Marwad Ka Itihas Part 02

Added to library: September 2, 2025

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First page of Marwad Ka Itihas Part 02

Summary

This document is the second volume of "Marwar ka Itihas" (History of Marwar), authored by Pandit Vishweshwarnath Reu. It covers the period from Maharaja Man Singhji to the Vikram Samvat year 1965 (1638 CE). The book was published by the Archaeological Department, Jodhpur.

The document includes several commendatory notes and sanads from prominent figures and institutions recognizing the scholarly work of Pandit Reu. Notably, a "Special Sanad" from Maharaja Umaid Singh of Jodhpur highlights Pandit Reu's loyal, honest, and scholarly service over 30 years, acknowledging his significant contributions to the Museum, Public Library, and Archaeological Department. The Sanad specifically praises his successful completion of an impartial and scholarly "State History," a task that had been stalled for three generations. Scholars from India and abroad have commended his work for its patient care and diligent research.

A statement from S. G. Edgar, Public Works Minister of the Jodhpur Government, congratulates Pandit Reu on completing the second volume, emphasizing the scholarly manner in which he established historical facts related to Rathor history and the widespread appreciation his work received. Edgar highlights the difficulty of chronologically arranging historical events from diverse sources and commends Reu for quoting the sources of his information. He notes that Reu has completed a work that had been incomplete for over 36 years prior to his involvement, placing Marwar and history in general under a debt of gratitude.

Another statement from Narpat Singh, Minister-in-Waiting of the Jodhpur Government, describes the second volume as a unique work that sheds light on a difficult, historically obscure subject. He praises Reu for reclaiming the history of a mighty people from oblivion after 13 years of study and research, especially considering the work had been incomplete for over 50 years by his predecessors and the state had already incurred significant expenditure. Narpat Singh congratulates Reu on his success and compliments his critical inquiry and unbiased judgment.

The book's table of contents (Vishay Suchi) reveals a comprehensive structure, detailing the reigns of various Marwar rulers starting from Maharaja Man Singhji. It also includes numerous appendices (Parishisht) covering diverse topics such as:

  • The European Great War and the Jodhpur Sardar Risala.
  • Details of other villages donated by Marwar rulers.
  • Information about key departments of the Jodhpur State, categorized under the respective ministers (Chief Minister, Finance Minister, Home Minister, Revenue Minister, Judicial Minister, Military Secretary).
  • Royal taxes levied on Jagirdars.
  • Details of Tazimas and Saropavos given by the Marwar court.
  • Marwar's coinage, including descriptions of gold, silver, and copper coins, and inscriptions found on them.
  • A special statement regarding Kuchaman.
  • Information about Rao Amar Singhji.
  • Names of heroes killed in various wars on behalf of Marwar rulers.
  • Genealogical trees of the Rathor rulers of Marwar and other branches like Bikaner, Mabuba, Amjhera, Kishangarh, Ratlam, Sitamau, Sailana, Idar, etc.
  • An alphabetical index (Varnanukramnika) and errata sheets.

The detailed narrative begins with Maharaja Man Singhji's accession in 1803 CE, describing his early life, his struggles for the throne, his interactions with the East India Company, and the political events of his reign, including conflicts with Jaipur, the influence of the Nath sect, and the establishment of the 'Pustak Prakash' library. The subsequent chapters detail the reigns of Maharaja Takhat Singhji, Maharaja Jaswant Singhji (II), Maharaja Sardar Singhji, Maharaja Sumer Singhji, and Maharaja Umaid Singhji, covering significant events, administrative reforms, personal journeys, and cultural contributions. The volume also includes detailed appendices on various aspects of Marwar's administration, governance, military affairs, coinage, and notable individuals.

The text is a significant historical document, meticulously researched and presented, offering insights into the political, social, and administrative history of Marwar under Rathor rule. It highlights the author's deep commitment to historical accuracy and his efforts to provide a comprehensive and authoritative account.