh.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://www.karansingh.com/images/karan1.gif" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 124px; height: 157px;" /></a><a href="image:Karan_Singh.jpg" class="internal" title="Karan Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhairon_Singh_Shekhawat" title="Bhairon Singh Shekhawat">Bhairon Singh Shekhawat</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vice-president" title="Vice-president">Vice-president</a> of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Vir Bhadur Singh, ex-chief minister of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uttar_Pradesh" title="Uttar Pradesh">Uttar Pradesh</a></big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Vir Bhadra Singh, ex-chief minister of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Himachal_Pradesh" title="Himachal Pradesh">Himachal Pradesh</a></big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arjun_Singh" title="Arjun Singh">Arjun Singh</a>, HRD minister, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Raman Singh, Chief Minister of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chattisgarh" title="Chattisgarh">Chattisgarh</a></big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Shankar Singh Vaghela, Union Textile Minister of India (Former CM of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a>)</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Madhavsinh Solanki (Former CM of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarat" title="Gujarat">Gujarat</a>)</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Dharam Singh, Former CM of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karnataka" title="Karnataka">Karnataka</a></big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Digvijay Singh, Former Chief Minister of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madhya_Pradesh" title="Madhya Pradesh">Madhya Pradesh</a></big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Rajnath Singh, President of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BJP" title="BJP">BJP</a></big></li><big> </big></ul> <p><big><a name="Sports" id="Sports"></a></big></p> <h3><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sports" title="Sports">Sports</a></big></h3> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumar_Shri_Ranjitsinhji" title="Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji">Ranjit Sinh Jadeja</a>: Cricket. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranji_Trophy" title="Ranji Trophy">Ranji Trophy</a> is named after him.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KS_Duleepsinhji" title="KS Duleepsinhji">KS Duleepsinhji</a>: Cricketer.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajyavardhan_Singh_Rathore" title="Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore">Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore</a>, olympic silver medalist</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahendra_Singh_Dhoni" title="Mahendra Singh Dhoni">Mahendra Singh Dhoni</a>, famous cricketer.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhyan_Chand" title="Dhyan Chand">Dhyan Chand</a> the great hockey player.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chetan_Chauhan" title="Chetan Chauhan">Chetan Chauhan</a> former opening batsmen of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India" title="India">India</a>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajay_Jadeja" title="Ajay Jadeja">Ajay Jadeja</a> cricketer</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big>Maharajah Karni Singh, Olympic Shooter.<br /></big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaspal_Rana" title="Jaspal Rana">Jaspal Rana</a> Shooter</big></li><big> </big></ul> <p><big><a name="Defence_Forces" id="Defence_Forces"></a></big></p> <h3><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Defence_Forces" title="Defence Forces">Defence Forces</a></big></h3> <ul><big> </big><ul><big> </big><li><big>General Maharaj K.S. Rajendrasinhji, Chief of Indian Army.</big></li><big> </big></ul><big> </big></ul> <ul><big> </big><ul><big> </big></ul><big> </big><ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Navy-Chiefs/Chiefs-Navy19.html" class="external text" title="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/Navy-Chiefs/Chiefs-Navy19.html">Admiral Madhvendra Singh, Chief of Naval Staff and Chief of Joint Chiefs</a></big></li><big> </big></ul><big> </big></ul> <ul><big> </big><ul><big> </big><li><big>Admiral V.S. Shekhawat, Chief of Indian Navy.</big></li><big> </big></ul><big> </big></ul> <p><big><a name="Param_Vir_Chakra_winners_.28Highest_gallantry_award_in_India.29" id="Param_Vir_Chakra_winners_.28Highest_gallantry_award_in_India.29"></a></big></p> <h4><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Param_Vir_Chakra">Paramvir Chakra</a> winners (Highest gallantry award in India)<br /></big></h4> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://faculty.winthrop.edu/haynese/india/medals/PVC/PVC04.html" title="Jadu Nath Singh">Naik Jadu Nath Singh</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Jadu_Nath_Singh.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://faculty.winthrop.edu/haynese/india/medals/PVC/PSinghJ.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 120px; height: 194px;" /></a><a href="image:Jadu_Nath_Singh.jpg" class="internal" title="Jadu Nath Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big><br /></big><div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Naik Jadunath Singh, son of Shri Birbal Singh, was born on 21 November 1916, in village Khajuri, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. He joined 1 Rajput Regiment on 21 November, 1941.<br /><br />During the Jammu & Kashmir ops in the winter of 1947, the capture of Jhangar on December 24th, by the Pakistani raiders, placed them in an advantageous position in the Naushahra sector. Being in full command of the communication lines from Mirpur to Punch, they could now build up their forces for attack on Naushahra. The Army was alive to this threat.<br /><br />In January 1948, they conducted operations to prevent the enemy build up in the area and in the process occupied Kot village to the north-west of Naushahra. In any case an attack on Naushahra was imminent. Brigadier Usman of the 50 Para Brigade had made adequate preparation to thwart this attack by establishing strong pickets on possible enemy approaches. One of these approaches lay to the north of Naushahra through Tain Dhar. The expected enemy attack came on the foggy morning of February 6th, at 0640 hrs. The enemy started the attack by opening fire from their pickets on the Tain Dhar ridge on an Indian patrol. Simultaneously, the whole of Tain Dhar feature and the surrounding hills became live with bursts of machine gun and crunches of mortar fire. Meanwhile under the cover of darkness the enemy crept up to the Indian pickets. In the first light of dawn the men on the post saw thousands of hostiles creeping up to them. On the crucial day of February 6th, Naik Jadunath Singh was in command of a forward post of picket No.2 at Tain Dhar. The post was garrisoned by nine men. The enemy launched their attack in successive waves to take this post.<br /><br />At this juncture Naik Jadunath Singh displayed great valour & superb leadership and used his small force in such a manner that the enemy retreated in utter confusion. When four of his men were wounded he re-organised the battered force for meeting another onslaught. The post did not give in despite its being outnumbered. When all men including himself were wounded, he personally took over the bren gun from the wounded bren-gunner. The enemy was now right on the walls of the post.Naik Jadunath Singh, unmindful of personal safety encouraged his men to fight. His fire was so devastating that what looked like a certain defeat was turned into a victory. Thus the post was saved a second time.<br /><br />By now all men of the post had turned into casualties. The enemy put in his third and final attack determined to capture the post. Naik Jadunath Singh, wounded and alone, rose to give a battle for the third time. He came out of the Sangar and firing his sten gun charged on the advancing enemy. The surprised enemy fled in disorder. He met a gallant death, in this third and last charge when two enemy bullets pierced him in the head and the chest. At a most critical stage in the battle for the defence of Naushahra, he saved his picket from being overrun by the enemy.<br /><br />He was honoured with the highest war-time gallantry medal, Param Vir Chakra, posthumously.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Piru.html" title="Piru Singh Shekhawat">Company Havaldar Piru Singh Shekhawat</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Piru"><img alt="" src="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Images/Piru.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 134px; height: 205px;" /></a><a href="image:Piru" jpg="" class="internal" title="Piru Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />Company Havaldar Piru Singh Shekhawat, son of Shri Lal Singh was born on 20 May 1918, at village Beri, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. He joined 6 Rajputana Rifles on 20 May, 1936.<br /><br />During the Jammu & Kashmir operations in summer of 1948, the Pakistani raiders mounted a strong counter offensive in the Tithwal sector. The enemy also forced the Indian Army to vacate their forward positions across river Kishanganga. After the setback, the Indian troops took position on the Tithwal ridge.<br /><br />At this juncture, 6 Rajputana Rifles was moved from Uri to Tithwal to strengthen the 163 Brigade in its impending offensive in the sector. The Indian offensive commenced on 11 July 1948. The operation went on well till July 15th. The reconnaissance reports, however, revealed that the enemy was holding a high feature in the area and that its capture was essential for making any further progress. Further ahead lay another feature also held in strength by the enemy. The 6 Rajputana Rifles was assigned the task of securing these two features. The 'D' Company was to secure the first feature. The 'C' Company was to capture the second feature after the 'D' Company had carried out its task. The 'D' Company launched its attack on the objective at 0130 hrs on July 18th. The path to the objective was about one metre wide with deep ravines on either side. Overlooking this narrow path were the hidden enemy bunkers. The company was subjected to heavy fire and within half an hour it suffered 51 casualties. During this battle, Company Havildar Major Piru Singh was with the leading section of the company, more than half of which was mowed down by the devastating fire of the enemy. He rushed forward to deal with the enemy medium machine gun post which was playing havoc with his troops. Enemy grenade splinters ripped open his clothes and wounded several parts of his body. But this did not deter him. He still continued the advance, shouting the battle cry, "Raja Ramchandra Ki Jai." Rushing forward he bayoneted the crew of the enemy MMG, with his own sten gun, silenced the menacing gun and occupied the post. By this time all his companions lay behind either dead or wounded.<br /><br />The responsibility of clearing the enemy from the hill feature lay with him alone. Bleeding profusely he inched forward to attack the second enemy MMG post. At this juncture a grenade wounded him in the face. The blood dripping from his face almost blinded him. By now all sten gun ammunition with him had been spent. He courageously crawled out of the occupied enemy trench and hurled grenades at the next enemy post. CHM Piru Singh then jumped into another trench and bayoneted two enemy soldiers to death. As CHM Piru Singh, emerged out of the second trench to charge on the third enemy bunker, he was hit in head by a bullet and was seen dropping on the edge of the enemy trench. There was an explosion in the trench which showed that the grenade had done its work. By then CHM Piru Singh's wound had proved fatal.<br /><br />"He paid with his life for his singularly brave act, but he left for the rest of his comrades a unique example of single-handed bravery and determined cold courage. The country is grateful," wrote Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru to Mrs. Tarawati, 75-year old mother of Company Havildar Major Piru Singh, "for this sacrifice made in the service of the Motherland, and it is our prayer that this may give you some peace and solace."