Rajput Era

The Rajput period is an important era of Indian history , which is seen as a link between ancient and medieval India. This period extended from approximately 7th to 12th century. During this period, Rajputs ruled over a large part of the Indian subcontinent and left a deep mark in history with their social , cultural , and military influences. Let us understand it in detail:

1. Emergence of the Rajput Era

The word Rajput means “Rajputra” , which means the son of a king. Rajputs emerged around the 7th century. Their origin history is controversial , but it is mainly linked to four sources:

1. Suryavanshi : Descendants of Lord Rama.
2. Chandravanshi : Born from the Moon.
3. Agnivanshi : Born from the fire pit (According to mythology , Rajputs were created from fire).
4. Kshatriya descendants : Some Rajput clans are believed to have originated from Kshatriya lineage.

2. Major Rajput clans

Several important Rajput dynasties emerged during the Rajput period , which brought regional stability and cultural prosperity through their administrative and military powers. Major Rajput dynasties include:

1. Pratihara Dynasty ( Gurjara-Pratihara): This dynasty established power in northern India and stopped the Arab invaders.
2. Chauhan Dynasty : This dynasty ruled Ajmer and Delhi. Prithviraj Chauhan was the most famous king of this dynasty.
3. Chalukya/Solanki Dynasty : This dynasty ruled in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
4. Parmar dynasty : Major dynasty that ruled in Malwa region.
5. Rathore dynasty : Ruled in Marwar (Jodhpur).
6. Sisodia dynasty : Rulers of Mewar , of whom Maharana Pratap was the most famous.

3. Social and cultural characteristics

( a) Society

• Kshatriya Dharma : Kshatriya Dharma was followed in Rajput society. War and bravery were considered the highest values.
• Status of Women : Women were respected , but practices like purdah system and jauhar were also prevalent.
• Caste System : Varna system was important in the society.

( b) Culture

• Art and Architecture : Rajputs built magnificent forts , palaces and temples. Forts like Chittaurgarh , Kumbhalgarh , and Amer are examples of the architecture of this era.
• Literature : Sanskrit and Prakrit literature developed during this period. Poetry works like Prithviraj Raso are famous.
• Religion : Rajputs were followers of Hinduism , but Jainism and Buddhism also received patronage.

4. Military power

The military strength of the Rajputs was their identity. These warriors were known for bravery , courage and strategy. Their main characteristics were:

• Cavalry and swordsmanship.
• A strong system of forts.
• To fight for freedom and self-respect.

5. Major conflicts of the Rajput period

( a) Arab invasion

• The Pratihara dynasty played an important role in stopping the Arab invaders in western India.

( b) Turk invasion

• The 12th century saw the Turkic invasions under the leadership of Muhammad Ghori. The Battle of Tarain ( 1191-92) between Prithviraj Chauhan and Ghori was a major conflict of this period.

6. Reasons for the fall

The decline of the Rajput period happened due to several reasons:

1. Internal conflict : Continuous warfare among the Rajput clans weakened their unity.
2. Invading Forces : The invasions of the Turks , Khiljis and the Mughal rulers ended the power of the Rajputs.
3. Outdated war strategies : The Rajputs stuck to their traditional war strategies , while the invaders were more organised and technologically advanced.

7. Heritage of the Rajput period

• Rajput architecture , such as forts and palaces , are still part of Indian culture.
• The stories of his bravery are immortalised in Indian folklore and history.
• He played a big role in protecting Indian civilization from foreign invasions.

The Rajput period is a glorious chapter in Indian history. It not only enriched Indian culture and society , but also left a tradition which is still a part of India’s identity.

