shimla history

by

The present-day district of Shimla is a modern amalgamation that includes the territories of numerous erstwhile princely states within its borders.

History of Balsan State (Shimla Hill States)

1. Geographical Overview & Location

  • Location: Located about 50 kilometres east of Shimla, lying across the Giri river (a tributary of the Yamuna).
  • Present Status: Following its merger with Himachal Pradesh on April 15th, 1948, the territory now forms a part of the Theog tehsil in the Shimla district.

2. Origin and Early History

  • Lineage: Balsan was an offshoot of the ancient state of Sirmaur, tracing its origins to the old Rathore family of Sirmaur.
  • Foundation: Founded by Alak Singh prior to the 12th century A.D.
  • Early Status: The state was acquired by conquest (exact date unknown). Prior to the Gurkha invasion of 1805, it operated as a feudatory of Sirmaur.

3. Gurkha Invasion & British Alliance

  • Gurkha Period (1805): During the invasion, Balsan was subordinate to Kumharsain and was ruled by Jog Raj Singh.
  • British Assistance: Jog Raj Singh actively allied with the British forces. His most significant exploit was capturing the ‘Nagan fort’ along with 100 Gurkhas, whom he handed over to General Ochterlony.
  • Post-War Settlement: For his services, Jog Raj Singh was granted an independent sanad on September 15th, 1815.An initial obligation to supply 30 begaris (forced laborers) to the British was later commuted to an annual cash payment of Rs. 1080/-.

4. The Revolt of 1857

  • Loyalty to the Crown: Jog Raj Singh once again remained loyal to the British, providing invaluable safe shelter to Europeans residing in nearby areas.
  • Rewards (1858): In acknowledgment of this support, he was awarded a Khilat in a public Darbar in 1858, and the hereditary title of Rana was officially conferred (NO. LIV) upon the Chief of Balsan.

5. Administrative Status & State Relations

  • Order of Precedence: Balsan ranked eleventh among the Shimla Hill States.
  • Viceroy Relations: The Chief was not entitled to a formal visit with the Viceroy but was granted the privilege of one informal interview during a Viceroy’s term.
  • Judicial Powers: Rulers exercised full administrative power, limited only by the Superintendent of the Hill States holding control over death sentences.
  • Nazarana: The state was subject to nazarana levies until 1911, when these rules were abolished during the Delhi Coronation Darbar.

6. Line of Succession & Key Rulers

  • Rana Jog Raj Singh: Ruled during the critical periods of the Gurkha War and the 1857 Revolt. Died in 1867 at the age of 87.
  • Rana Bhup Singh II
  • Rana Bir Singh
  • Rana Attar Singh
  • Rana Ran Bahadur Singh
  • Tikka Vidya Bhushan Singh: The last Rana of Balsan. Born on June 10th, 1938, he succeeded his father upon his abdication in 1943 and ruled until the state’s merger in 1948.

History of Bhajji State (Shimla Hill States)

1. Geographical Location & Boundaries

  • Topography: Located on the banks of the river Nauti Khad and the Satluj river. The territory culminated in the Shali peak (about 3,208 meters above mean sea level).
  • Distance: Located nearly 40 km away from Shimla.
  • Borders:
    • North: Keonthal, Madhan, Koti, Patiala, and Dhami
    • East: Sangri and Kumharsain
    • South: Suket
    • West: Baghal

2. Origin and Early History

  • Lineage: Founded by the descendants of the Kutlehar state (in Kangra). The founder was a Rajput heir, the second son of Jaspal (the 24th descendant of Kutlehr).
  • The Founder: The state was founded by Cheru, who subsequently changed his name to Udaipal after establishing Bhajji.
  • Capital Shift: The 29th descendant in succession from Cheru, named Sohan Pal, founded the village of Sunni on the banks of the Satluj and formally transferred the capital from ‘Mul Bhajji’ to ‘Sunni’.

3. Economy & Notable Features

  • Chief Town (Sunni): Famous for its medicinal sulphur springs and a suspension bridge across the Satluj river.
  • Trade & Export: Bhajji was notable for the export of opium, which was highly regarded for its purity.

4. Administrative Status & State Relations

  • Order of Precedence: Bhajji ranked ninth in the order of precedence among the Shimla Hill States.
  • British/Viceroy Relations: The Rana was not entitled to pay a formal visit to the Viceroy. However, he was allowed the privilege of one informal interview during His Excellency’s term of office.
  • Military: The state maintained a local force of 32 men equipped with 2 serviceable guns.
  • Levies: Bhajji was liable to the Nazarana rules until 1911, when all such levies were abolished during the Delhi Coronation Darbar.

5. Gurkha Invasion & British Restoration

  • Invasion (1803-1815): The state was overrun by the Gurkhas.
  • Restoration (1815): After the Gurkhas were expelled by the British, the Rana of Bhajji, Rudar Pal, was restored to power. He received a sanad confirming his possession under the condition of usual feudal service during wartime.
  • Abdication: Rana Rudar Pal abdicated in 1842, handing the state over to his son, Ran Bahadur Singh, and becoming a recluse at Haridwar.