<br /><br />He was honoured with the highest war-time gallantry medal, Param Vir Chakra.<br /><br /></big></div><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://indianarmy.nic.in/PVC/photo_2.htm" title="Gurbachan Singh Salaria">Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Gurbachan.jpg"><img alt="" src="http://indianarmy.nic.in/PVC/arimage/Capt%20GS%20Salaria%20.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 151px; height: 186px;" /></a><a href="image:Gurbachan.jpg" class="internal" title="Gurbachan Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big> </big><div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br />Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria, son of Shri Munshi Ram, was born on 29 November 1935, at village Jhangal, Gurdaspur, Punjab. He was commissioned in 1 Gorkha Rifles on 9 June, 1957.<br /><br />On 5 December 1961, 3/1 Gorkha Rifles was ordered to clear up a roadblock established by the gendarmerie at a strategic roundabout at Elizabethville, Katanga. The plan was that one company with two Swedish armoured cars would attack the position frontally and Capt. Gurbachan Singh Salaria with two sections of Gorkhas and two Swedish armoured personnel carriers would advance towards this roadblock from the airfield to act as a cutting-off force. Capt. Salaria with his small force arrived at a distance of 1500 yards from the roadblock at approximately 1312 hours on 5 December and came under heavy automatic and small arms fire from an undetected enemy position on his right flank. The enemy also had two armoured cars and about 90 men opposing Capt. Salaria's small force. Capt. Salaria appreciating that he had run into a subsidiary roadblock and ambush and that the enemy force might reinforce the strategic roundabout and thus jeopardize the main operation, decided to remove this opposition. He led a charge with bayonets, kukris and grenades supported by a rocket launcher.<br /><br />In this gallant engagement, Capt. Salaria killed 40 of the enemy and knocked out the two armoured cars. This unexpectedly bold action completely demoralised the enemy who fled despite his numerical superiority and protected positions. Capt. Salaria was wounded by a burst of automatic fire in his neck but continued to fight till he collapsed owing to profuse bleeding. Capt. Salaria's gallant action had prevented any movement of the enemy force towards the main battalion's action at the roundabout. It had also prevented the encirclement of UN Headquarters in Elizabethville. Capt. Salaria subsequently died of his wounds. Capt. Salaria's personal example, utter disregard for his personal safety and dauntless leadership inspired his small but gallant force of 26 Gorkhas to hold on to their position, dominate the enemy and inflict heavy casualties despite the enemy's superiority in numbers and tactical position.<br /><br />Capt. Salaria's leadership, courage, unflinching devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety were in the best traditions of our army and he was awarded Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry medal, posthumously.<br /><br /></big></div><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Shaitan.html" title="Shaitan Singh Bhati">Major Shaitan Singh Bhati</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Shaitan"><img alt="" src="http://indianarmy.nic.in/PVC/arimage/Maj%20Saitan%20Singh.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 155px; height: 192px;" /></a><a href="image:Shaitan" jpg="" class="internal" title="Shaitan Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big> </big><div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br />Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, son of Lt. Col. Hem Singh, was born on 1 December 1924, at village Banasar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He was commissioned in the Kumaon Regiment on 1 August, 1949.<br /><br />During the 1962 Indo-China conflict, 13 Kumaon was deployed in Chushul sector. The 'C' Coy of the battalion led by Major Shaitan Singh held a crucial position at Rezang La, at a height of 5000 metres. The company area was defended by five platoon positions and the surrounding terrain isolated it from the rest of the battalion. The expected Chinese attack on Rezang La came on November 18th in the morning. It was the end of a very cold winter night. The icy winds howling through Rezang La were biting and benumbing. In the dim light of the morning, the Chinese were seen advancing through nullahs to attack No.7 and No.8 platoon positions.<br /><br />The Indian troops fell on their prepared positions to face the enemy offensive. At 0500 hours when the visibility improved both platoons opened up on the advancing enemy with rifles, light machine guns, grenades and mortars. The nullahs were littered with dead bodies. The survivors took position behind boulders and the dead bodies. The enemy was not, however, discouraged. They subjected the Indian positions to intense artillery and mortar fire at about 0540 hours. Soon about 350 Chinese troops commenced advance through the nullahs. This time, No.9 Platoon, which held fire till the enemy was within 90 metres opened up with all weapons in their possession. Within minutes, the nullahs were again full of dead bodies. Unsuccessful in frontal attack, the enemy, approximately 400 strong, then attacked from the rear of the company position. They simultaneously opened intense medium machine gun fire on No.8 Platoon. This attack was contained at the barbed wire fencing of the post. The enemy then resorted to heavy artillery and mortar shelling. An assault group of 120 Chinese also charged No.7 Platoon position from the rear. However, Indian 3-inch mortar killed many of them. When 20 survivors charged the post, about a dozen Kumaonis rushed out of their trenches to engage them in a hand-to-hand combat. Meanwhile, the enemy brought up fresh reinforcements. The encirclement of No.7 Platoon was now complete. The platoon, however, fought valiantly till there was no survivor. No.8 Platoon also fought bravely to the last round.<br /><br />Major Shaitan Singh, the Company Commander, displayed exemplary leadership and courage in the battle of Rezang La. He led his troops most admirably. Unmindful of his personal safety he moved from one platoon post to another and encouraged his men to fight. While moving among the posts he was seriously wounded. But he continued to fight along with his men. While he was being evacuated by two of his comrades, the Chinese brought heavy machine gun fire on them. Major Shaitan Singh sensed danger to their lives and ordered them to leave him. They placed him behind a boulder on the slopes of a hill, where he breathed his last. In this action, 109 Kumaonis out of a total of 123 were killed. The Chinese suffered many more in killed. After the war was over, the body of Major Shaitan Singh was found at the same place. It was flown to Jodhpur and cremated with full military honours.<br /><br />Major Shaitan Singh was awarded Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry medal, posthumously, for his leadership and devotion to duty.<br /><br /></big></div><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://indianarmy.nic.in/PVC/photo_19.htm" title="Sanjay Kumar Dogra">Rifleman Sanjay Kumar Dogra </a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://indianarmy.nic.in/PVC/arimage/RFN%20Sanjay%20Kumar.jpg" style="width: 160px; height: 190px;" /></span><a href="image:Sanjay_dogra.jpg" class="internal" title="Sanjay_Dogra.jpg"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big> </big><div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br />Rifleman Sanjay Kumar was born at village Bakain, Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh.<br /><br />Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, 13 JAK Rifles, was the leading Scout of a team tasked to capturing Area Flat Top on 04 July 1999 being held by Pakistani-backed militants. Having scaled the cliff, the team was pinned down by machine gun fire from an enemy bunker, 150 meters away. Rifleman Kumar, realizing the magnitude of the problem and the detrimental effect this bunker would have in the capture of Area Flat Top, displayed extraordinary courage. Without concern for personal safety, he crawled alone up the ledge, along a flank, and charged towards the enemy bunker, through a hail of automatic fire. Almost instantly he took two bullets in his chest and forearm. Bleeding profusely from the bullet wounds, he continued the charge towards the bunker. Unhesitant, he then picked up the enemy machine gun and crept towards the second enemy bunker. Three enemy soldiers, taken completely by surprise were killed by him on the spot. Inspired by his dare devil act the rest of the platoon, emotionally charged, assaulted the feature and captured Area Flat Top.<br /><br />For his sustained display of the most conspicuous personal bravery and gallantry of the highest order in the face of the enemy, Rifleman Sanjay Kumar was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest medal for gallantry.<br /></big></div><big> </big></ul> <p><big><a name="Maha_Vir_Chakra_winners_.28Second_highest_gallantry_award_in_India.29" id="Maha_Vir_Chakra_winners_.28Second_highest_gallantry_award_in_India.29"></a></big><big><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Vir_Chakra">Mahavir Chakra</a> winners (Second highest gallantry award in India)<br /></big></p> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/173.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/173.html">Brigadier Rajendra Singh Dogra</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Rajendra"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/134/325109700_37a51530d6_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 159px; height: 183px;" /></a><a href="image:Rajendra" jpg="" class="internal" title="Rajendra Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big> </big><div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br />Brigadier Rajendra Singh, son of Thakur Harnam Singh was born on 25 October 1928 at Rawalpindi (town named after Bappa Rawal of Chittaur). He was Chief of Staff of J&K state forces.<br /><br />In October 1947, Pakistan supported raiders launched an attack on Muzaffarabad in Kashmir. The raiders made a dash for Baramulla and Srinagar. A valiant and courageous rearguard action by Brigadier Rajendra Singh, Chief of Staff of the State Forces, and a handful of his men delayed the advance of the Pakistani army by four crucial days. This gave the Indian Army time to land its troops in Srinagar on the morning of October 27, after Maharajah Hari Singh had signed the Instrument of Accession. Brigadier Rajendra Singh and his men put up a stiff defence even though vastly outnumbered. They were eventually overwhelmed by the raiders' superior numbers and killed. Brigadier Rajendra Singh was the first senior officer to lay down his life for the defence of the country after independence. The Indian Army fought some spirited actions around Srinagar city, the most noteworthy being the battle of Budgam and Shalteng. These actions resulted in the complete rout of the raiders, who were chased by the Indian Army to Uri and beyond.<br /><br />Brigadier Rajendra Singh was awarded Mahavir Chakra, posthumously for his outstanding leadership, courage and sense of duty.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc66.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc66.html">Sepoy Dewan Singh</a></big></li> <big><br />Sepoy Dewan, son of Shri Udai Singh was born on 4 March 1923, at village Purdam, Tejam, Pithoragarh, Uttar Pradesh. He joined 4 Kumaon Regiment on 4 March 1943.<br /><br />On 3rd November 1947, 700 Pakistani raiders suddenly attacked a company of 4 Kumaon Regiment in Badgam area in Kashmir. One of the platoons came under heavy fire and orders went out to the platoon commander to withdraw. But the commander could not comply. The enemy was too close. If the platoon attempted to withdraw, the soldiers would be exposed to enemy fire. As the commander wondered what he should do, his gunner Sepoy Dewan Singh, realizing that they were in desperate situation, picked up his bren gun and began firing, with such deadly accuracy and speed that the enemy left behind at least 15 dead and was forced to fall back. This enabled the beleaguered platoon to effect a quick withdrawal. When the enemy realized that the platoon had withdrawn and there was only one man left, they concentrated their fire on him but to their chagrin lone gunner kept on firing, keeping them pinned down. Finally a bullet found it's mark and the brave sepoy's gun fell silent.