Emergence of Rajput Era

The emergence of the Rajput period is an important phase of Indian history , which took place approximately between the 7th and 12th centuries. This period came after the Gupta era of ancient India and is considered the beginning of medieval India. There are many historical and mythological stories about the emergence of Rajputs. Let us understand it in detail:

Rise of Rajputs: Historical Perspective

1. The period after the fall of the Gupta Empire
   • the fall of the Gupta Empire ( 6th century), small regional states emerged in India.
   • The struggle for power increased in these states , and amid this struggle the Rajputs emerged.
   • Rajput rulers were successful in bringing regional stability and organised local tribes to form powerful kingdoms.
2. lineage
   • Rajputs are divided into four main clans based on their lineage:
     • Suryavanshi : Descendants of Lord Rama.
     • Chandravanshi : Associated with Lord Krishna and Yaduvanshi kings.
     • Agnivanshi : It is believed that some Rajput clans originated from Agnikund (born from fire).
     • Nagavanshi : A lineage associated with the Naga tribes and the worship of snakes.
3. Connection with Kshatriya tradition
   • Rajputs are considered to be the successors of the ancient Kshatriya clan.
   • Many Rajput clans are also believed to be descendants of the Guptas , Huns and other foreign rulers who became assimilated into Indian culture .
4. Mythology: Origin of the Fire Pit
   • According to mythological belief , Rajputs originated from a yagya called “Agnikund” in Mount Abu.
   • Sage Vasishtha created four Rajput clans from the fire pit to protect India:
     • Chauhan
     • Parmar
     • pratihar
     • Solanki

Social and Political Organization of the Rajputs

1. Kshatriya religion and Rajput religion
   • The Rajputs associated themselves with the Kshatriya varna.
   • They considered bravery , courage and warfare skills as part of their religion.
2. Organization of local tribes
   • Rajput rulers gained power by organising local tribes and communities.
   • They built forts in the hilly regions , the Thar desert areas and the plains of central India.
3. Centralization of political power
   • Small states were formed.
   • The rulers of these states strengthened the forts , military , and administrative structures.

Reasons for the emergence of Rajputs

1. Fall of the Gupta Empire
   • After the fall of the Gupta Empire there was a political vacuum in India.
   • To fill this vacuum, many regional powers emerged , among which the Rajputs were prominent.
2. Hun and Saka invasions
   • The influence of foreign invaders like Huns and Shakas gradually ended.
   • His remaining descendants assimilated into Indian society and adopted Rajput names.
3. Development of local autonomy
   • After the fall of the Gupta period, many small kings became independent.
   • These kings established their identity as a Rajput power.
4. Influence of religion and culture
   • The Rajputs adopted and preserved Hindu religion and culture.
   • Temple construction , religious sacrifices , and social systems helped increase their political influence.

Geographical background of the emergence of Rajputs

• Rajput states emerged mainly in the regions of Rajasthan , Gujarat , Madhya Pradesh , Uttar Pradesh , and Haryana.
• Rajasthan is considered the centre of Rajput power , from where they expanded their rule to other parts of India.

Importance of Rajputs

• The emergence of Rajputs was not merely a political event but it was a phase that brought stability and prosperity to Indian society and culture.
• made significant contributions to Indian civilization through their valour , culture , and art.

The emergence of Rajputs is such a chapter of Indian history which gave a new direction to medieval India and kept the spirit of bravery and self-respect alive in the Indian society.

Major Rajput Clans

During the Rajput period, several major dynasties emerged , which established their power and influence in different regions of India. These dynasties were not only symbols of political power , but also made significant contributions in the field of art , culture , and architecture. Following are the major Rajput dynasties:

1. Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty ( 6th – 11th century)

• Center : Kannauj
• Important rulers : Nagabhatta I , Nagabhatta II , Mihir Bhoj
• Heritage :
  • Played an important role in stopping Arab invasions.
  • Kannauj Triangular Struggle ( between Gurjara-Pratiharas , Rashtrakutas and Pala Empire).
  • Patronage of Sanskrit literature and architecture.
  • Mihir Bhoj is remembered for his military and cultural achievements.

2. Chauhan dynasty ( 7th – 12th century)

• Center : Ajmer and Delhi
• Important Ruler : Prithviraj Chauhan
• Heritage :
  • Made Ajmer the centre of power.
  • Prithviraj Chauhan defeated Muhammad Ghori in the First Battle of Tarain in 1191 , but was defeated in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 .
  • Literary contributions , such as Prithviraj Raso (by Chandra Bardai).

3. Parmar dynasty ( 9th – 14th century)

• Center : Malwa (Dhar , Madhya Pradesh)
• Important Ruler : Raja Bhoj
• Heritage :
  • Raja Bhoj made great contributions in the field of education , literature and art.
  • Established educational centres like Bhojshala and Saraswati Mandir.
  • Pioneer in architecture and water management in the Malwa region.