6. Line of Succession & Key Rulers

  • Rana Ran Bahadur Singh (Ruled 1824–1875): Formally installed in April 1844. In 1855, he was granted a Khilat valued at Rs. 1,100/-. Through this, his previous obligation to maintain 40 begaris (forced laborers) for the British was commuted to an annual cash payment of Rs. 1,440/-.
  • Rana Durga Singh (Ruled 1875–1913): He established matrimonial alliances with ranis from Mandi, Suket, Kangra, and Mahli.
  • Rana Birpal (Ruled 1918–1940): Succeeded to the throne in 1913 as an infant (the state was run by a manager during his minority). Educated at Aitchison Chief’s College, Lahore.
  • Rana Ram Chandra Pal Singh (Ruled 1940–1948): The last Rana of Bhajji. Granted full ruling powers on April 17th, 1947. Educated at Queen’s Mary College and Aitchison Chief’s College, Lahore. Post-independence, he joined the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), retiring in 1982. He passed away in 2012.

7. Post-Independence Merger

  • In 1948, Bhajji was officially integrated and made a tehsil of the newly formed Himachal Pradesh.
  • Present Status: Today, the former territory of Bhajji is a part of the Sunni tehsil within the Shimla district.

History of Koti State

1. Geographical Overview & Location

  • Koti state was located to the east of Shimla.
  • The total area of the state was approximately 70 square kilometres.
  • It shared its North-East boundary with Bhajji, while Patiala, Shimla, and Keonthal states formed its western boundaries.

2. Origin and Foundation

  • The state was founded by descendants of the Kutlehar state located in Kangra.
  • The founders of Bhajji and Koti were real brothers, and both states were established simultaneously.
  • The 24th ruler of Kutlehar had five sons; four of them (‘Cheru’, ‘Chand’, ‘Shogu’, and ‘Bhogu’) along with their sister crossed the Satluj river and initially settled at ‘Mool Bhajji’.
  • Shogu and Bhogu, along with their sister, eventually moved towards Fagu.
  • Bhogu married a Kanet maiden and established the village ‘Fagyana’.
  • Shogu and his sister turned toward the spiritual world and were held in high esteem by local residents. Shogu came to be worshipped as a ‘Devta’ in the Fagu area, and his sister as a ‘Devi’ in Keonthal and Tharoch.

3. Rulers and Capital

  • The state had a total of 24 rulers, beginning with Thakur Chand.
  • For a long period, ‘Mool Koti’ served as the capital of the state.
  • The capital was later shifted from ‘Koti’ to ‘Kayar Koti’ by Tara Chand Thakur,

4. Gurkha Invasion and British Relations

  • In 1809, the Gurkhas attacked Koti, placing it under their control and collecting an annual tax of Rs. 2000/-.
  • Following the defeat of the Gurkhas in the 1815 Anglo-Gurkha war, Koti once again became a tributary to the Keonthal state.
  • During the 1857 revolt, the Raja of Koti, Hari Chand, assisted British nationals who were seeking protection after fleeing from Shimla.
  • In recognition of his services, the British granted Hari Chand the title of ‘Rana‘.
  • Later, Rana Raghuvir Chand rented out a portion of his territory for an annual fee of Rs. 2825/- to be utilized for the ‘Shimla Water Supply’ scheme.

5. Post-Independence Merger

  • When Himachal Pradesh came into existence in 1948, ‘Koti’ was merged with the Mahasu district and became part of the Kasumpatti tehsil.
  • As of now, Koti is incorporated as part of the Shimla (Rural) tehsil.

DARKOTI STATE: QUICK REVISION NOTES

1. Basic Profile & Geography

  • Size: Very small; only 8 sq. miles.
  • Founder: Durga Singh (a scion of the House of Jaipur/Marwar).

2. Administration & Economy (The “Exemptions”)

  • Tribute: Excused from paying tribute due to its tiny size.
  • Security: Maintained zero military force or police.
  • Revenue: State forests were managed by the government, but the net profits were paid to the Rana.
  • Taxes: Liable to Nazarana rules of 1911 (later abolished at the Delhi Coronation Darbar).

3. The “Sosum” Village Mix-Up (Important Fact)

  • 1839: During a land settlement, the Darkoti’s village of Sosum was mistakenly included in Kotkhai (Shimla).
  • 1843: The administrative error was caught and Sosum was safely restored to Darkoti.

4. Post-Independence Merger

  • Date: April 15th, 1948 (Formation of Himachal Pradesh).
  • Merged Into: Mahasu district.