<br /><br />Sepoy Dewan Singh was awarded the Mahavir Chakra posthumously for his exceptional courage, gallantry and devotion to duty.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc76.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc76.html">Major Khushhal Chand</a></big></li> <big><br />Major Khushhal Chand was born on 26 September 1909. His family later moved and settled in village Geysnur, Keylong, Himachal Pradesh. He was commissioned in the Dogra Regiment on 15 September 1941. Subsequently he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.<br /><br />In January 1948, Ladakh lay largely unprotected and the Pakistani raiders were gradually closing in on it. Major Khushhal Chand was sent to delay the advance of the enemy. This the major did with great skill and ingenuity, using guerrilla tactics. He would strike and retreat and then strike again somewhere else, making the enemy think there was a large Indian force in the area. He delayed the enemy advance on Leh along the Indus valley for four months. On one ocassion he and a sepoy held the Khaltsi bridge for 24 hrs. In the night while the sepoy kept firing, he set fire to the bridge, leaving the enemy stranded on the other side. The major's tactics slowed down the progress of the enemy and gave the Indian army time to organise the defence of Ladakh. Throughout these operations Major Chand fought without adequate rations, weapons and ammunition and led his small band to success with great vigour and skill.<br /><br />Major Khushhal Chand was awarded the Mahavir Chakra.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/162.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/162.html">Lieutenant Kishan Singh Rathore</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/144/325109698_7190307e7f_o.jpg" style="width: 119px; height: 136px;" /><br /><br />Lieutenant Kishan Singh Rathore was born on 1 October 1929, in Bikaner, Rajasthan. He was commissioned in the Rajput Regiment on 13 October, 1946. Subsequently he rose to the rank of Colonel in the Indian Army.<br /><br />On 6th February 1948, Lieutenant Kishan Singh Rathor and 70 men of the Rajput regiment deployed at Tain Dhar were attacked by 1500 Pakistani intruders. The Lieutenant inspired his soldiers by moving among them in the pickets. On several occasions he personally carried the ammunition to the pickets braving the incessant enemy fire. His exemplary leadership enabled the Indians to hold on.<br /><br />In March, Lt. Rathor was deployed as an intelligence officer at Koman Gosha Dhar. When the Indian position came under intense enemy fire, Lt. Rathor led a platoon attack on the enemy's left to ease the pressure. When one of the men was hurt the Lieutenant showed great bravery by going to retrieve the body of his fallen comrade. Again a month later, on 9 April 1949, he led his platoon to Jhangar. 350 metres short of objective he was caught under heavy enemy fire. There were two alternatives before him -- to withdraw or advance. He chose the later and in a successful bayonet charge compelled the Pakistanis to retreat.<br /><br />Lieutenant Rathore was awarded the Mahavir Chakra for conspicuous bravery.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc126.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc126.html">Brigadier Yadunath Singh Bhati</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/141/325102464_a9caa6cbc2_o.jpg" style="width: 110px; height: 119px;" /><br /><br />Brigadier Yadunath Singh, son of Colonel Gridhari Singh, was born on 11 February 1907, in Rajasthan. He was commissioned in the 4 Kumaon Regiment on 30 August, 1928. He rose to the rank of Major General.<br /><br />All through the summer of 1948, Brigadier Yadunath Singh of the Kumaon Regiment displayed exemplary leadership skills during the Indian army's operations in Kashmir. On 5th March 1948, the Brigadier led the 19 Infantry Brigade in a top secret mission for the recapture of Jhangar. The rivers and nullahs were in full spate due to heavy rain and the enemy kept up continual firing. Undaunted, he crossed the overflowing Jambir Nullah, at the very head of his Battalion and succeeded in establishing a bridge head, which greatly assisted the Indian Army's operations in that area.<br /><br />In April, the Brigadier was involved in the capture of Rajauri. Despite a sprained ankle, he remained in the thick of battle, constantly encouraging his men. His leadership was evident in the Indian army's successes in later operations at Barwali Ridge, when he effected a link up with the Indian Battalion at Punch, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy.<br /><br />In recognition of his bravery and leadership skills he was honoured with the Mahavir Chakra.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/169.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/169.html">Major Thakur Prithi Chand</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/136/325102462_748bffb7b4_o.jpg" style="width: 156px; height: 191px;" /><br /><br />Major Thakur Prithi Chand, son of Rai Bhadur Thakur Amar Chand, was born on 1 January 1911, in village Rangri, Manali, Himachal Pradesh. He was commissioned in the Dogra Regiment. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.<br /><br />On the 8th of March 1948, Major Thakur Prithi Chand and his men completed their arduous three week march to Leh. Their mission was to raise and train a local militia that would defend Ladakh against imminent Pakistani intrusions. By May, a 200-strong Indian force was in place but the Pakistani supported raiders had overrun most of Baltistan and Kargil. To contain the enemy advance towards Leh along the Indus and Nubra river valleys, the major resorted to guerrilla warfare tactics. His daring raids and ambushes confused the enemy and slowed them down. On one ocassion, the raiders supported by the howitzers attacked one of the Indian forward pickets in Leh forward post. Soon after, the Major led his men deep into enemy territory and successfully destroyed an enemy howitzer. Major Thakur Prithi Chand and his loyal force played a major role in defending Ladakh.<br /><br />The gallant officer was awarded the Mahavir Chakra for his inspiring leadership, courage and bravery.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/dhonkalsingh-MC.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/dhonkalsingh-MC.htm">Rifleman Dhonkal Singh</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Dhonkal"><img alt="" src="http://rajputsamaj.net/images/dhonkal.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 142px; height: 201px;" /></a><a href="image:Dhonkal" jpg="" class="internal" title="Dhonkal Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />Rifleman Dhonkal Singh, son of Shri Simrath Singh, was born on 1 December 1923, in village Sekala, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He joined 6 Rajputana Rifles on 1 December 1944.<br /><br />On 29th April,1948, 6 Raj Rif was ordered to capture a feature overlooking the Nalwa picket ('Uri Ka Morcha') with a view to strengthen the defence of Uri. Rifleman Dhonkal Singh who was guiding his platoon as the leading scout received serious injury to his left shoulder when his platoon came under heavy LMG fire. Despite the serious injury the brave soldier crawled forward to the flank of the enemy and when within a few metres of the post destroyed it with a hand grenade. Three enemy personnel were killed and the rest abandoned the post and ran back. While pursuing some of the fleeing enemy soldiers he was again hit by grenade splinters in the face and chest. He began bleeding profusely and he knew his end was near. Summoning all his last reserves of energy he flung a grenade and killed two of the enemy, including their commander. Then he fell down dead. His bravery enabled his company to capture the strategic post without further loss of life.<br /><br />For his supreme sacrifice, Dhonkal Singh was awarded Mahavir Chakra, posthumously.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Nar.html" class="external text" title="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Nar.html">Naik Nar Singh</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/134/325119468_c483787e06_o.jpg" style="width: 138px; height: 130px;" /><br /><br />Naik Nar Singh, son of Shri Uttam Singh was born on 14 March 1926 in village Gangolakatuli, Almora, Uttar Pradesh. He was enrolled in 4 Kumaon on 14 March 1944.<br /><br />During the 1947-48 Jammu & Kashmir operations, the build-up of the Pakistani forces in the Chakothi area of Handwara sector in May 1948 was a matter of great concern for the Indian commanders. The enemy was holding the area in brigade strength. To meet this threat, 77 Para Brigade was moved to Pandu area, to operate north of Jhelum, so as to cut the enemy line of communication and harass them on the rear. In these operations, 4 Kumaon was ordered to capture the hill feature, Master, north of Jhelum. It was a narrow and steep feature, much like a pyramid, covered with dense pine forest on one side. The other side was barren. The approach to it lay along a very narrow and bridle path. The enemy was holding it with 1 Coy, 1 MMG section and 1 mortar section. The approach to the position was covered by the enemy with 2 MMGs and 6 LMGs.<br /><br />The advantage lay with the enemy because they occupied a higher ground. During this operation, Naik Nar Singh commanded a section. The attack commenced at 0530 hours. But owing to the lack of space for manoeuvring and intense enemy fire, the 'B' Company could make no progress. During the second assault an enemy bullet hit Naik Nar Singh on the right shoulder blade. A stream of blood started flowing out of his body. The matter was reported to the Platoon Commander who advised him to evacuate. The Company Commander also ordered him not to take part in the third assault. But he maintained a stoic silence. During the third attempt on Master feature, Naik Nar Singh's section led the assault. As the troops started moving out of the concentration area he quietly slipped out and took over the command of his section. While on the lead he spotted an enemy LMG. He encouraged his comrades in his faint voice to push on, "Kumaoni Ke Bachho Jan Chale Jae, Lekin Dushman Ke Aj Tukre-Tukre Kar Dalo, Piche Nahi Hatna." (Oh, the Children of Kumaon worry not even if your life goes, but cut the enemy into pieces today, do not retreat).<br /><br />Then firing his sten gun, Naik Nar Singh jumped into the enemy bunker, bayoneted two of the gunners and captured the gun. In this attack the enemy was totally routed. The Master hill feature was in Kumaoni hands by 1130 hours. Many guns, rifles and a large quantity of ammunition and stores were captured. The enemy suffered 20 killed and 20 injured. Indian troops suffered 2 killed and 7 wounded. Meanwhile, Naik Nar Singh had suffered heavy loss of blood and was found dead in the enemy bunker lying on top of his two victims, holding fast a bren gun he had captured from the enemy.<br /><br />Naik Nar Singh was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty, posthumously.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/kamansingh.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/kamansingh.htm">Lieutenant Colonel Kaman Singh Pathania</a><br /></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/144/325119477_bb066d4814_o.jpg" style="width: 132px; height: 160px;" /><br /><br />Lt. Col. Kaman Singh, son of Dafadar Vijay Singh Pathania (Vijay Singh served with 23 Cavalry during Mesopotamia campaign in WW1), was born on 23 April 1917, at Ladori, Nurpur, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. He was commissioned in the Garhwal Rifles on 22 December, 1940. Two of his sons fought during the Indo-Pak War of 1971.