4. Solanki dynasty (Chaluky dynasty) ( 10th – 13th century)

• Center : Gujarat
• Important Rulers : Bhimdev I , Siddharaj Jaisingh
• Heritage :
  • Contribution in the reconstruction of Somnath Temple.
  • Grand architectural structures like Rani ki Vav (Patan).
  • Development of trade and culture in Gujarat.

5. Sisodia dynasty ( 8th century onwards)

• Center : Mewar (Chittor and Udaipur , Rajasthan)
• Important Rulers : Rana Kumbha , Maharana Pratap
• Heritage :
  • Rana Kumbha built the Kumbhalgarh Fort.
  • displayed bravery in the Battle of Haldighati ( 1576) against Akbar .
  • Symbol of independence and self-respect of Mewar.

6. Rathore dynasty ( 13th century onwards)

• Center : Marwar (Jodhpur , Rajasthan)
• Important Ruler : Rao Jodha
• Heritage :
  • Establishment of Jodhpur city.
  • Development of art and culture in Marwar region.

7. Gehlot dynasty

• Centre : Mewar (earlier name of Sisodia dynasty)
• Heritage :
  • The Gehlot dynasty strengthened the Rajput tradition.
  • Evolved as Sisodia dynasty.

8. Kachwaha dynasty ( 11th century onwards)

• Center : Amer and Jaipur (Rajasthan)
• Important Ruler : Raja Mansingh I
• Heritage :
  • Political relations with the Mughals.
  • Construction of Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort.

9. Tomar dynasty ( 9th – 12th century)

• Center : Gwalior and Delhi
• Important Ruler : Anangpal Tomar
• Heritage :
  • Establishment of Delhi and construction of Lal Kot Fort.
  • Conservation of architecture and art in the Gwalior region.

10. Bhati dynasty

• Center : Jaisalmer
• Important Ruler : Rawal Jaisal
• Heritage :
  • Establishment of Jaisalmer Fort.
  • Control of trade routes in the desert area.

General characteristics of Rajput clans

1. Strategic Strength : All the dynasties protected their borders through their forts and military strategies.
2. Culture and arts : Patronized architecture , music , and literature.
3. Self-Respect and Independence : Rajput clans constantly fought to protect their independence and self-respect.
4. Religious patron : built temples and promoted Hinduism.

Rajput clans are a glorious part of Indian history. Their valour , art , and cultural contributions have enriched the historical and cultural landscape of India.

Social and Cultural Characteristics

The social and cultural characteristics of the Rajput period are very important to understand the uniqueness and influence of that era. This period was not only a period of political turmoil , but it is also considered a golden age in the development of society and culture.

Social characteristics

1. Varna system

• The caste system was dominant in Rajput society. This society was mainly divided into four castes (Brahmin , Kshatriya , Vaishya , and Shudra).
• The Rajputs themselves Kshatriya religion Considered to be the follower of the ‘Sarkar’ , who performed the duties of war and governance.
• The caste system was rigid and social mobility was limited.

2. Status of women

• Women had a respected position in the society.
• Jauhar and Sati Pratha : These practices, which presented the ideal of bravery and sacrifice of women, had a special place in the society at that time.
• The system of purdah was prevalent , and the role of women was mainly limited to domestic and family responsibilities.
• Rajput queens and other noble women also took active part in political and military affairs , such as Padmini and Karmavati.

3. Marriage customs

• Marriage had great importance in Rajput society.
• Polygamy It was prevalent among the upper class , while the general class followed the practice of monogamy.
• Marriage relations were usually to cement political and military alliances.

4. Caste and sub-castes

• There were various sub-castes within the Rajputs , like Chauhan , Sisodiya , Rathore , Parmar etc.
• Each sub-caste maintained its own distinct identity and traditions.

5. Society of Valour and Bravery

• In Rajput society, bravery and war skills were considered supreme.
• Training in warfare and horse riding was compulsory in society.
• Poetry and songs were popular as symbols of bravery.

Cultural characteristics

1. Religion and religious tolerance

• The Rajputs were staunch followers of Hinduism.
• He promoted Vaishnav and Shaiva sects.
• Jainism also received patronage from the Rajput rulers.
• Rajputs made a big contribution in the construction of the temple.

