|
Rajasthan, the north-western region of India, is very rich in history. The rich history of Rajasthan can be traced back to 5000 years. And it is the influence of the past era that Rajasthan has emerged as one of the most interesting heritage sites in India. Its picturesque landscapes, rugged forts and lofty monuments; each sings the song of its glory. The tranquility and the serenity of the state still have that old charm. Camel safaris and trekking transport us back to that time where kings and other people used this mode of transportation to commute from one place to another.
Looking back into the rich history of Rajasthan it can be said that many empires tried to make their marks on this beautiful land of India. But all their efforts went vain. Like Buddhism failed to make substantial inroad here. The famous Mauryan emperor Ashoka who converted himself to Buddhism could not leave his impact on this land. Nevertheless, Buddhist caves and stupas (Buddhist Shrines) at Jhalawar, in Southern Rajasthan, can be regarded as the sign of the influence of Buddhism and their practices.
Historical data reveals that Rajasthan or the land of the Rajputs grew into popularity in 6th century CE. It was this time that Rajput families rose to prominence and established their kingdoms. They stood against the penetrations of Muslim into India. However, with passing time they themselves became subservient to the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire during those empires' expansion.
It was Mewar which organized battle against Muslim rule. Rana Sanga fought Battle of Khanua against Babur and Maharana Pratap against Akbar in Haldighati. On the contrary there were some rulers who thought it wise to submit themselves before Muslim rulers and hence became their trusted allies e.g. Raja Maan Singh of Amer.
However, the gradual decline of the Mughal Empire led to the reassertion of Rajputs’ independence. Moreover, it was in 18th century that Rajputana again had to face attack from the Marathas and Pindaris. The Maratha general Scindhia captured Ajmer.
In the early 19th century, the Rajput kings signed treaties with the British and accepted British sovereignty in return for independence and protection from the Marathas. Gradually, Ajmer became a province of British India. And the autonomous Rajput states and a few non-Rajput states like Tonk, Bharatpur, and Dholpur were taken together to form the Rajputana Agency.
It is the due effect of the historical past that today in Rajasthan we can see the prominent features of Muslim and Jain architecture in the numerous forts and palaces.
TouristPlacesRajasthan.com
offers interesting information Rajasthan Tourism
. To know every bit about this Rajput state in India and its colorful aspects keep browsing through links and find details on the rich History of Rajasthan.
|