<br /><br />On 18 May 1948, during Kashmir Ops, 3rd Battalion, Garhwal Rifles was given the task of securing Tragham ridge. Two companies had moved out at night with the object of securing ring contour behind the ridge and advancing on from the rear, while the 3rd company launched a frontal attack, supported by armoured cars, from the base at Pethahir. Lt. Col. Kaman Singh was himself leading this attack. No sooner his company had started advance it encountered very heavy resistance from lower features and around the Pethahir position. The latter position was being monitored and sniped constantly. Owing to bridges having been destroyed by the enemy the progress of the armoured cars was very slow and they consequently could not support the attack very effectively. At times it looked as if the advance might be held up. At about 1100 hrs news was received that owing to a loss of surprise the 2 company attack on the ring contour had been held up short of the objective and that they were now completely surrounded by the enemy. Early establishment of contact with these coys became imperative. There were no reserves available. Lt.Col. Kaman Singh pressed on with the attack and assured his senior officers that come what might, he would capture the ridge and establish contact with the other Coys. He then himself went up to the forward position and lead the attack personally, organizing and cheering his men with encouragement, himself in the forefront. He pressed on to the enemy positions with such boldness and determination that enemy was forced to evacuate them one by one suffering heavy casualties. The ridge was captured and contact with Coys established before the end of the day. It was inspiring leadership, great personal courage and dogged determination on the part of Lt. Col. Singh that carried the day against very heavy odds.<br /><br />Again, on June 17 1948 his Battalion (less 2 coys) was given the task of carrying out a raid on a strongly held position on Buni ridge beyond Tithwal. He was leading the advance with forward Coy when at about 0400 hrs they surprised the enemy and killed 20 of them capturing 2 prisoners. This completely demoralized the enemy which fled in confusion. Lt. Col. Singh pressed on with the leading Coy into the enemy defences and captured a prominent feature, which was later discovered to be enemy Coy and Battalion TAC HQ. The attack although uphill was carried out with such dash and speed that enemy fled leaving behind many dead and wounded. Lt. Col. Singh was now far and ahead of his 2nd Coy. and he therefore decided to take up a defensive position on the feature. Before the 2nd coy could arrive the enemy having rallied put in three successive counter attacks with large numbers. All these attacks were repulsed by the Coy with heavy losses to the enemy, including one Lt. Col. killed. Although his men were now running short of ammunition Lt. Col. Singh held on to the position. In this action once again. Lt. Col. Singh displayed a fine example of inspiring leadership, high sense of duty and great personal courage. Throughout the Op, Lt. Col. Kaman Singh's handling of his battalion was very sound and his leadership and personal example of courage and determination of a very high order. As a mark of respect to the brave Colonel, the last Indian post on the Srinagar-Muzzafarabad road was named Kaman Post and the bridge was named Kaman Setu (Bridge).<br /><br />Lt. Col. Kaman Singh was awarded Mahavir Chakra for his conspicuous gallantry.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/167.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/167.html">Lt. Col. Anant Singh Pathania</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Anant"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/137/325109703_7888a986da_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 156px; height: 186px;" /></a><a href="image:Anant" singh="" jpg="" class="internal" title="Anant Singh Pathania"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />Lt. Col. Anant Singh, son of Lt. Col. Raghubir Singh Pathania, was born on 25 May 1913, at village Re, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. He was commissioned in 5 Gorkha Rifles on 3 February, 1945. He subsequently rose to the rank of Major General.<br /><br />In November 1948, the Indian army's advance towards Drass and Kargil sector was hindered by the enemy presence at Pindras gorge. To overcome this a two-pronged attack was planned to effect a breakthrough. The 1/5 Gorkha commanded by Lt. Col. Anant Singh Pathania was deployed to capture the ridge ahead of Pindras, on the north of the Gumri Nala. This long ridge was divided into two objectives viz. Kumar and Anant. It is said that the battle waged by the Lt. Col. and his men was one of the hardest ever fought during the Jammu and Kashmir operations. The Lt. Col. not only led several reconnaissance missions but also pressed home the attack on the enemy on 14th November. Despite the heavy enemy machine gun fire, the 1/5 Gorkhas forged ahead, ultimately capturing both features, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. The victory was attributed to the Lt. Col.'s daring reconnaissance of enemy positions on the eve of battle. Throughout the reconnaissance stage and during the attack, this officer personally led his men. He was a source of great encouragement to his men.<br /><br />Lt. Col. Anant Singh Pathania was honoured with the Mahavir Chakra for his exceptional gallantry and leadership.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/32.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/32.html">Second Lieutenant Bhagwan Dutt Dogra<br /></a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/140/325102461_48fc287808_o.jpg" style="width: 180px; height: 236px;" /><br /><br />Second Lieutenant Bhagwan Dutt Dogra, son of Shri Dewan Chand was born on 25 September 1941, at Lahore. He was commissioned in 9 Gorkha Rifles on 10 June, 1962.<br /><br />Second Lieutenant Dogra was posted on the left flank of the battalion that guarded the track leading to the position held by the Gorkha Rifles in the Tsangdhar area NEFA. The Chinese subjected his position to heavy shelling on the morning of 20th October, before attacking in force. The officer moved from bunker to bunker enthusing and inspiring his men. He suffered a grievous injury in the process but continued fighting. When his gunner was hit he took over the light machine gun and used it to devastating effect. Ultimately the Chinese destroyed the gun and 2nd Lt Dogra was captured.<br /><br />His daring act and inspiring leadership won him the Mahavir Chakra.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc33.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc33.html">Brig Sher Pratap Singh Shrikent</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Sher_Singh"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/139/325109696_37e6ed7525_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 155px; height: 183px;" /></a><a href="image:Sher_Singh" jpg="" class="internal" title="Sher Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />Major S.P.S. Shrikent, son of Dr. S. S. Shrikent, was born on 12 June 1929, at Dinapur, Bihar. He was commissioned in 9 Gorkha Rifles on 10 December, 1950. Subsequently, he rose to the rank of Brigadier.<br /><br />He was the adjutant of his regiment in NEFA when on 20th October 1962 the Chinese overran and surrounded the battalion headquarters. Major Shrikent, finding the situation desperate, snatched a sten gun from an orderly, rallied the few survivors of the battalion headquarters, gallantly charged the enemy with complete disregard for his personal safety and inflicted heavy losses on the advancing Chinese.<br /><br />In this action, Major Shrikent displayed courage and leadership of a high order for which he was awarded Mahavir Chakra.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/148.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/148.html">Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Jaswant"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/143/326264829_743a10debd_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 148px; height: 180px;" /></a><a href="image:Jaswant" singh="" jpg="" class="internal" title="Jaswant Singh Rawat"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat</span>, son of Shri Guman Singh Rawat, was born on 19 August 1941, at village Baryun, Pauri Garhwal, Uttar Pradesh. He joined Garhwal Rifles on 19 August, 1960.<br /><br />During the 1962 war with China, the 4 Garhwal defended bridge No.3 near Nuranang along India's northeast frontier. Early on 17th November, the Chinese launched two successive attacks to dislodge the Indians from this position. But the Indians held on. The third attack was a three-pronged one, supported by heavy mortar and artillery fire. A medium machine gun threatened the defences of the Garhwal platoon. Rifleman Rawat and two others, a Lance Naik and another Rifleman volunteered to destroy the machine gun. As the Lance Naik provided covering fire, Rifleman Rawat and his companion hurled grenades, that killed and wounded some Chinese soldiers. Rawat then rushed forward and snatched the gun from the Chinese. However, while returning, he was struck fatally on the head by enemy fire. He died holding the gun he had captured.<br /><br />Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat was awarded the Mahavir Chakra posthumously for his exceptional courage and initiative.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc95.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc95.html">Captain Chander Narain Singh</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/138/325109693_d21b19b9df_o.jpg" style="width: 152px; height: 196px;" /><br /><br /><span class="external text">Captain Chander Narain Singh</span>, son of Captain Balwant Singh, was born on 2 July 1939, at Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttar Pradesh. He was commissioned in Garhwal Rifles on 11 June, 1961. His uncle retired as Major General of Indian army.<br /><br />On 5th August 1965, Pakistani army infiltration was sighted in Poonch, close to the Infantry Brigade headquarters. Immediately, a patrol commanded by Captain Chander Narain Singh was dispatched to locate and liquidate them. Barely an hour later, the patrol halfway up a hill range encountered savage Pakistani machine gun fire. Despite losing one man in this initial skirmish Captain Singh moved towards the enemy's flank. Two light machine guns were effectively silenced.<br /><br />Captain Singh commenced his final attack at night. He led his small band of men in the charge to within 50 metres of the enemy when he was killed by a burst of machine gun fire. However his men continued the attack and liquidated the enemy, capturing large quantities of arms and ammunition in the process.<br /><br />For his heroism, Captain Chander Narain Singh was decorated with the Mahavir Chakra posthumously.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/raghubirsingh.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/raghubirsingh.htm">Lieutenant Colonel Raghubir Singh Rajawat</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Raghubir"><img alt="" src="http://rajputsamaj.net/images/raghuveersingh1-MC.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 142px; height: 190px;" /></a><a href="image:Raghubir" singh="" jpg="" class="internal" title="Raghubir Singh Rajawat"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Lieutenant Colonel Raghubir Singh Rajawat</span>, son of Shri Pratap Singh, was born on 2 November 1923, at Sheora, Jaipur, Rajasthan. He was commissioned in Rajputana Rifles on 18 April, 1943. Subsequently he rose to the rank of Brigadier.<br /><br />Lt. Col. Raghubir Singh was commanding a battalion of the Rajputana Rifles Regiment during the battle of Asal Uttar. Between 7 and 10 September 1965, the unit was attacked by Pakistani forces. On 9th September at 2100 hours, in moonlight, the enemy forces launched a ferocious attack with tanks and managed to overrun the forward company positions. Lt. Col. Raghubir Singh, anticipating the enemy's assault, left his command post and regardless of personal safety moved up to those companies past three enemy tanks. He entered the positions under intense enemy artillery fire and established contact with the company commanders.<br /><br />This example of courage, determination and leadership on the part of the Commanding Officer inspired the men to defy the enemy tanks and under his command they destroyed 20 enemy tanks.<br /><br />For his outstanding bravery Lt. Col. Rajawat was awarded Mahavir Chakra.<br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/105.