2. Art and Architecture

• The Rajputs built magnificent forts , palaces , and temples.
  • Chittaurgarh , Kumbhalgarh , Amer Fort Like forts.
  • Architecture like Dilwara Jain Temple , Rani ki Vav.
• , murals , and intricate designs predominated in architecture .
• A unique coordination of security and beauty can be seen in the architecture.

3. Literature and language

• Literary development took place during the Rajput period.
• Prithviraj Raso ( by Chandra Bardai) is an epic of Rajput bravery.
• Literature was composed in Sanskrit and Prakrit as well as local languages , such as Rajasthani and Braj .
• Bhakti literature developed , in which devotee poets made major contributions.

4. Music and dance

• Music and dance were an integral part of Rajput culture.
• Music and dance were organised in royal courts.
• Rajasthani folk music and dance ( like Ger , Ghoomar) developed.

5. Festivals and Celebrations

• Festivals and celebrations had special significance in Rajput society.
• Dussehra , Holi , and Diwali were celebrated with great pomp.
• Festivals related to valour and heroism were also prevalent.

6. Outfits and Jewellery

• Rajput dress was grand and beautiful. Men wore angarkha , turban and waistband.
• wore Ghaghra , Odhani and traditional jewellery.
• The art of Kundan and Meenakari was famous in Rajput jewellery.

Characteristics of Rajput society and culture

1. Bravery and Self-Respect : War and bravery were the highest values in Rajput society.
2. Religiosity and Traditions : Religion and traditions were strictly followed.
3. Patronage of art and culture : Architecture , literature , and folk art were patronised.
4. Social Organization : Society was based on caste , sub-caste and family.

The social and cultural characteristics of the Rajput period were reflected in every aspect of their life. These characteristics provided stability and prosperity to Indian history and culture.

Rajput Era Military Power

Rajput Era Military power was a major aspect of their identity in the 10th century. The Rajputs adopted the principles of warfare , valour and sacrifice and made their military force highly organised and effective. Their military structure , strategies and weapons were the main reason for their success in the wars of that time.

Characteristics of the military power of the Rajputs

1. Military organization

• The Rajput army was divided into three major sections:
  • Padati (Infantry) : This was the largest section of the army.
  • Cavalry : The most effective force of the Rajputs. Warriors on horses brought speed and mobility to the battle.
  • Gaja Sena (Elephant Army) : It was a symbol of fear and power in the war.
  • Chariot Army : Though its importance had declined in the Rajput period , it was still used at some places.

2. Forts and fortifications

• The Rajputs built strong and strategic forts in India.
• Important forts : Chittaurgarh , Kumbhalgarh , Amer , Jalore , and Jaisalmer.
• Forts were built on hills , deserts and river banks so that they would be naturally protected.
• The forts were not just military bases but they were symbols of the power , culture and empire of the Rajputs.

3. War skills and strategies

• Open Battle : Rajput warriors were unique in direct battle. They used to show bravery in face-to-face battles.
• Siege Warfare : The strategy was to surround the enemy’s forts and cut off their supplies.
• Guerrilla Warfare : Though less commonly adopted by the Rajputs , some clans used this tactic in inaccessible areas.
• In the war horses and elephants was used skillfully.

4. Weapons and armor

• The Rajputs had advanced weapons and armour according to modern times.
• Weapon :
  • Swords: Rajput swords were their identity.
  • Spears and maces.
  • Bow and Arrow: Specially designed for war.
  • Sword , dagger , and shield.
• Armour : Armour made of iron and leather provided protection to Rajput warriors in war.

5. Morality in war

• Rajputs followed moral values in war.
• They considered war as a “religion” and gave utmost importance to bravery.
• in a state of defeat Jauhar ( self-immolation by women) and Practices like Shaka ( last battle by men) were followed.

6. Horse riding and horses

• Horse riding was the main skill of the Rajputs.
• They had horses of special breeds , such as Marwari horses , famous for their strength and speed.
• Horses were their main means of strategic mobility in war.

7. Strategic alliance

• The Rajput empire was often divided into small states , but they would unite during external invasions.
• Matrimonial relations and military alliances with the Mughals and other rulers were also part of their strategy.

