Rashtrakuto (Rathodo) Ka Itihas

This document is the first volume of a history book titled "Rashtrakuto (Rathodo) Ka Itihas" (History of the Rashtrakutas/Rathores) by Pandit Vishweshwarnath Reu. Published by the Archaeological Department, Jodhpur, it focuses on the history of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, specifically their lineage leading up to the arrival of Rao Siha Ji in Marwar.

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Core Focus: The book aims to trace the history of the Rashtrakuta dynasty from its origins to the point where Rao Siha Ji, a prominent ancestor of the Rathore clan, established himself in Marwar. It also delves into the Gahaḍavāla dynasty of Kannauj, which the author posits is a branch of the Rashtrakutas.

Methodology and Sources: The author emphasizes that due to a lack of comprehensive written records from the dynasty itself, this history is based on:

• Inscriptions and Copper Plates: Numerous grants, inscriptions, and coins were utilized.
• Literary and Historical Texts: Sanskrit, Arabic, and English books containing scattered information about the rulers were consulted.
• Scholarly Work: References are made to the work of scholars like Sir G. Bhandarkar, Dr. D. R. Bhandarkar, Dr. Hultzsch, Dr. Fleet, and C.V. Vaidya.

Key Themes and Arguments:

1. Origin and Migrations:

   • The book traces the earliest mentions of groups referred to as "Rathika," "Rastrika," or "Latika" in the Aśoka's edicts (e.g., in Shahbazgarhi, Mansehra, Girnar, Dhavali).
   • It discusses theories connecting these early groups to the Punjab region ("Aratta") and to the "Maharatta" people of Maharashtra.
   • The author argues that the Rashtrakutas likely originated in the northwest of India (Punjab) and later migrated southward, establishing their rule.

2. The Rashtrakuta Name and Identity:

   • The text explores the etymology of "Rashtrakuta," suggesting "Rashtra" meaning kingdom and "Kuta" meaning group, high, or excellent, thus implying rulers of great kingdoms.
   • It notes various forms of the name found in inscriptions: "Ratta," "Rathod," "Rathavar," "Rathavada," "Rathaur," "Rathōḍe," "Raṭhḍa," and "Raṭhoṛ."
   • The book addresses the claim that some Rashtrakuta inscriptions identify them as Chandravamshi (descendants of the Moon), while others suggest Suryavamshi (descendants of the Sun) or Agnivamshi (descendants of the Fire). The author argues that lineage claims in ancient texts can be fluid and influenced by religious patronage or poetic license, citing examples from the Guhilot and Solanki dynasties.

3. The Gahaḍavāla Connection:

   • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to establishing the Gahaḍavāla dynasty of Kannauj as a branch of the Rashtrakutas.
   • The author cites the marriage of a Solanki princess to a Rashtrakuta king of Kannauj and evidence suggesting an earlier Rashtrakuta presence in Kannauj.
   • The name "Gahaḍavāla" is theorized to have originated from their rule over Gadhapur (Kannauj).
   • It is argued that the founder of the Gahaḍavāla dynasty, Chandradeva, was likely a Rashtrakuta descendant who regained control of Kannauj after the decline of the Pratiharas.

4. Religious and Cultural Contributions:

   • The Rashtrakutas were patrons of various religions, including Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Jainism.
   • The author highlights the patronage of learned individuals and the flourishing of arts and sciences during their rule, citing famous scholars and artists of the era.
   • The magnificent Kailasa Temple at Ellora, carved out of rock, is presented as a prime example of their architectural and artistic achievements.
   • King Amoghavarsha I is particularly noted for his patronage of Jainism, his authorship of "Prashnottara Ratnamalika" and "Kavirajamarga," and his renunciation of the throne for spiritual pursuits.

5. Political Influence and Military Prowess:

   • The book details the vast empire of the Rashtrakutas, stretching from Konkan to China's borders, as described by Arab travelers like Sulaiman and Abu Dul Hasan Ali Ibn al-Mas'udi. They referred to the Rashtrakuta rulers as "Ballhara," a title indicating their supreme authority.
   • Key rulers like Dantidurga II, Dhruva I, Govinda III, Amoghavarsha I, and Krishna III are discussed for their military campaigns and territorial expansions, including their interactions with other contemporary dynasties like the Palas, Pratiharas, Chalukyas, and various southern Indian kingdoms.
   • The text highlights the military might of the Rashtrakutas, including large armies with elephants and cavalry.

6. Genealogy and Branches:

   • The book presents detailed genealogies of the Rashtrakutas, including the main lineage ruling from Manyakheta (Deccan), as well as branches in Lata (Gujarat), Saurashtra, and Rajasthan.
   • The arrival of Rao Siha Ji in Marwar is placed in the context of the decline of the Kannauj Gahaḍavālas after the invasions of Ghurid rulers. The lineage from Jayachandra to Rao Siha is traced.

7. Debunking Myths and Misconceptions:

   • The author critically examines accounts from sources like the Prithviraj Raso and Colonel James Tod's Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, pointing out inconsistencies, chronological errors, and mythological embellishments, particularly concerning the relationship between the Rathores, Gahaḍavālas, Chauhans, and the events surrounding the conflict with Ghurid rulers.
   • The author specifically addresses and refutes allegations against Jayachandra and Rao Siha Ji, presenting evidence to counter claims of betrayal or destruction of alliances.

Structure: The book appears to be structured thematically and chronologically, with chapters dedicated to:

• The Rashtrakutas (General introduction)
• The migration of Rashtrakutas from North to South
• The Rashtrakuta lineage
• Rashtrakutas and Gahaḍavālas (establishing the connection)
• Other objections (to the unification theory)
• Religion of the Rashtrakutas
• State of knowledge and arts during the Rashtrakuta period
• The prowess of the Rashtrakutas
• Conclusion
• Rashtrakuta inscriptions (miscellaneous)
• Rashtrakutas of Manyakheta (South)
• Rashtrakutas of Lata (Gujarat)
• Rattas (Rashtrakutas) of Soundatti
• Early Rashtrakutas in Rajasthan
• Gahaḍavālas of Kannauj
• Appendix (addressing false accusations)
• Index
• Errata

In essence, Vishweshwarnath Reu's "Rashtrakuto (Rathodo) Ka Itihas" is a scholarly endeavor to reconstruct the early history of a significant Indian dynasty, emphasizing critical analysis of available evidence and aiming to clarify historical connections, particularly the link between the Rashtrakutas and the Rathores of Marwar through the Gahaḍavāla lineage.