THAROCH STATE: QUICK REVISION NOTES

1. Geography & Foundation

  • Position: Located on the bank of the river Tons (a Yamuna tributary), situated beyond Jubbal and near the Dehradun border.
  • Founder: Founded around the 15th century by Kishan Singh, a Sisodia Rajput and descendant of Deo Karan (a prince of Udaipur).
  • Early History: Originally a part of Sirmaur state, the territory was bestowed as a gift upon Kishan Singh.

2. Gurkha Period & Succession Disputes (1819–1843)

  • Gurkha Attack: During the invasion, the nominal ruler was Thakur Karam Singh, but due to his age and infirmities, executive administration was held by his brother, Jhobu.
  • Initial British Sanad (1819): After Karam Singh’s death in 1819, the British granted a sanad to Jhobu. An obligation to supply eight begaris was later commuted to an annual cash payment of Rs. 288/-.
  • The 1838 Rebellion: Karam Singh’s son, Ranjit Singh, claimed the throne and formed a strong faction. Consequently, the incompetent and unpopular Jhobu was forced to abdicate in favor of his own son, Shyam Singh.
  • Temporary Merger: Intrigues by Jhobu and Ranjit Singh forced Shyam Singh to abdicate in 1841, leading to Tharoch being incorporated into Jubbal state under British control.
  • Pensions: The British Government jointly sanctioned an annual pension of Rs. 500/- for both Jhobu and Shyam Singh.

3. Restoration & Later Rulers

  • Thakur Ranjit Singh: His claim was finally acknowledged, and he occupied the throne on October 6, 1843, receiving a sanad in perpetuity subject to military service.
  • Titles: The chief previously held the title of Rana, but upon restoration in 1843, rulers were styled as Thakurs.
  • Thakur Kedar Singh:
  • Thakur Surat Singh:The permanent title of Rana was conferred upon him in 1929.

4. Administration & Merger

  • Tributes: The state was subject to the Nazarana rules until 1911, when all such levies were abolished at the coronation Darbar.
  • Military: The state maintained a small force of 6 armed police.
  • Post-Independence: On April 15, 1948, Tharoch was merged with Chaupal and integrated into the newly formed state of Himachal Pradesh.

DHADI STATE: QUICK REVISION NOTES

1. Origin & Geographical Foundation

  • Lineage: Dhadi was initially an offshoot of the Tharoch state.
  • Founder: The state was established by a brave Sisodia Rajput.
  • Geographical Anchors: The founder settled near the confluence of the ‘Tons’ and ‘Pabbar’ rivers.
  • Territory Location: Dhadi was specifically founded on the right side of the river Pabbar.

2. Shifting Dependencies & The Gurkha Period

  • Early Dependencies: Dhadi formerly operated as a dependency of Tharoch, and subsequently became a dependency of Bushahr.
  • Gurkha Supremacy: During the period of Gurkha dominance, Dhadi was annexed to Rawingarh.

3. British Reorganization & Post-Independence

  • 1891 Separation: The British authorities made the decision to separate Dhadi and Rawingarh, making them independent from each other.
  • 1896 Status Change: Shortly after, in 1896, both Dhadi and Rawingarh were made feudatory to Jubbal state.
  • Merger (1948): On April 15th, 1948, coinciding with the formation of Himachal Pradesh, Dhadi officially became a part of the Jubbal tehsil within the Mahasu district.

RAWINGARH THAKURAIS: QUICK REVISION NOTES

1. Geography & Basic Profile

  • Status: Rawingarh state was a feudatory of Jubbal.
  • Area: Comprised about 7 square miles (nearly 12 sq. km.) of territory.
  • Topography: The territory was centered around the fort of Rawingarh. This fort crowns an isolated hill on the left bank of the river Pabbar, which is crossed by a wooden bridge in this location.

2. Origin, Lineage & Culture

  • Founder: Founded by Duni Chand, who was the third son of the ancient/last ruler of Sirmaur, Raja Ugar Chand.
  • Lineage: The Thakurs of Rawain were from the same stock as the Jubbal family.

3. Historical Timeline & British Relations

  • Early History: The state was originally a fief of Tehri. The Eastern portion was run by Bushahri forces sometime before the Gurkha invasion.
  • Gurkha Period: During the invasion, the ruler was Himmat Singh. He retained his hold on the cis-Pabbar portion with the help of the ruler of Jubbal.
  • Post-Gurkha Partition: After the Gurkhas were expelled, the state was partitioned among the British, the Raja of Garhwal, and the Rana of Rawain.
  • Shimla Exchange (1830): The portion of land retained by the British was given to Keonthal in 1830 in exchange for land taken up for the station of Shimla.

