Jhalawar district General information
Jhalawar district is one of the 33 districts of Rajasthan state in western India. The district is bounded on the northwest by Kota district, on the northeast by Baran district, on the east by Guna district of Madhya Pradesh state, on the south by Rajgarh and Shajapur districts of Madhya Pradesh state and on the west by Ratlam, Mandsaur and Nimach districts of Madhya Pradesh state. The district occupies an area of 6928 km². The district is part of Kota division. The historical city of Jhalawar is the administrative headquarters of the district.
History
The city of Jhalawar was founded by Jhala Zalim Singh (First), who was the then Dewan of Kota state (1791 A.D.). He established this township, then known as Chaoni Umedpura, as a cantonment. The township was surrounded with dense green forests and wild animals.
Jhala Zalim Singh often came here for hunting and he liked the place so much that he wanted to develop it as a township. The objective to develop this place as a military cantonment was
due to the fact that Maratha invaders passed through this central place from Malwa towards Kota to capture Hadoti states.
Founder of Jhalawar, Jhala Zalim Singh
Legendary Jhala Zalim Singh recognized the importance of this place and started to develop it as a military cantonment and township, so that he could use this place to attack and stop Maratha invaders before they can reach to Kota state.
Chaoni Umedpura got developed as a cantonment and township around 1803-04 A.D. Colonel Todd, who visited the region in December, 1821 described this area as the cantonment established by Jhala Zalim Singh plus a well-established township with large houses, havelis, and surrounding walls.
In 1838 A.D., English rulers seperated Jhalawar state from Kota state and gave it to Jhala Madan Singh, the grandson of Jhala Zalim Singh. He developed his administration services to develop the state of Jhalawar. He resided in Jhalara Patan for a long time and started to build The Garh Palace (1840 - 1845 A.D.). He was the first ruler of Jhalawar state and made his great contribution in the history of Jhalawar.
Jhala Madan Singh ruled Jhalawar from 1838 to 1845. After his death, Jhala Prithvi Singh became the ruler of Jhalawar, and ruled for around 30 years.
Rana Bhawani Singh Ji, who ruled Jhalawar state from 1899 to 1929 A.D., did remarkable work in the development of Jhalawar state. His active involvement was in the fields of social activities, public works (construction), education, administration, etc. During his time, a number of genius personalities of Jhalawar gave their active hand in these activities.
Origin of Name
The name of the district is derived from the erstwhile princely state of Jhalawar (which literally means the abode of the Jhalas, a Rajput clan).
Places of interest
Jhalawar Fort (Garh Palace)
The impressive fort in the centre of the town presently houses the collectorate and other district office. Some exquisite paintings and mirrors on the walls of ‘ zanana khas’ are of particular interest. Permission to see these painting can be obtained from the offices located here.
Government Museum
One of the oldest museums of Rajasthan established in 1915 A.D., it has a fine collection of paintings, rare manuscripts, idols and beautiful statues of Lakshminarayan.Vishnu, Krishna, Ardhanarishvar, Natraj and Trimurti.
Bhawani Natya Shala
Close to the fort is the most unusual theatre in India. It was constructed in 1921 A.D. where Parsi theatre was performed initially The building has been recently revived and offers an excellent insight into the theatre art.
Gagron Fort
The impressive fort, built over several centuries ( 8th to 14th centuries A.D.) stands witness to many great battles and is surrounded by the tranquil waters of the ahu and kali sindh rivers on the three sides. A beautiful mausoleum of a sufi saint Mitheshah just outside the fort is the venue for an annual colorful fair held during the month of Muharram.
Buddhist Caves and Stupas
The ancient Buddhist caves located in the village Kolvi. A colossal figure of buddha and the carved stupas are the most impressive structures in the caves.
Rain Basera (6KM)
A picturesque wooden cottage on the banks of the Kishan Sagar pond, it is as idyllic haunt for picnickers. The cottage was originally built elsewhere and later transported to the present location .Amazingly, it still retains much the original design.
Jhalarapatan (6KM)
The small town is popularly referred to as the ‘city of bells’ an entire township resides within the confines of a wall, that was built to protect the trade caravans as patan was the junction of caravan routes. A magnificent 10th century Surya Temple (Padam Nath Temple ) is the major attraction of the city. The temple has some splendid sculptures as well as, well preserved idols of Surya.
Chandrabhaga Temples(7KM)
On the banks of the magnificent Chandrabhaga river stand some splendid 7th century A.D. temples the intricately carved pillars and arched gateways are fine examples of the temple architecture and craftsmanship. The 11th century A.D. Shantinath jain temple is also noteworthy with fine murals and exquisite sculptures.
Buddhist Caves and stupas
The ancient Buddhist caves located in the village Kolvi. A colossal figure of buddha and the carved stupas are the most impressive structures in the caves.
Dag (100Km)
Renowned for some 12th century ad temples of Dageshware Mata, Rani ka maqbara and kama Varneshwar Mahadeo, Dag is a fascinating experience in the rustic ambience.
Kakuni (65Km)
Kakuni lies in baran District. Some ancient temples dot the ruins of this old township. A life- size idol of Lord Ganesha and a Shiva Lingam dating back to the 8th century A.D. are the impressive structures. Ruins of the Bhimgarh Fort, built by Raja Bhim Deo, lie on the other side of the Parvan River and are worth a visit.
Bhimsagar (24 km)
The dam built on the Uajad river is near the erstwhile capital of Khichi Chauhan rulers. Bhimsagar allows a glimpse of the Rajput and Mughal architecture in the ruins of palaces , temples and mosques.
Atishey Jain Temple, Chandkheri (35 km)
This 17th century temple is a notable example of temple architecture. It also has religious value having Adinath statue, 6 feet tall, in a sitting position. Accommodation and meals are available at reasonable prices in the temple area.
Dalhanpur (54)
The ancient ruins of impressive temples extend over an area of 2 km. Marvelously carved pillars, torans and exquisite sculptures make these temples interesting. Dolhanpur lies on the bank of River Chhappi, where an irrigation dam is being constructed. Dense forests with lush foliage add to the natural beauty of the spot.
Fort of Gangadhar (120 km)
An impressive edifice with the oldest rock inscription and some marvelously built temples.