Rajput Kingdoms
The dominance of Rajputs began from the seventh
and eighth centuries and lasted till the Muslim conquest in the twelfth
century. Even after that, many Rajput states continued to survive for a long
time. In the period of Muslim aggression, the Rajputs were the main defenders
of the Hindu religion and culture.
There are
several theories about the origin of Rajputs. They were considered as the
descendents of the foreign invaders and the Indian Kshatriyas. The foreign
invaders were Indianized and absorbed into Indian society. Many legends of
Rajputs support this theory. Therefore, it can be said that diverse elements
constitute in the shaping of the Rajput clan. They became homogenous by
constant intermarriage and by adopting common customs. They made war as their
chief occupation. However, trade and agriculture also prospered. The Arab
travellers refer to the prosperity of the land and the great trade of the cities.
They built strong forts.
The
Gurjara-Pratiharas were the earliest of the Rajput rulers. Its first great
leader was Harischandra. He conquered extensive territory in Rajaputana and
ruled with his capital at Bhinmal. The Gurjaras were in different branches. One
branch ruled Gujarat and another at Avanthi. The Pratiharas involved themselves
in a three-cornered contest with the Palas of Bengal and the Rashtrakutas of
Deccan. Later the Pratiharas became weak. The Chauhans, the most valiant of the
Rajput races, ruled Ajmir. Vigraharaj was their most important king, who
occupied Delhi. Therefore the Chauhans faced the onslaught of the Muslims under
Muhammad of Ghori. The Paramaras were also important Rajput rulers of this
period. The most important king was Bhoja. His military conquests as well as
cultural contributions remain notable in the history of Rajputs.
Constant fighting weakened the Rajputs. Also,
they never united against a common enemy. Their lack of political foresight and
constant rivalries prevented any combined opposition to the Muslim invaders.
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