4. Key Rulers & Administration

  • Thakur Kedar Singh (Ruled 1904-1950):
    • Succeeded Thakur Hari Chand in 1904 and was granted full powers. However, death pronouncements by him required confirmation from the Superintendent Shimla Hill States.
    • The affairs of the state eventually fell into some confusion. On the Thakur’s application, a Government official was appointed to help him in the administration.
    • His period coincided with political awakening in India, with many parts of the state experiencing the Praja Mandal movement for the democratization of administration in princely states.
    • He died in 1950.
  • Tikka Fateh Singh: He was the last ruler of Rawingarh,

6. Post-Independence Merger

  • In 1948, Rawingarh was officially merged with Himachal Pradesh.
  • At present, the territory is a part of the Jubbal tehsil within the Shimla district.

KHANETI STATE

  • Foundation: Founded by Sabir Chand (son of Kirat Singh) with his brother Jai Singh. They initially ruled Khaneti, Kotkhai, and Kotgarh.
  • The Split (6th Gen): After a clash, Duni Chand got Khaneti; Ahimal Singh got Kotgarh.
  • 15th Century: Thakur Tara Chand defeated Garhwal. Later, he was crushed by Kullu, forcing him to flee to ‘Debari’. Khaneti lost significant territory to neighbors.
  • Post-Gurkha Era: Became a feudatory of Bushahr.
  • 1890: Declared independent under Lal Thakur.
  • 20th Century: Ruled by Thakur Among Chand (Hindu Rajput, relative of Kumharsain Rana, educated at Aitchinson College).

DELATH STATE: MICRO NOTES

  • Foundation: Founded by Prithi Singh (brother of Kumharsain’s founder, Kirat Chand).
  • Geography: Area of 4 sq. miles (6.5 sq. km.); divided into 3 parganas.
  • Status & Tribute: Feudatory of Bushahr. Paid Rs. 150/- to Bushahr and Rs. 30/- to Bushahr’s wazir.
  • Gurkha & British Era: Under Gurkha control from 1810 to 1815. The British took over in 1815 and handed control back to Bushahr in 1816.
  • Last Ruler: Pratap Singh.
  • Post-Independence: On 15th April 1948, merged with Bushahr into Mahasu district of HP.
  • Present Status: Part of Rampur tehsil in Shimla district.

RATESH STATE: MICRO NOTES

  • Foundation: Fief of Keonthal founded by Rai Singh (brother of Sirmaur’s Raja Karam Prakash).
  • Geography: Area of 12 sq. miles (20 sq. km.).
  • Status: Smallest semi-independent feudatory of Keonthal; capital sentences required Superintendent of Shimla Hill states’ confirmation.
  • Historical Turmoil: After Gurkha invasion, ruler Kishan Singh was exiled; Keonthal and Balsan seized parganas, but territory was eventually restored.
  • Last Ruler: Thakur Shamsher Singh (succeeded 1925), who signed the Himachal Pradesh accession.

BUSHAHR STATE: COMPLETE REVISION NOTES

1. Geographical Profile & Antiquity

  • Antiquity: Recognized as one of the oldest hill states in the Western Himalayas, second only to Kashmir.
  • Area & Extent: Covered 3,820 square miles (approx. 6200 sq. km.), including the territory of Saire.
  • Topography: Mostly lay within the drainage area of the Satluj river (which ran for nearly 160 km within the state). Flanked by two immense snow-clad mountain chains on the North and South.

2. Foundation & Legends of Origin

  • Legend 1 (The Banasur Encounter): Founded by Pradhuman (son of Lord Krishan). Pradhuman came to marry the daughter of Banasur, the local chief of Shonitpur (modern-day Sarahan). Banasur died in an encounter, and Pradhuman took over the Bushahr and Kinnaur regions.
  • Legend 2 (The Divine Ordination): Pradhuman, who came from ‘Kanchanaapuri’ in the South, was on a pilgrimage to the ‘Bhimakali’ temple at Sarahan. The throne was vacant, and Goddess Bhimakali ordained the first to enter the palace gate would rule. Pradhuman entered first. His elder brother was made the royal priest with a Jagir at Village Rawain.
  • Historical Theory (C.F. Kennedy): Founded by Danbar Singh, an immigrant Rajput from the Deccan, in 1412 A.D.
  • First Capital: The original seat of government was at Kamru.

3. Early History & The Kullu Connection

  • Late 7th Century A.D.: Kullu was overrun by Meru Varman of Chamba. Shittal Pal (son of Datesh Pal of Kullu) fled and took refuge in Bushahr.
  • 780-800 A.D.: Jareshwar Pal (6th generation from Shittal Pal) successfully recovered Kullu from Chamba with the military help of Bushahr (taking advantage of a Kira invasion of Chamba).
  • Capital Shift: The capital was shifted from Kamru to Sarahan in the early 10th century A.D.
  • Raja Chattar Singh (110th from Pradhuman): Conquered the entire area South of Sarahan, including Kinnaur. Bushahr became one of the three paramount powers in the Shimla Hill States (alongside Bilaspur and Sirmaur).