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/105.html">Major Anup Singh Guhilote</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/135/325102460_c023198129_o.jpg" style="width: 122px; height: 146px;" /><br /><br /><span class="external text">Major Anup Singh Guhilote</span>, son of Lt. Col. Dalel Singh, was born on 19 September 1940, at Nangloi village, Delhi. He was commissioned in Dogra Regiment on 11 December, 1962.<br /><br />Dogra regiment was deployed in Laksham in the east, during the battle of 1971. The regiment's mission was to move into enemy-held territory on the night of 3rd December, and put up road-blocks all along the Chauddagram-Laksham road. By the first light of dawn the next day, the regiment accomplished this under Major Gahlaut's command. The next day, two companies of the Dogra regiment surged ahead and had two enemy platoons trapped. The Pakistanis, refusing to surrender, engaged the Indian troops in a bitter battle. Major Gahlaut led one platoon from the front, but was surprised by an unexpected enemy attack from the rear. He, however, rallied his troops, urging them to beat back the enemy. There was a fierce hand to hand fight. The major sustained grievous wounds but refused to give in. Though bleeding profusely, he fought on. The Pakistanis were finally beaten back. The exhausted Major collapsed on the battlefield, and died shortly thereafter.<br /><br />For displaying exemplary leadership Major Gahlaut was awarded Mahavir Chakra, posthumously.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc44.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc44.html">Lieutenant Colonel Rajkumar Singh</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Rajkumar_Singh"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/138/325109690_f0f4605bca_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 138px; height: 186px;" /></a><a href="image:Rajkumar_Singh" jpg="" class="internal" title="Rajkumar Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Lieutenant Colonel Rajkumar Singh</span>, son of B.S.Thakur, was born on 25 December 1934, at village Bharaut, Merrut, Uttar Pradesh. He was commissioned in Punjab Regiment on 4 December, 1954. Subsequently he rose to the rank of Brigadier.<br /><br />During the Indo-Pak war in November 1971, Lt Col Rajkumar Singh commanded a battalion of 14 Punjab Regiment. On 20 November he was assigned the task of occupying a defended position in the area Garibpur-Jaganathpur on the Eastern Front to contain the enemy intruding into the Indian territory. He planned and organised the defences held by his battalion with great skill and professional competence. The enemy attacked the area with two infantry battalions and a squadron of tanks. Lt Col Rajkumar Singh directed his troops with great courage and confidence. With utter disregard for his personal safety, he moved from one company locality to another inspiring his junior commanders and troops. The enemy launched three determined attacks but all were beaten back with heavy losses. Pakistanis left 350 dead behind. Indian army lost 90 men. Throughout, Lt Col Rajkumar Singh displayed conspicuous courage, exemplary leadership and professional skill.<br /><br />He was awarded Mahavir Chakra for his bravery on the battlefield.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/122.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/122.html">Major Basdev Singh Mankotia</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/141/325119471_a02617abb3_o.jpg" style="width: 146px; height: 182px;" /><br /><br /><span class="external text">Major Basdev Singh Mankotia</span>, son of S.B. Rai Singh Mankotia, was born on 16 April 1941, at village Sidhpur Garh, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. He was commissioned in Punjab Regiment on 11 December, 1962. His father, grand father and great grand father had served Indian Army with distinction.<br /><br />During the Indo-Pak war in December 1971, Major Basdev Singh Mankotia commanded the outpost of Ranian Screen that guarded the approach to Amritsar. On 3rd December, Pakistan launched the first of its attempts to capture Ranian. Supported by heavy artillery fire, the Pakistanis advanced rapidly.<br /><br />When they were nearly 50 meters away, the shrewd Major directed the full force of his mortar and artillery fire on the enemy, who taken by surprise, beat a hasty retreat. The second attack was also repulsed. Even as they advanced a third time, the major led a fierce counter-attack to repulse them, but sustained severe injuries. Refusing evacuation he persisted till the enemy had been driven back. Over the next few nights, the Indians were subjected to Pakistani artillery and air attacks, but the Major stood firm despite being wounded and running temperature, foiling all these attempts to capture Ranian. In all, seven enemy attacks were repulsed by him.<br /><br />For his heroic defence of Ranian, Major Basdev Singh Mankotia was awarded the Mahavir Chakra.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/bhawani.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/bhawani.htm">Lieutenant Colonel Maharajah Sawai Bhawani Singh Rajawat</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Bhawani"><img alt="" src="http://uqconnect.net/%7Ezzhsoszy/ips/j/bhawani.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 305px; height: 389px;" /></a><a href="image:Bhawani" jpg="" class="internal" title="Bhawani Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /></big> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Lt. Col. Sawai Bhawani Singh, of Jaipur is the eldest son of late Maharajah Sawai Man Singh II of Jaipur. Born on 22nd October 1931, Sawai Bhawani Singh received education in Kashmir, Dehradun and then in United Kingdom.<br /><br />In 1951, Sawai Bhawani Singh, was commissioned into Indian Army in the 3rd Cavalry Regiment as a Second Lieutenant. In 1954, he was selected for the Presidents Bodyguard. In 1963 he was posted to HQ 50 (Indep) Para Brigade. From January 1964-1967, he was selected and posted as Adjutant, Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. In June 1967, he volunteered for the new Para Commando Unit and was posted to 10 Para Commando as 2nd-in-command. The following year he became the commanding officer. In 1970, he helped in training the Mukti Vahini before the commencement of the Bangladesh war.<br /><br />On the night of 5 December 1971, Lt. Col. Sawai Bhawani Singh, who was commanding a battalion of the Parachute Regiment (commandos), led his men deep into the enemy territory and for four days and nights, with complete disregard for his personal comfort and safety, made skillful and relentless raids on the strongly held enemy posts at Chachro and Virawah. His inspired leadership and personal courage led to the capture of large areas of the enemy territory and created panic and confusion among the enemy, forcing him to retreat leaving behind large number of prisoners and equipment. In this operation, Lt. Col. Sawai Bhawani Singh set an example of personal courage, exceptional qualities of leadership and devotion to duty in the highest traditions of the Indian Army. He was awarded Mahavir Chakra for his gallantry. His Battalion also got 10 gallantry awards for their action in these operations. He took voluntary retirement in 1974.<br /><br />When Indian Army was in action in Sri Lanka under operation Pawan at the request of then President, Prime Minister Mr. Rajiv Gandhi requested Maharajah Sawai Bhawani Singh to go to Sri Lanka and boost the morale of his old unit (10 Para). He was successful in boosting the morale of the unit and for his success, the President of India bestowed upon him the rank of Brigadier for life. This is a rare offer when a retired Army personnel has been given a promotion in rank. Besides, Brig Sawai Bhawani Singh has also served as the first Resident High Commissioner to the State of Brunei from July 1993 to January 1997.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc104.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc104.html">Major Jaivir Singh</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/144/325119494_92a9326d58_o.jpg" style="width: 151px; height: 174px;" /><br /><br /><span class="external text">Major Jaivir Singh,</span> son of Thakur Jai Chand Singh, was born on 25 December 1940, at village Kalai, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh. He was commissioned in Sikh Regiment on 30 June, 1963.<br /><br />Major Jaivir Singh was deployed in Chhamb on the western front during the Indo-Pak war. His company defended the crucial Phagia Ridge position.<br /><br />From the 3rd of December, the enemy began first of its offensives, to dislodge the Indian forces there. The first attack was successfully repulsed, but the Pakistani troops returned with a stronger force the next day. They penetrated through Indian defence and soon a bitter hand to hand fight ensued. The brave Major exhorted his men to remain steadfast. The Pakistanis were held back for the second time with a loss of twelve lives.<br /><br />The fighting was at its fiercest on December 5th . The Sikh regiment suffered heavy casualties, but led by a determined Major Singh, they not only repulsed the advance but recaptured the post on the Ridge lost earlier, Major Singh's inspiring leadership and shrewd planning had outwitted the enemy.<br /><br />Major Jaivir singh was awarded the Mahavir Chakra for his exemplary leadership and courage.<br /><br /></big></div> <big> </big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/chandansingh.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/chandansingh.htm">Group Captain Chandan Singh Champawat</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Chandan"><img alt="" src="http://rajputsamaj.net/images/chandansingh-mvc.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 141px; height: 191px;" /></a><a href="image:Chandan" jpg="" class="internal" title="Chandan Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Group Captain Chandan Singh Champawat</span>, son of Colonel Bhadur Singh, was born on 8 July 1924, at Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He was commissioned in Indian Air Force on 27 July, 1946. Subsequently he rose to the rank of Air Vice-Marshall.<br /><br />During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, Group Captain Chandan Singh was in command of an air force station on the eastern front. He had to coordinate and oversee operations involving the airlifting of commando troops to forward areas. On 8 December he was asked to airdrop 3000 troops and 40 tons of army equipment into a heavily defended enemy area. The reconnaissance missions he had led to the area, prior to the operation, helped him plan the details of his action and carried them out successfully.<br /><br />As the war progressed he led over 18 such missions deep into the enemy territory. There were several occasions when his aircraft was hit. His airborne operations played a crucial role in the Indian army's successful advance to Chaka and its subsequent capture.<br /><br />Group Captain Singh was decorated with the Mahavir Chakra for his exceptional drive, determination, courage and inspiring leadership.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/sugansingh.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/sugansingh.htm">Naik Sugan Singh Rathore</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Sugan"><img alt="" src="http://rajputsamaj.net/images/sugansingh.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 152px; height: 207px;" /></a><a href="image:Sugan" singh="" jpg="" class="internal" title="Sugan Singh Rathore"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Naik Sugan Singh Rathore</span> son of Shri Abhay Singh, was born on 6 March 1942, at Nagaur, Rajasthan. He joined Rajputana Rifles on 6 March, 1962.<br /><br />The inability of the Pakistani Dictator Yahya Khan to tide over his political failure in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) caused him to provoke a war with India. As the opening shot of this war Gen. Yahya Khan's Air Force conducted a pre-emptive strike on Indian airfields. Barely had the Pakistanis returned from their pre-emptive strikes on 3rd December, 7th Rajputana Rifles quickly captured Dhallai an enemy post on Tripura border. On 9/10 December the battalion was involved in a ferocious battle for Mynamati ridge with a view to facilitate the capture of Mynamati Cantonment of the enemy. Advance of Naik Rathore's section was held up due to spirited MMG and small arms fire of the enemy. Naik Sugan Singh could not tolerate this affront. He boldly charged the enemy MMG post and destroyed it. In this charge he was badly hit on the shoulder. Profusely bleeding he still crawled to the second enemy MMG post and hurled a grenade killing three occupants and silencing the gun. Seriously wounded he died on account of his injuries.