Significant battles and displays of military might

• Battle of Tarain ( 1191 and 1192) : Prithviraj Chauhan along with his army defeated Muhammad Ghori in the first battle , but was defeated in the second battle.
• Battle of Haldighati ( 1576) : Maharana Pratap fought the Mughal army to protect Mewar.
• Battle of Khanwa ( 1527) : Rana Sanga demonstrated his military strength against Babur.

Decline of military power

• Internal strife : Internal conflicts among the Rajput states weakened their collective military strength.
• Arrival of the Mughals and Turks : The use of new technologies and cannons weakened the Rajput army.
• Lack of modern military technology : The Rajput army relied on traditional weapons and techniques , while the outside rulers used gunpowder and cannons.

Importance of Rajput military power

• The military might of the Rajputs is a symbol of bravery and sacrifice in Indian history.
• His strategies and warfare skills enrich the Indian military tradition.
• The fortifications and warrior culture of the Rajputs make an invaluable contribution to the cultural and architectural heritage of India.

Rajput military might inspired a spirit of valour , courage , and self-respect in Indian society and echoed for ages to come.

Major Conflicts of Rajput Period

Many important conflicts took place during the Rajput period , which are a symbol of their valor , self-respect and defense of independence. These conflicts not only shaped Indian history , but also highlighted the unique military and political skills of the Rajputs. The major conflicts can be understood as follows:

1. Struggle against Arab invasion ( 8th century)

• Major Rajput Ruler : Nagabhatta I (Gurjar-Pratihara dynasty).
• Description :
  • The Arabs tried to advance into India after capturing Sindh.
  • Nagabhatta I successfully stopped the invasion of Arabs.
  • This conflict was important in securing the western parts of India.

2. Triangular Struggle of Kannauj ( 8th – 10th Century)

• Related dynasties : Gurjara-Pratiharas , Palas , and Rashtrakutas.
• Description :
  • There was a long struggle between the three dynasties for control over Kannauj.
  • An attempt was made to make Kannauj their political and cultural capital.
  • Ultimately the Gurjar-Pratihara dynasty succeeded in establishing control over Kannauj.

3. Invasion of Mahmud of Ghazni ( 11th century)

• Major Rajput rulers : Kings of Gwalior and Kalinjar.
• Description :
  • Mahmud Ghazni attacked the Somnath temple and other sites.
  • Rajput rulers offered resistance at the local level , but the Turks under the leadership of Mahmud Ghazni achieved great success.

4. Battles of Tarain ( 1191 and 1192)

• Related Rajput Dynasty : Chauhan Dynasty.
• Major Ruler : Prithviraj Chauhan.
• Description :
  • First Battle of Tarain ( 1191): Prithviraj Chauhan defeated Muhammad Ghori.
  • Second Battle of Tarain ( 1192): Muhammad Ghori again attacked and defeated Prithviraj Chauhan.
  • After this war the foundation of Muslim rule was laid over Delhi.

5. Conflict between Rana Sanga and Babur (Battle of Khanwa , 1527)

• Related dynasty : Sisodia dynasty.
• Major ruler : Rana Sanga.
• Description :
  • Rana Sanga formed a large coalition against Babur.
  • The Battle of Khanwa was fought between Babur and the Rajputs.
  • Rana Sanga was defeated due to Babur’s cannons and new war techniques.

6. Battle of Haldighati ( 1576)

• Related dynasty : Sisodia dynasty.
• Prominent ruler : Maharana Pratap.
• Description :
  • This war was fought between Akbar and Maharana Pratap.
  • Maharana Pratap showed bravery against the huge army of the Mughals.
  • This war became a symbol of Rajput self-respect and independence.
  • Although Maharana Pratap had to leave Mewar temporarily , he protected Mewar through guerrilla warfare.

7. Maratha and Rajput conflict ( 18th century)

• Major Rulers : Rulers of Jaipur , Jodhpur , and Udaipur.
• Description :
  • The Marathas intervened in the Rajput areas.
  • The Rajputs fought against the Marathas to protect their territories.
  • This conflict also highlights the lack of internal unity among the Rajputs.