4. The Golden Era: Reign of Raja Kehri Singh

  • Profile: Son of Chattar Singh. Known as an ‘ajanabahu’ (possessing long arms that could touch his knees while standing upright, like Lord Ram Chandra).
  • The Mughal Title (Chhatarpati): Attended a great durbar in Delhi held by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. A small cloud shaped like a ‘Chhatra’ (umbrella) shaded Kehri Singh wherever he went. Pleased by this divine favor, Aurangzeb conferred upon him the title of ‘Chhatarpati’.
  • Paramountcy: He reduced the Rajas of Sirmaur, Garhwal, Mandi, and Suket to tribute. He subdued the Thakurs of Keonthal, Kotkhai, Kumharsain, Balsan, Theog, and Darkoti. (He also permanently gave away the outer Saraj Kullu state).
  • The Tibetan War & Treaty (Late 17th Century):
    • A contemporary of ‘Grajayadoke’, ruler of Tibet.
    • The Raja of Ladakh annexed Tibetan territory, and Tibetan Commander ‘Guldenchhen’ prepared to take it back.
    • Kehri Singh intervened, defeated Guldenchhen, and signed a landmark border treaty.
    • Treaty Terms: “Till the black crow does not turn white, till Mansarover does not go dry, till whole of the snow from above the Kailash does not melt, the Kailash will remain the boundary line between Kinnaur and Tibet.”

5. Mid-Rulers & Strategic Alliances

  • Raja Ugar Singh: Captured the pargana of Suhel and gifted it to Kumharsain (maintaining suzerainty). Maintained dominance over Keonthal, Kotkhai, and Theog. He ended a long-standing hostility with Sirmaur by marrying a daughter of the Sirmaur house. He died in 1811.

6. The Gurkha Invasion & Resistance (1803–1815)

  • Minority Rule & Weakness: Ugar Singh was succeeded by his 8-year-old son, Mahinder Singh. The state was run by the Rani and hereditary wazirs. The army was severely weak (3,000 men, but only 1,000 with matchlocks).
  • The Invasion: Gurkhas exploited this weakness and held most of Bushahr (except Kinnaur) from 1803 to 1815. The minor Raja and his mother fled to Kinnaur. Gurkhas destroyed state archives and looted treasuries.
  • Kinnaura Resistance: An attempt by Gurkhas to reach the Kamru treasure was ambushed by the Kinnaura guerilla force in a night attack at Sholtu bridge.
  • The Turning Point (1814-1815): The British declared war on the Gurkhas in 1814. Wazir ‘Tikka Ram’ and ‘Badri Dass’ led the Kinnaura army.
  • Key Sabotage: A decisive battle was fought at Sholtu bridge (near Chirgaon village). Locals strategically destroyed the Wangtu bridge over the Satluj river, halting the Gurkha march and sealing their fate.

7. British Protectorate & Later Succession

  • 1815 Return: The Gurkhas were defeated, and Raja Mahinder Singh returned to Sarahan.
  • The Sanad of November 6th: The British granted a Sanad restoring Mahinder Singh’s former territories, with two crucial exceptions: Rawin and Kotgarh.
  • Fate of Rawin & Kotgarh: These were retained as British possessions and later transferred to Keonthal in exchange for the land that became Shimla.
  • New Status: Bushahr officially became a British protectorate.
  • Succession: Raja Mahinder Singh died at the age of 47 in 1850 A.D. He was succeeded by his minor son, Shamsher Singh.

8. The Hereditary Kanait Wazir Families

The state’s administration and influence were heavily dominated by three Kanait hereditary wazir families:

  • The Pawari Family: Immigrants from Kullu.
    • Key Figures: Manohar Dass and Ran Bahadur Singh.
    • Revolt: Ran Bahadur Singh was highly esteemed in Kinnaur. He claimed independence for Dodra Kawar, which was rejected by Tikka Ragunath Singh. A local revolt erupted in Dodra Kawar in favor of Ran Bahadur Singh, who successfully defied the Raja.
  • The Kohal Family: Immigrated from Garhwal seven generations prior.
  • The Shua Family: The only wazir family that were native to the Bushahr state.

9. Minority of Raja Shamsher Singh & British Interference (1850)

  • Succession: In 1850, Raja Shamsher Singh succeeded to the throne as a minor.
  • British Restructuring: To deliberately reduce the Raja’s powers, the British established an arrangement of three Wazirs (ministers) of equal rank.
  • Administrators: The state was first run by ‘Mansukh Das’ (Regent), and later by ‘Shyam Lal’ (Tehsildar of Nurpur), who acted as Manager under the agent for the hill states.

10. The 1857 Uprising and Bushahr’s Defiance

  • The Rebellion: During the 1857 uprising, Raja Shamsher Singh showed open resentment by stopping tribute payments and treating British officials with discourtesy.
  • The British Divide: Lord William Hay (Deputy Commissioner of Shimla) wanted to punish him. However, Sir John Lawrence (Chief Commissioner of Punjab) vetoed this. Thus, the Raja’s defiance was overlooked and he went unpunished.