<br /><br />For his gallant and sustained action in the face of the enemy, he was awarded Maha Vir Chakra. The unit also earned two Vir Chakras and battle honour Mynamati.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc115.html" class="external text" title="http://www.geocities.com/siafdu/amvc115.html">Lance Naik Drig Pal Singh Rathore</a></big></li> <big> <img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/139/325102456_de1335b88a_o.jpg" style="width: 137px; height: 171px;" /><br /><br /><span class="external text">Lance Naik Drig Pal Singh Rathore</span> son of Shri Sunder Singh <span class="external text">Rathore</span>, was born on 23 December 1945, at Naugma, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. He joined Rajputana Rifles on 23 December 1965.<br /><br />During the 1971 Indo-Pak war, Lance Naik Drig Pal Singh and the 15 Rajput Regiment participated in the battle of Fazilka. Two enemy medium machine guns located in the enemy bunkers claimed several Indian lives.<br /><br />On the night of 13th December, determined to silence these guns, the Lance Naik, accompanied by two men, crawled towards the bunkers. He hurled a grenade that completely destroyed one machine gun, he was struck on the left shoulder by a burst of gun fire. He continued advancing but a second round of fire struck him on the chest, killing him instantly. His action, however had not been in vain. The enemy was compelled to beat a hasty retreat, leaving behind a large cache of arms.<br /><br />Lance Naik Drig Pal Singh was honoured posthumously with the Mahavir Chakra.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/hanutsingh.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/hanutsingh.htm">L</a><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/hanutsingh.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/hanutsingh.htm"><span class="external text">ieutenant Colonel</span></a><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/hanutsingh.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/hanutsingh.htm"> Hanut Singh Rathore</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Hanut"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/140/325119497_f64be26cac_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 156px; height: 185px;" /></a><br /></big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Lieutenant Colonel Hanut Singh Rathore</span>, son of Lt. Col. Arjun Singh, was born on 6 July 1933, at Jasol, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He was commissioned in Poona Horse (17 Horse) on 28 December, 1952. Subsequently he rose to the rank of Lieutenant General.<br /><br />During the Indo-Pak war in December 1971, Lt. Col. Hanut Singh was commanding 17 Horse in Shakargarh Sector of the Western Front. The Indian forces fought some of its toughest battles in the Shakargarh sector against Pakistani forces during the 1971 war. On 16th December, his regiment was inducted into the Basantar river bridgehead and took up positions ahead of the infantry. The enemy launched a number of armoured attacks in strength on 16 and 17 December. Undeterred by enemy medium artillery and tank fire, Lt. Col. Hanut Singh moved from one threatened sector to another with utter disregard for his personal safety, inspiring his men to remain steadfast. Not only was the enemy armour attack repulsed, 48 of their tanks were destroyed. His presence and cool courage inspired his men to remain steadfast and perform commendable acts of gallantry. Throughout this period, Lt. Col. Hanut Singh displayed conspicuous gallantry and leadership in keeping with the best traditions of the Army and was awarded Mahavir Chakra. Here Lt. Col. Hanut Singh is seen standing on his Centurion tank, Kooshab.<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img name="Lt. Col. Hanut Singh Rathore of with his Centurion tank, Kooshab." longdesc="" src="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Army/Images/0084.jpg" alt="" style="width: 561px; height: 377px;" /></span><br /><br />17 Poona Horse is one of the most decorated in the Armoured Corps and in 1965 it had already been awarded with one PVC, only to win another in 1971 at the Battle of Basantar in which 48 Pakistani tanks were destroyed. Hanut Singh is the elder brother of former Finance minister of India, Jaswant Singh Jasol (Jasol is the name of the village in Barmer district of Rajasthan). He retired as Lt. General. He is highly religious. He is an acclaimed tactician and authority in Tank Warfare, author of the official history of the Armoured Corps.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/106.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/106.html">Colonel Udai Singh Inda</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Udai"><img alt="" src="http://static.flickr.com/142/325102469_1ffda03853_o.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 114px; height: 138px;" /></a><a href="image:Udai" singh="" jpg="" class="internal" title="Udai Singh Inda"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Colonel Udai Singh,</span> son of Shri Khet Singh, was born on 13 January 1929, at village Garha, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He was commissioned in 8 Gorkha Rifles on 4 June, 1950. Subsequently he rose to the rank of Brigadier. His father had also served in the Jodhpur State Force.<br /><br />Col Udai Singh commanded three companies of the Gorkha Rifles deployed in the biting cold of Kargil in the north.<br /><br />In December 1971, the Colonel and his men were asked to capture Chalunka and Turtok positions. The Colonel led his troops in several nightlong marches across unfamiliar areas at altitudes of 5,500 meters and more, braving subzero temperatures. At one place, they faced a strong enemy force but the colonel and his men completely outmaneuvered it. A large cache of enemy arms and equipment was seized as well. The Gurkha Rifles launched several more attacks on heavily defended enemy positions in the mountains. Despite poor communication facilities and the total absence of any artillery support, Colonel Singh led his men to success.<br /><br />In this operation, spanning over eleven days, the Indian Forces eventually occupied Turtok and areas beyond it. For his skilled leadership and command Colonel Udai Singh was decorated with Mahavir Chakra.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://prideofindia.net/141.html" class="external text" title="http://prideofindia.net/141.html">Captain Pratap Singh</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="" src="http://www.oldsherwoodians.com/greats/_photos/pratap.jpg" style="width: 125px; height: 132px;" /></span><a href="image:Pratap_Singh" jpg="" class="internal" title="Pratap Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br /><span class="external text">Captain Pratap Singh,</span> son of Captain Khazan Singh, was born on 17 January 1960, at Basai Darapur village, Delhi. He was commissioned in the Regiment of Artillery on 27 August, 1983. His father was a decorated soldier of WW 2.<br /><br />Captain Pratap Singh's Regiment was part of the Indian forces that defended Bana outpost against Pakistani forces in the summer of 1988.<br /><br />The enemy had already made several attempts to capture Bana and on 9th May an enemy commando group made a determined attack equipped with ropes and ladders. Though the attack was driven back, enemy ropes and ladders remained in place. They had to be removed to ensure the safety of the outpost. On 18th may Captain Singh accompanied by a jawan descended the wall, to remove the ropes and ladders. At the bottom he found a huge cache of ammunition and grenades. As he was examining his find a grenade suddenly exploded, wounding him in the arms and chest. But the captain completed his mission entrusted to him. He cut the ropes and dislodged the ladder system. Only then did he return to his post where he soon succumbed to his wounds.<br /><br />Captain Pratap Singh was posthumously honoured with the Mahavir Chakra for his devotion to duty and courage.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Adhikari.html" class="external text" title="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Adhikari.html">Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Rajesh_Singh"><img alt="" src="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/HEROISM/Images/Adhikari.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 110px; height: 189px;" /></a><a href="image:Rajesh_Singh" jpg="" class="internal" title="Rajesh Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />On 30 May 1999, as a part of battalion operations to capture the Tololing feature, Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari, 18 Grenadiers (Mech. Inf.) was tasked to secure the initial foothold by capturing its forward spur where the enemy held a strongly fortified advance position. The post was located in a treacherous, mountainous terrain at about 15,000 feet and covered with snow.<br /><br />While Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari was leading his team towards the objective, he was fired at from two mutually supporting bunkers with universal machine guns. The officer immediately directed the rocket launcher detachment to engage the bunker and without waiting, rushed into the bunker and killed two intruders in close quarter combat. Thereafter, the officer, displaying presence of mind under heavy fire, ordered his medium machine gun (MMG) detachment to fix position behind a rocky feature and engage the enemy. The assault party continued to inch their way up. Despite suffering grievous bullet injuries, Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari continued to direct his sub unit. Refusing to be evacuated, the officer charged at the second bunker and killed one more occupant, thus capturing the second bunker at Tololing which later facilitated capture of Point 4590.<br /><br />For conspicuous gallantry and supreme sacrifice, Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari was honoured with the Maha Vir Chakra, posthumously.<br /></big></div> <big> </big></div><big> </big></ul> <p><big><a name="Victoria_Cross_winners" id="Victoria_Cross_winners"></a></big><big><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victoria_Cross" title="Victoria Cross">Victoria Cross</a> winners</big></p> <ul><big> </big><li><big><a href="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/govind.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.rajputsamaj.net/lestweforget/govind.htm">Lance Dafadar Gobind Singh Rathore</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Gobind"><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/32/Gobind_singh.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 106px; height: 167px;" /></a><a href="image:Gobind" singh="" jpg="" class="internal" title="Gobind Singh Rathore"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li><big><br /></big><div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Gobind Singh (7 December 1887 - 9 December 1942) was 29 years old, and a Lance-Dafadar in the 28th Light Cavalry, Indian Army, attached to 2nd Lancers during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.<br /><br />On 1917-12-01 east of Peizieres, France, Lance-Dafadar Gobind Singh three times volunteered to carry messages between the regiment and brigade headquarters, a distance of 1.5 miles (2.4 km) over open ground which was under heavy fire from the enemy. He succeeded each time in delivering the message, although on each occasion his horse was shot and he was compelled to finish the journey on foot. He later achieved the rank of Jemadar. He belongs to Nagaur District of Rajasthan.<br /><br />The medal is currently displayed in his regiment 2nd Lancers (G.H.) in India, and the regiment is currently located at Meerut (U.P.).<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chatta_Singh" class="external text" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chatta_Singh">Chatta Singh</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Chatta"><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/8f/Chatta_singh.