History of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the land of Raja-Maharajs has witnessed a glorious history, which dates back to the ancient times. There is an interesting legend attached to the history of Rajasthan. It is believed that ages ago when Lord Rama (heroic figure in Hindu Mythology) was about to fire an arrow towards Lanka where his consort Goddess Sita was imprisoned by the demon king Ravana, other Gods requested him to refrain from doing so. However, once the arrow was drawn it could not be taken back, so Lord Rama released the arrow at a distant sea. As a result, all the water evaporated from the sea and from it rose the great Indian Thar Desert, Rajasthan.

According to archaeological reports, the settlements in Rajasthan began during the Indus Valley Civilization(2500 BC). It is believed that the civilization declined due to several factors such as earthquake and invasions. Later the trade link between Europe and Asia came as a blessing to Rajasthan as it is during this period that the settlements were re-established.

The Aryans occupied the Dundhmer region of Rajasthan and settled there in 2000 BC. Mina and Bhil tribes were the first inhabitants of Rajasthan. Constant fights between these two tribe resulted in several small kingdoms.

Next came the Maurya dynasty, which ruled over Rajasthan till 400 AD. The great king Ashoka was one of the kings of the Maurya dynasty who, after seeing the horrible results of the war took to Buddhism to understand life better. Thereafter the Guptas established their supremacy in the 4th century and ruled for 300 years.

Famous for their bravery, the Rajputs ruled Rajasthan from the 7th century AD. But infighting amongst themselves eventually split them into 36 splinters, and ever since, Rajasthan has been referred to as the “Land of Rajputs”.

1200 AD saw the rise of the Muslim rulers who were later defeated by Marathas  in 1707. Finally, British rule was established in 1817, and came to an end in 1947 when India gained Independence.