11. The 1859 Agrarian Revolt

  • The Cause: In 1859, Fateh Singh (an illegitimate brother of Shamsher Singh) instigated a farmer’s revolt against a new system of paying revenue in cash (introduced in 1854 by ‘Munshi Ram Lal’). Farmers left their fields uncultivated in protest.
  • Resolution: Mr. G. Barnes (Superintendent of Shimla Hill States) intervened and restored the old system of payment in kind.
  • Loss of Royal Power: Mr. Barnes further enhanced the Wazirs’ powers, leading the Raja to retreat into “easy living,” leaving the state to poorly performing hereditary Wazirs.

12. Abdication & Reign of Tikka Ragunath Singh (1887–1898)

  • Forced Abdication: Due to poor administration, Raja Shamsher Singh was forced to abdicate in 1887 in favor of his only legitimate son, Tikka Ragunath Singh.
  • 1883 Escape Folklore: Folk songs describe Tikka Ragunath escaping to Sirmaur in 1883 to avoid a proposed marriage alliance with Mandi (which he later accepted).
  • Major Achievement: He executed an excellent land settlement in the region in 1893-94.
  • Adviser & Death: Guided by trusted adviser Wazir Ran Bahadur Singh, he ruled successfully until his death in 1898.

13. Succession Crisis & Total British Control

  • Tikka Ragunath Singh’s infant son died 11 months after succeeding him.
  • Shamsher Singh, still alive, attempted to regain the throne.
  • The British forcefully intervened, rejecting Shamsher Singh. They appointed Rai Sahib Mangat Ram (former manager of Kumharsain state) as Chief Wazir with the full powers of a ruler.

14. The Lineage Crisis & Adoption Controversy

  • Fearing the extinction of his royal line at age 70, Shamsher Singh sought an heir, as his only surviving son, ‘Padam Singh’ (born of a concubine), was deemed illegitimate.
  • He adopted ‘Surender Shah’, younger brother of the Garhwal ruler.
  • The British initially recognized this but later canceled the adoption and expelled Surender Shah from the state for his complicity in the attempted murder of a forest officer, Mr. Gibson.

15. Continuing Defiance (1898-1899) & Final Revolt (1906)

  • The Royal Snub: In autumn 1898-99, Shamsher Singh refused to meet the visiting Superintendent of Shimla Hill States. He was fined Rs. 1,000/- for disrespecting the paramount power.
  • Ran Bahadur Singh’s End: Wazir Ran Bahadur Singh was arrested but released after Tikka Ragunath’s death. In 1906, he made a final attempt to make Dodra Kawar an independent principality with local support. He was arrested again in 1906 and died after spending two months in Shimla jail.

16. Raja Padam Singh: The Last Ruler (1914–1947)

  • Succession: The British finally recognized Padam Singh as the legitimate heir in 1914. Born in 1873, he was officially installed on 30th November 1917 and ruled until Indian independence in 1947.
  • The Raj Tilak (1914): The coronation mark was placed by the Raja of Bilaspur. Attendees included the Rana of Kumharsain, Raja of Sangri, and feudatory Thakurs of Khaneti and Delath. The Raja of Jubbal was represented by his brother, Kanwar Isri Singh.
  • Honors & Marriages: He was awarded the C.I.E. in June 1931. He had 9 wives, including Rani Jwale Dei (died 22nd July 1949) and his 9th wife, Rani Shanta Devi (daughter of Thakur Bir Singh of Dhadi), who became the Rajmata.

17. Economic Treaties: The Forest Leases

  • 1864 & 1871: The Raja leased his forests to the British for 50 years (1864) and signed a supplementary timber extraction agreement in 1871.
  • 1877 Consolidation: These were combined into a single agreement paying the Raja Rs. 10,000 annually with provisions for forest conservancy.
  • 1929 Revision: The old agreement was terminated in 1927. A fresh 25-year agreement (effective 1st November 1928) was signed with stricter conservancy rules, raising the annual payment massively to Rs. 1,00,000 per annum.

18. Sanad Obligations & State Military Strength

  • Military Duty: The Raja was required by Sanad to join the British Army with his armed retainers and hill porters upon request, and to construct roads within his territory.
  • Tribute: The original Sanad tribute of Rs. 15,000/- was heavily reduced in 1847 to Rs. 3945 to compensate for the abolition of transit duties.
  • Armed Forces: The state maintained a modest force of 75 Infantry and Police.

19. The Praja Mandal Movement & The Sarahan Meeting (1948)

  • The Struggle Begins: A public movement was launched in Rampur Bushahr to demand its merger with the Indian Union.
  • March 1948: A pivotal public meeting was held at Sarahan, presided over by freedom fighter Master Annu Lal.
  • The Grievance: Speakers publicly highlighted the severe injustices and atrocities perpetuated by state officials against the innocent masses.