8. British and Rajput conflict ( 19th century)

• Related dynasties : Various Rajput states.
• Description :
  • The British East India Company attempted to establish its dominance over the Rajput states.
  • Eventually many Rajput states entered into subsidiary treaties with the British power.
  • The Rajputs strategically resorted to agreements to preserve their culture and traditions.

The main causes of conflicts

1. Protection of Independence : Rajput rulers always struggled to maintain their independence.
2. Territorial Domination : Struggle for territorial expansion between various Rajput states.
3. Foreign Invasions : Protected its territories from invasions by Turks , Afghans , and Mughals.
4. Religious and cultural preservation : The struggle to preserve their religion , traditions and culture.

Significance of Rajput conflicts

• , self-respect and freedom in Indian history .
• These conflicts enriched Indian military traditions and architecture.
• The Rajput struggle shows that despite lack of unity and the impact of external invasions , the Rajputs remained steadfast to their ideals.

Causes of Collapse

The decline of the Rajput era was a result of many internal and external reasons. Despite the valour and bravery of the Rajputs , there were certain weaknesses and challenges that played a significant role in their decline. The following points explain the main reasons for this decline:

1. Internal strife and lack of unity

• Mutual conflict and disagreement among the Rajput states were the main reason for their downfall.
• The various Rajput clans failed to unite and confront the external invaders.
• As such, the struggle for power and regional dominance among the Chauhan , Parmar , and Sisodia dynasties weakened their collective power.

2. Strategic and military weakness

• The military technology of the Rajputs was old.
  • relied on traditional weapons (sword , spear) and strategies.
  • The Turks and the Mughals adopted advanced technologies such as gunpowder , cannons , and the bayonet.
• There was a greater reliance on the defences of forts , but they proved vulnerable under prolonged sieges.

3. Ignoring modern warfare techniques

• The Rajputs did not make adequate use of modern warfare technologies , such as artillery and gunpowder.
• Their warfare style was mostly based on open battle and individual valour , which failed against organised and technologically advanced armies.

4. Pressure from foreign invaders

• Arabs , Turks , Ghazni and Ghori weakened the Rajput kingdoms.
• The Rajputs were left alone in front of powerful rulers like the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals.
• The defeat of Prithviraj Chauhan in the Battle of Tarain ( 1192) and the defeat of Rana Sanga in the Battle of Khanwa ( 1527) severely affected the Rajput power.

5. Political and administrative weaknesses

• Attempts to centralise the empire under Rajput rule were limited.
• They remained divided into small states , due to which they could not organize themselves against external attacks.
• There was also a lack of innovations in the administrative structure.

6. Limitations of matrimonial and political alliances

• Matrimonial alliances made with the Mughals and other powers deprived the Rajputs of their political independence.
• The agreements and alliances of many Rajput rulers with Akbar proved to be a weakening of their struggle for independence.

7. Economic weaknesses

• The economic condition of the Rajput states became weak due to wars and internal conflicts.
• The prolonged war and high expenditure on defence of the forts led to depletion of economic resources.
• Not enough attention was paid to trade and agriculture , which were the main sources of economic power.

8. Social and cultural rigidity

• The rigid caste system and traditions in the society , like Jauhar and Sati , forced the society to lose flexibility.
• There was little openness to innovation and change , leading to stagnation in society.
• The status of women and discrimination against the lower classes of the society weakened the society.

9. Religious intolerance and cultural rigidity

• Rajputs fought to preserve their religion and traditions , but they did not make efforts to establish harmony with other religions and cultures.
• This benefited the foreign invaders , who could divide the society on communal basis.

10. Marathas and British intervention

• 18th century the Marathas put pressure on the Rajput states and restricted their independence.
• Later , the British East India Company subjugated the Rajput states.
• The Rajputs entered into Subsidiary Alliances , which ended their autonomy.

Effects of Rajput decline

1. Loss of Independence : The Rajput states lost their independence and came under foreign rule.
2. Preservation of Cultural Heritage : Although they were politically weak , the Rajputs preserved their culture , art , and architecture.
3. Changes in social structure : Rajput society remained staunchly loyal to its traditions , but had to adjust with the changing times.

The decline of the Rajput era was a complex process , a result of internal divisions , external invasions and social rigidities. However , their valour , self-respect and cultural contributions are immortal in Indian history.