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 114px; height: 161px;" /></a><a href="image:Chatta" jpg="" class="internal" title="Chatta Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />Chatta Singh (1886- March 28, 1961) was approx. 29 years old, and a Sepoy in the 9th Bhopal Infantry, Indian Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.<br /><br />On 13 January 1916 during the Battle of the Wadi, Mesopotamia, Sepoy Chatta Singh left cover to assist his commanding officer, who was lying wounded and helpless in the open. The sepoy bound up the officer's wounds and then dug cover for him with his entrenching tool, being exposed all the time to very heavy rifle fire. For five hours until nightfall he stayed with the wounded officer, shielding him with his body on the exposed side. He then, under cover of darkness, went back for assistance and brought the officer to safety. He later achieved the rank of Havildar.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darwan_Singh_Negi" class="external text" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darwan_Singh_Negi">Darwan Singh Negi</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Darwan"><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b7/Darwan_singh_negi.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 125px; height: 175px;" /></a><a href="image:Darwan" singh="" jpg="" class="internal" title="Darwan Singh Negi"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />Darwan Singh Negi (November 1881- 24 June 1950) was approx. 33 years old, and a Naik in the 1st Battalion, 39th Garhwal Rifles, Indian Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.<br /><br />On the night of 23/24 November 1914 at Festubert, France, the regiment was engaged in retaking and clearing the enemy out of trenches. In this very dangerous operation Naik Darwan Singh Negi was the first to push round every traverse. Although he was wounded in the head and in the arm, he kept on going forward in the face of heavy fire from bombs and rifles at very close range. He later achieved the rank of Subedar.<br /><br />His Victoria Cross is on display in the Garhwal Rifles Museum in Lansdowne, Uttaranchal.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gobar_Singh_Negi" class="external text" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gobar_Singh_Negi">Gobar Singh Negi</a></big></li> <big><br />Gobar Sing Negi (October 1893 - 10 March 1915) was 21 years old, and a Rifleman in the 2 /, 39th Garhwal Rifles, Indian Army during the First World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.<br /><br />On 10 March 1915 at Neuve Chapelle, France, during an attack on the German position Rifleman Gobar Sing Negi was one of a bayonet party with bombs who entered their main trench, and was the first man to go round each traverse, driving back the enemy until they were eventually forced to surrender. He was killed during this engagement.<br /><br /></big><li><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prakash_Singh" title="Prakash Singh">Prakash Singh Dogra</a> </big> <div class="thumb tright"><big> </big> <div style="width: 252px;"><big><a href="image:Prakash"><img alt="" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b8/Prakash_singh.jpg" style="border: 0px solid ; width: 133px; height: 190px;" /></a><a href="image:Prakash" jpg="" class="internal" title="Prakash Singh"><br /></a> </big></div> <big> </big></div> <big> </big></li> <big><br />Prakash Singh Dogra was 25 years old, and a Jemadar in the 4 / 13th Frontier Force Rifles, Indian Army during the Second World War when the following deed took place for which he was awarded the VC.<br /><br />On 16/17 February 1945 at Kanlan Ywathit, Burma (now Myanmar), Jemadar Prakash Singh was commanding a platoon which took the main weight of fierce enemy attacks. He was wounded in both ankles and relieved of his command, but when his second-in-command was also wounded, he crawled back and took command again, directing operations and encouraging his men. Being again wounded in both legs, he continued to direct the defence, dragging himself from place to place by his hands. When wounded a third time and dying, he lay shouting the Dogra war-cry, so inspiring his company that the enemy were finally driven off. </big></div><big> </big><p><big><a name="Saints" id="Saints"></a></big></p><big> </big><h3><big><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saints" title="Saints">Saints</a></big></h3><big> </big></ul> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big> </big></div> <ul><ul><li> <div style="text-align: justify;"><big>Meera bai, a Rathore princess from Merta was a Bhakti Poet and sang devotional songs in praise of Lord Krishna. Some compilations of Meera's bhajans are presented here: </big><br /><big> </big></div> <big> </big> <blockquote><big>बरसै बदिरया सावन क ी, सावन क ी मन भावन क ी।<br />सावन मे उमग्यो मेरो मनवा, भनक सुनी हिर आवन क ी।।<br /><br />उमड घुमड चहुं िदससे आयो, दामण दमके झर लावन क ी।<br />नान्हीं नान्हीं बूंदन मेहा बरसै, सीतल पवन सोहावन क ी।।<br /><br />मीराँ के पृभु िगरधर नागर, आनंद मंगल गावन क ी।।<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"> It is raining in the month of Savan, I like the rain coming down. </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">In Savan, my heart starts to pine, I hear the sound of Hari coming.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The clouds have rolled in from all sides, lightening occurs and it pours.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Tiny Tiny drops come from the clouds, and I enjoy the cool breeze.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">O lord of Mira, Giradhar Nagar, the cloudy season is for singing joyfully.</span><br /><br /><br /><br />हेरी म्हा दरद िदवाणाँ, म्हारा दरद न जाण्याँ कोय ।<br />घायल री गत घायल जाण्याँ, िहबडो अगण सन्जोय ।।<br /><br />जौहर की गत जौहरी जाणै, क्या जाण्याँ जण खोय ।<br />मीराँ री प्रभु पीर िमटाँगा, जब वैद साँवरो होय ।।<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I am in pain, and no one understands it.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Only the wounded knows the pain of the wounded, saving the fire in his heart.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Only the jeweller knows the values of the gem, not the one who lost it.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">O lord, Mira's pain will only go, when the Dark One is the healer.</span><br /></big></blockquote> </li></ul><p style="text-align: justify;"><big><a name="References" id="References"></a><br /></big></p><big> </big><h2><big>References</big></h2><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><big> </big><table class="" style="background-color: transparent; width: 100%;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td align="left" valign="top" width="50%"><big><br /></big> <div style="font-size: 100%;"><big> </big> <ul><big> </big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBeck2004">Beck, Dr. Sanderson (2004), <i>India & Southeast Asia to 1875.</i>, World Peace Communications, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0976221004" class="internal">ISBN 0976221004</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhati2002">Bhati, Hari Simha (2002), <i>Annals of Jaisalmer: a pre-medieval history.</i>, Kavi Prakashan, ASIN B0000CPJC0</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhati2003">Bhati, Dr. Hukam Singh (2003), <i>Bhati vamsa ka gauravamaya itihasa Vol I-II.</i>, Ithihass Anusandhan Sansthan, Chaupasani, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhati1991">Bhati, Dr. Narayan Singh (1991), <i>Maharajah Mansingh: the mystic monarch of Marwar.</i>, Maharajah Man Singh Pustak Prakash, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhati1990">Bhati, Dr. Hukam Singh (1990), <i>Maheca Rathaurom ka mula itihasa: Ravala Mallinatha ke vamsaja - Maheca, Baramera, Pokarana, Kotariya aura Khavariya Rathaurom ka sodhapurna itihasa.</i>, Ratan Prakashan, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhati1993">Bhati, Dr. Hukam Singh (Editor) (1993), <i>Mevara jagiradaram ri vigata : Maharana Amarasimha Dvi. evam Maharana Bhimasimha.</i>, Pratap Shodh Pratishtan, Udaipur 313 001</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhati2001">Bhati, Dr. Hukam Singh (Editor) (2001), <i>Svatantrya vira Rava Chandrasena: Jodhapura ka sasaka 1562-1581.</i>, Rajasthani Shodh Sansthan, Chaupasani, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhati2002">Bhati, Dr. Hukam Singh (Editor) (2002), <i>Vira siromani Rava Amarasimha Rathaura : Nagaura ka sasaka, 1638-1644.</i>, Rajasthani Shodh Sansthan, Chaupasani, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFBhatnagar">Bhatnagar, Professor V.S. (), <i>Essays on Bardic literature</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFChauhan2003">Chauhan, Dr. Bindhayaraj (2003), <i>Bharata ka Liyonidasa, Sonigira Virama de Chauhana, Jalaura: Lionidas of India Sonigira Viram de Chauhan.</i>, Arjun Singh Songara publication, Sanchore, Jalore, Rajasthan</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFChauhanISBN_81-7043-429-7">Chauhan, Dr. Lal Bhadur Singh (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8170434297" class="internal">ISBN 81-7043-429-7</a>), <i>Rashtra-gaurava suravira Maharana Pratapa.</i>, Atma Ram and Sons, New Delhi 110006, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8170434297" class="internal">ISBN 81-7043-429-7</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFChoudhury2nd_Ed._1977">Choudhury, Bani Roy (2nd Ed. 1977), <i>Folk tales of Rajasthan.</i>, Sterling Publishers, ASIN B0007ANEHY</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFDua2004">Dua, Shyam (2004), <i>The luminous life of Maharana Pratap.</i>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8175738324" class="internal">ISBN 8175738324</a></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFFramjee">Framjee, Dosabhoy, (1858) <i>The Parsees, Their History, Manners, Customs And Religion</i></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFGehlote2000">Gehlote, Sukhvir Singh (2000), <i>Svatamtrata-premi Durgadasa Rathaura.</i>, Navbharat Publications, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jodhpur" title="Jodhpur">Jodhpur</a> 342 001, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajasthan" title="Rajasthan">Rajasthan</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFHarlan1992">Harlan, Lindsey (1992), <i>Religion and Rajput Women: The Ethic of Protection in Contemporary Narratives.</i>, University of California Press, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0520073398" class="internal">ISBN 0520073398</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFHeinemann1990">Heinemann, S O (1990), <i>Poems of Mewar.</i>, Vintage Books, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8185326401" class="internal">ISBN 81-85326-40-1</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFHooja2006">Hooja, Rima (2006), <i>History of Rajasthan</i>, New Delhi: Rupa & Co, 2006, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=81-291-0890-9" class="internal">ISBN 81-291-0890-9</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFHunter1886">Hunter, W.W. (1886), <i>The Indian Empire, Its People, History and Products.</i>, London: Trubner & Co, Ludgate Hill, 1886, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8120615816" class="internal">ISBN 81-206-1581-6</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFJoshi2004">Joshi, Dr. Sanjay (2004), <i>Unveiling Ajitsingh's Sanskrit biography : issues in Marwar history and Sanskrit poetics.</i>, Books Treasure, Jodhpur, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8190042211" class="internal">ISBN 81-900422-1-1</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFKadam1993">Kadam, Vasant S (1993), <i>Maratha confederacy : a study in its origin and development.</i>, Munshiram Manoharlal Publishers Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8121505702" class="internal">ISBN 81-215-0570-2</a></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFAnsar">Khan, Ansar Hussain, <i>The Rediscovery of India - A New Subcontinent.</i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8125015957"> ISBN 8125015957</a></cite><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8125015957">.