20. The ‘Gaura’ Incident and Declaration of People’s Rule

  • The Arrests & Rescue: State police arrested several leaders, including Master Annu Lal. Before the police could reach ‘Gaura’, agitated masses intercepted them and freed their leaders.
  • Counter-Arrest by the Public: The D.S.P. Rampur and the local Magistrate arrived at Gaura with armed police. Showing immense courage, the public faced them down, arrested all the state officials, and marched to Rampur.
  • People’s Rule: Upon reaching Rampur, the masses officially declared “people’s rule”.

21. The Battle of Rampur & The Final Merger

  • The State’s Retaliation: Baldev Singh, the Diwan of the state (who was stationed at Shimla), moved towards Rampur with armed police to suppress the uprising.
  • The Atrocity at Rampur: A fierce battle took place at ‘Rampur’ where many protesting people were killed. In a brutal act, police tied their dead bodies with stones and threw them into the river Satluj.
  • The Breaking Point: This horrific act agitated the people even further. Sensing a full-scale, uncontrollable revolt, Raja Padam Singh had no option left but to formally accept the integration of the state with the Indian Union.

22. Post-Independence Royal Lineage

  • Virbhadra Singh was the son of the last ruler, Raja Padam Singh.
  • Vikramaditya Singh is the son of Virbhadra Singh.

Here are your complete, final revision notes on the history of Kumharsain State, compiled chronologically. All important names, dates, locations, and key facts are bolded for high-yield memorization.

KUMHARSAIN STATE: COMPLETE REVISION NOTES

1. Geographical Profile & Boundaries

  • Location: Situated on the left bank of the Satluj river, immediately below Kotgarh and North of Narkanda (the famous resort town located within this state).
  • Capital: Kumharsain Village, located 40 miles East of Shimla on the Hindustan Tibet Road (NH).
  • Borders:
    • North: The Satluj river.
    • South: Ghund, Balsan states, and the Kotkhai area.
    • East: Bushahr, Khaneti, and Kotgarh.
    • West: The states of Shangri, Bhajji, and Keonthal.

2. Origin and Foundation

  • Common Lineage: Shared a common origin with Khaneti, Delath, Karangla, and Kotkhai.
  • Previous Rule: Before its formal foundation, the territory was ruled by Koteshwar Devta.
  • The Founder: Founded by Kirat Chand (Singh) sometime in the 11th century.
  • Migration: Migrated from Gaya due to the fear of Mahmud Ghazani. Kirat Chand and his four brothers initially settled at Karnangla (though some accounts say Kumharsain first).

3. Early Rulers & The Kullu Conflict

  • Raja Ajmer Singh: Known as one of the bravest rulers of Kumharsain.
  • Expansions: He successfully occupied the forts of Shari and Shangri (Shangri was then under Kullu State authority).
  • The Kullu War: The Kullu ruler, Raja Man Singh, attacked Kumharsain in retaliation. Ajmer Singh defeated Raja Man Singh at ‘Karangla’ and then at ‘Nagi’, forcing the Kullu ruler to flee across the Satluj river.

4. The Gurkha Invasion Era & British Reorganization (1815)

  • Pre-Gurkha Status: Prior to the invasion, Kumharsain was a tributary of Bushahr, but it acted as the overlord over ‘Balsan’, ‘Bharauli’, and ‘Madhan’.
  • The Gurkha Invasion: On the arrival of the Gurkhas, Rana Kehar Singh of Kumharsain fled and took refuge in Kullu, returning only in 1815.
  • Post-War Shifts (1815 A.D.): Following the Anglo-Gurkha war, General Ochterlony restored Kumharsain to Rana Kehar Singh.
  • Loss of Tributaries: The British made Kumharsain independent from Bushahr, but refused to recognize Kumharsain’s rights over Balsan, Bharauli, and Madhan, making those tributaries independent as well.

5. Rana Kehar Singh & The British Sanad

  • The 1816 Sanad: The British issued a sanad to Kehar Singh in 1816. It prescribed the maintenance of 40 begaris for permanent government service (later commuted to an annual cash payment of Rs. 1440/-).
  • Succession Crisis (1839): Kehar Singh died in 1839 without a male heir, causing the state to temporarily lapse to the British government.
  • Restoration (1840): Recognizing Kehar Singh’s attachment to British interests during the Nepalese war, the British appointed Pritam Singh, a distant collateral, to the throne in 1840.

6. Rana Pritam Singh: The Loyalist Ruler (1840–1858)

  • Military Loyalty: He proved exceptionally loyal to the British. During the first Sikh war, he crossed the Satluj with 300 matchlock men and successfully laid siege to the Kullu fort of Srigarh. He also helped the British during the 1857 uprising.
  • Tribute Revision: His sanad was identical to Kehar Singh’s, but the annual tribute was raised to Rs. 2,000/-.