Heritage of Rajput Era

Rajput Era It is a symbol of valour , bravery and cultural splendour in Indian history . The heritage of this era can be seen not only in physical forms , such as forts and temples , but also in its traditions , literature , art and architecture. The heritage of the Rajput period is an important part of India’s cultural and historical wealth .

1. Architecture

Architecture flourished during the Rajput period. Their fortifications , palaces , and temples still stand testimony to their cultural contributions.

( a) Forts

• features :
  • mountains , deserts and rivers.
  • Strategically invincible and an architectural marvel.
  • Reservoirs , tunnels and wall layers were the major works.
• Major forts :
  • Chittaurgarh Fort ( Mewar): The largest fort in India.
  • Kumbhalgarh Fort ( Rajasthan): Its wall is called the ‘ Great Wall of India ‘ .
  • Jaisalmer Fort : Fort in the Desert.
  • Amer Fort ( Jaipur): A wonderful example of Rajput art and architecture.

( b) Palace

• Major Palaces :
  • City Palace ( Udaipur): Surrounded by beautiful lakes.
  • Hawa Mahal ( Jaipur): Famous for its latticed windows.
  • Mehrangarh Palace ( Jodhpur): Huge and magnificent.
  • Umaid Bhawan Palace ( Jodhpur): Example of modern Rajput architecture.

( c) Temple

• features :
  • Carved pillars , intricate sculptures and excellent display of architecture.
  • A unique combination of religiosity and beauty in the temples.
• Major Temples :
  • Jain Temples of Dilwara ( Mount Abu): Famous for marble carvings.
  • Sun Temple ( Ranakpur): Intricate carvings and beauty.
  • Eklingji Temple ( Udaipur): Dedicated to Lord Shiva.

2. Art and Sculpture

Art and sculpture developed to a high level during the Rajput period.

• features :
  • Creation of statues of kings and gods.
  • Carving on stones and metals.
  • Religious and war related topics.
• Major idols :
  • Unique sculpture in the Chittaurgarh and Kumbhalgarh forts.
  • Statues of Jain Tirthankaras.

3. Painting

Various types of painting styles developed during the Rajput period.

• Main style :
  • Rajasthan School : Paintings of Jaipur , Mewar and Marwar.
  • Pahari style : Developed in Kangra and Basohli.
  • Kishangarh Style : Beautiful paintings focusing on Radha-Krishna.
• features :
  • Beautiful depiction of natural scenes.
  • Illustrations of religious and mythological stories.
  • Use of vibrant colours.

4. Literature and language

Literature and poetry also touched new heights during the Rajput period.

• Languages :
  • Sanskrit and Apabhramsha were the main languages.
  • Development of Rajasthani and Braj languages.
• Important Works :
  • Prithviraj Raso (Chandbardai): The heroic tale of Prithviraj Chauhan.
  • Religious texts of Jain and Brahmin religions.
  • Literature written by saints during the Bhakti movement.

5. Social conventions

• Jauhar and Shaka :
  • Jauhar by women for self-respect and battle to the last battle by men.
  • Jauhar of Chittor is historically famous.
• Welcoming the guests :
  • Following the spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava in Rajput culture.
• Outfit and Jewellery :
  • , Angrakha and Dhoti for men .
  • , Odhani and heavy jewellery for women .

6. Music and dance

• Folk Music and Dance :
  • Gauri dance , Kalbelia dance , and Ghoomar dance .
  • Heroic songs and devotional music.
• Music in Royal Courts :
  • Prevalence of classical music and instruments.

7. Military Heritage

• Weapons and Armor :
  • Swords , spears , bows and arrows.
  • Personal armor and shield.
• Security techniques of forts :
  • Reservoirs and secret tunnels.
  • Selection of inaccessible places to defend against enemies.

8. Religion and traditions

• The Rajput rulers were followers of Shaiva and Vaishnava traditions.
• Jainism also received patronage from the Rajput rulers.
• The religious heritage of the Rajputs is reflected in the temples and sculptures built by them.

The heritage of the Rajput era is still an integral part of Indian culture. The forts , palaces , and temples built by them are unique examples of architecture , while their valor and traditions remain a source of inspiration.