</a></big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFKulke">Kulke, Hermann, <i>A History of India. </i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0415154820">ISBN: 0415154820</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFMajumdarRaychaudhuriDatta">Majumdar, R.C., Raychaudhuri, H.C., Datta, Kaukinkar, <i>Advanced History of India</i>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0333%2090298%20X" class="internal">ISBN 0333 90298 X</a></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFMathur2004">Mathur, Professor G.L. (2004), <i>Folklore of Rajasthan.</i>, Publisher Rajasthani Granthagar, Sojati Gate, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFMathur2004">Mathur, Dr. L.P (2004), <i>War strategy of Maharana Pratap, its evolution and implementation.</i>, Publication Scheme, Ganga Mandir, Jaipur-1, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8181820169" class="internal">ISBN 81-8182-016-9</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFMishra1914">Mishra, Jwalaprasad (1914), <i>Jati Bhaskara.</i>, Khemaraj Shrikrishnadas</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFNagar2004">Nagar, Dr. (Kr.) Mahendra Singh (2004), <i>The genealogical survey : Royal house of Marwar and other states.</i>, Maharajah Man Singh Pustak Prakash, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFNirala1998">Nirala, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suryakant_Tripathi_Nirala" title="Suryakant Tripathi Nirala">Suryakant Tripathi</a> (1998), <i>Maharana Pratapa</i>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8126708360" class="internal">ISBN 81-267-0836-0</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFOjhaFirst_edition_1936.2C_Second_revised_edition_1999">Ojha, Dr. Gauri Shankar Hira Chand (First edition 1936, Second revised edition 1999), <i>Sirohi rajya ka itihasa.</i>, Rajasthani Granthagar, Sojati gate, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFPrakash2005">Prakash, Ved (2005), <i>Vira Durgadasa Rathaurha.</i>, Rajbhasha Pustak Pratishthan, Shivaji Marg, Delhi 110053, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=818861310X" class="internal">ISBN 81-88613-10-X</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFPremchand1998">Premchand, Munshi (1998), <i>Maharana Pratap.</i>, Sahityasagar, Jaipur 302003</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFPrice1829">Price, David (1829), <i>Memoirs of the Emperor Jahangueir written by himself</i>, Oriental Translation Committee, London 1829: republished Calcutta 1904</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFRanade1962">Ranade, M G (1962), <i>Rise of the Maratha power.</i>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=1135403368" class="internal">ISBN 1135403368</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big></ul> <big><br /></big></div> <big> </big></td> <td align="left" valign="top" width="50%"><big><br /></big> <div style="font-size: 100%;"><big> </big> <ul><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFRathore1991">Rathore, Professor L.S (1991), <i>Maharana Hammir of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mewar" title="Mewar">Mewar</a>: Chittor's lost freedom restored.</i>, The Thar Bliss Publishing House, Jodhpur 342 001</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFRathore1990">Rathore, Dr. L.S Rathore (1990), <i>The glory of Ranthambhor.</i>, Jodhpur university press, Jodhpur (India)</cite>.</big></li><br /><big> </big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFRathore1988">Rathore, Dr. L.S (1988), <i>The johur of Padmini : the saga of Chittor's deathless heroine.</i>, Thar Bliss Publishing House, Jaipur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFReu2005">Reu, Pt. Vishveshwar Nath (2005), <i>Maravara ka itihasa Vol I-II.</i>, Rajasthani Granthagar, Sojati Gate, Jodhpur, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8186103465" class="internal">ISBN 81-86103-46-5</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><big> </big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFRisley">Risley, H.H, (1991) <i>People of India.</i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8121505429"> ISBN: 8121505429</a></cite><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8121505429">.</a></big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSarada2000">Sarada, Har Bilasa (2000), <i>Hindupati Maharana Sanga: sacitra.</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSaradaFirst_Ed_1917._Reprint_2003.">Sarada, Har Bilas (First Ed 1917. Reprint 2003.), <i>Maharana Kumbha: sovereign, soldier, scholar.</i>, Rupa Co. Ansari Road Daryaganj, New Delhi 110 002, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8129100339" class="internal">ISBN 81-29100-33-9</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSaran">Saran, Richard (), <i>The Mertiyo Rathors of Merto, Rajasthan (2 vols.).</i>, Series#:51; Michigan Papers on South and Southeast Asia : University of Michigan Press, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=0891480854" class="internal">ISBN 0891480854</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSaraswat1984">Saraswat, Rawat (1984), <i>Prithviraja Rathaura.</i>, Sahitya Akademi, Ferozeshah Road, New Delhi, 110001</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSharmaFirst_ed_1975.2C_Reprint_2002">Sharma, Professor Dashratha (First ed 1975, Reprint 2002), <i>Early Chauhan dynasties: a study of Chauhan political history, Chauhan political institution, and life in the Chauhan dominions, from 800 to 1316 A.D.</i>, Books Treasure, Sojati Gate, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSharmaMathur2001">Sharma, G.N. & Mathur, M.N. (2001), <i>Maharana Pratap & his times.</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSharma2002">Sharma, Dr. Sri Ram (2002), <i>Maharana Pratap : a biography.</i>, Hope India Publications., <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=817871003X" class="internal">ISBN 817871003X</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSharma2000">Sharma, Dr. Vasumati (2000), <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathaura</a> rajavamsa ke riti-rivaja: 1600-1850.</i>, Maharajah Man Singh Pustak Prakash, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSharma_.27Chandra.272000">Sharma 'Chandra', Yadavendra (2000), <i>Amara Simha Rathaura.</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSimha">Simha, Thakur Udainarain (), <i>Kshatriya Vamshavali.</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSingh2002">Singh, Kesri (2002), <i>Maharana Pratap, the hero of Haldighati.</i>, Books Treasure, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSingh1994">Singh, Dhananajaya (1994), <i>The house of Marwar.</i>, Lotus Collection, Roli Books, New Delhi, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8174360026" class="internal">ISBN 8174360026</a></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFPatwant">Singh, Patwant, (2002) <i>The Sikhs. </i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8171676243">ISBN: 8171676243</a></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSingh_.28IAS.291999">Singh (IAS), Pushpendra Singh (Editor) (1999), <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathore" title="Rathore">Rathaudam</a> ri khyata.</i>, Rajasthan Oriental Research Institute, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSinh1999">Sinh, Raghubir (1999), <i>Durgadas Rathor : [national biography].</i>, Lotus Collection, Roli Books, New Delhi, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8170560519" class="internal">ISBN 81-7056-051-9</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSinh1989">Sinh, Raghubir (1989), <i>Studies on Maratha & Rajput history.</i>, Research Publishers, Merti Gate, Jodhpur 342 002, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8185310009" class="internal">ISBN 81-85310-00-9</a></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSmith">Smith, V.A. (2003), <i>The Oxford History of India. </i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=80195612973">ISBN 80-19-561297-3</a></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSolanki1999">Solanki, Dr. Ram Singh (1999), <i>Rashtravira Durgadasa Rathaura.</i>, Rajasthani Shodh Sansthan, Chaupasani, Jodhpur</cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li style="text-align: left;"><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSomani1999">Somani, Ram Vallabh (1999), <i>Maharana Kumbha and his times: a glorious Hindu king.</i>, Jaipur Publishing House, S.M.S Highway , Jaipur-3.</cite></big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFSomani">Somani, Ram Vallabha (), <i>Maharana Pratapa : aitihasika adhyayana.</i>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=818523454X" class="internal">ISBN 818523454X</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFThakur1974">Thakur, Upendra (1974), <i>Some aspects of Ancient India History and culture.</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFTiwari2005">Tiwari, Vinod (2005), <i>Maharana Pratapa.</i>, Manoj Publications, Delhi 110084, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8181335910" class="internal">ISBN 81-8133-591-0</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFTodCrooke1994">Tod, James & Crooke, William (Editor) (1994), <i>Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan (2 vols.).</i>, Trans-Atl, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8170691281" class="internal">ISBN 8170691281</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFTod1996">Tod, James (1996), <i>Rajput tales: adapted and abridged from Tod's Annals and antiquities of Rajasthan.</i>, Cosmo Publications, Delhi, India, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=8170207533" class="internal">ISBN 81-7020-753-3</a></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFWarder1972">Warder, A K (1972), <i>An Introduction to Indian Historiography.</i></cite>.</big></li><br /><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;" id="CITEREFWolpert">Wolpert, Stanley, (2003) <i>A New History of India. </i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=01951166787">ISBN: 0195166787</a></cite><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Booksources&isbn=01951166787">.</a></big></li><br /><li><big> <cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Gogunda ki khyata</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Jalore: a history of greatest patriotic saga of Chauhan clan</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Maharana Pratapa: eka aise vira yoddha ki jivana-gatha jisane svatantrata ke lie apani akhiri samsa taka visala Mugala samrajya se janga ki</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Maravara ke thikanom ki puralekhiya sampada</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Marwar-Jodhpur</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Panna dhaya : prabandha kavya</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Pranapala Durgadasa Rathaura</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Relations between Marwar and the Marathas, A.D. 1724-1843 A.D.</i></cite>.</big></li><big><br /></big><li><big><cite style="font-style: normal;"> <i>Survey of Kheechi Chauhan history, with biographical notes</i></cite>.</big></li></ul> <big> </big></div> <big><br /></big></td> </tr> </tbody> </table><big><br /></big></ul> <dl><ul><p><a name="External_links" id="External_links"></a></p><h3>External links<br /></h3><ul><li><a href="http://www.mewarindia.com/ency/raja.html" class="external text" title="http://www.mewarindia.com/ency/raja.html">The Mewar Encyclopedia</a></li><br /><li><a href="http://www.4dw.net/royalark/India/kotah.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.4dw.net/royalark/India/kotah.htm">Kota Chauhan Clan</a></li><br /><li><a href="http://www.maharajajodhpur.com/hh/hh_main.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.maharajajodhpur.com/hh/hh_main.htm">Jodhpur Rathore Clan</a></li><br /><li><a href="http://www.uq.net.au/%7Ezzhsoszy/ips/r/rewah.html" class="external text" title="http://www.uq.net.au/~zzhsoszy/ips/r/rewah.html">Rewa Baghel Clan</a></li><br /><li><a href="http://www.smithsonianmagazine.com/issues/2004/june/raja.php?page=2" class="external text" title="http://www.smithsonianmagazine.com/issues/2004/june/raja.php?page=2">Marwari Horse</a></li><br /></ul><br /></ul></dl> </div> </div><br 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