8. Rana Hira Singh & The Council of Regency (1874–1914)

  • Mental Incapacity: Owing to his “unsound mind,” the state was administered by a Council of Manager (Council of Regency)

9. Rana Vidyadhar Singh (1914–1945)

  • Education & Accession: Born in 1895 and educated at Aitchison’s College Lahore. Succeeded his father in 1914. Received powers of a Manager in 1917 and full powers in 1920.
  • British Relations: He was not entitled to a formal visit to the viceroy but was allowed an informal interview during the viceroy’s term.
  • Administrative Reforms:
    • The state was liable to Nazarana rules up to 1911, when all such levies were abolished at the coronation Darbar.
    • In 1927, land settlement was successfully re-introduced in the Kumharsain state.
  • Death: He died in 1945, leaving behind a son (Rana Sumeshwar Singh) and a daughter.

DHAMI STATE: COMPLETE REVISION NOTES

1. Geographical Profile & Capital

  • Size & Location: One of the pettiest of the Shimla Hill States, with an area of 26 square miles (45 sq. km.). Situated 16 miles west of Shimla.
  • Capital: The capital of the state was ‘Halog’.
  • Borders: Bounded by Bhajji in the North, Patiala in the South-East, and Baghal in the West.

2. Origin and Foundation

  • Unique Lineage: Among the hill states, Dhami was the only state founded by the descendants of Prithvi Raj Chauhan.
  • Ancestral Migration: The ancestors of the founder were driven out of Delhi by Shah-bu-ddin Gauri and initially settled at Rajpura in the Ambala district before moving to Dhami.
  • The Founder: The state was founded by Govind Pal in the 13th century. He established the state by defeating the local Mavanas who had occupied the territory.
  • Naming Convention: In the beginning, the rulers of Dhami used the suffix ‘Pal’. The 58th ruler was the first to adopt the ‘Singh’ suffix.
  • Early Status: For its initial 400 years, Dhami operated as a feudatory of Bilaspur.

3. Early Rulers & The Gurkha Era

  • Rana Dalel Singh: Ruled the state from 1778 to 1803.
  • Rana Pritam Singh: Succeeded his father in 1803 and ruled until 1813.
  • The Gurkha Invasion: In 1805, the Gurkhas invaded the hill states, and Dhami came under their control. The state remained under Gurkha occupation from 1805 to 1815.

4. The British Era & Independent Sanad

  • Rana Goverdhan Singh (1813–1867): Succeeded Pritam Singh. Actively helped the British during the Anglo-Gurkha war.
    • The Sanad: Upon the expulsion of the Gurkhas (when Goverdhan was 20), he was granted an independent Sanad.
    • Tribute Adjustments: The Sanad initially required the supply of 40 begaris, which was later commuted to an annual cash payment of Rs. 720/-. In 1858, this was halved to Rs. 360/- for his lifetime as a reward for his loyal behavior during the 1857 revolt.
  • Rana Fateh Singh (1867–1894): Conferred to succession in 1870. In 1888, the state’s tribute was once again reduced to Rs. 360/- for his lifetime.
  • Rana Hira Singh (1894–1920): He obtained a remission of half the tribute of the state in 1901 and was conferred the C.I.E. in 1913.

5. Rana Dalip Singh Bahadur (1920–1948)

  • Education & Early Rule: Born in 1908, educated at Bishop Cotton School Shimla and Aitchison Chief’s College Lahore. During his minority, the state was administered by a council.
  • Liquor Prohibition (1930): He imposed a complete prohibition on liquor in his state in 1930. This was likely the only instance in pre-independent India where a princely state enforced a complete ban on liquor in the Himalayan belt.
  • The Firing Tragedy: It was during his tenure that the Praja Mandal movement reached its peak, leading to the infamous Dhami firing tragedy.
  • British Relations: The Rana was not entitled to a formal visit to the Viceroy but had the privilege of an informal interview once during the Viceroy’s term.

6. Integration and Present Status

  • Merger: On 15th April 1948, Dhami was merged into Himachal Pradesh.
  • Administrative Shift: It initially became part of the Kasumpati tehsil in the Mahasu district.
  • Current Status: At present, Dhami holds the status of a Sub-tehsil and is part of the Kasumpati assembly seat within the Shimla district.

7. Current Royal Lineage

  • Rana Pratap Singh: Born in 1933, he became the Tikka of Dhami after the death of his unmarried elder brother, Tikka Samsher Singh, in 1977.
  • Current Holdings: Rana Pratap Singh remains the current owner of the Dhami Jagir and the ancestral Palace at Halog.

Here are your complete, final revision notes on the history of Jubbal State, compiled chronologically from its foundation to its merger with Himachal Pradesh. All key facts, names, dates, and locations are bolded for high-yield memorization.

JUBBAL STATE: COMPLETE REVISION NOTES

1. Geographical Profile & Economy

  • Location: Situated to the East of Shimla, lying between Sirmaur and Rampur Bushahr.
  • Environment & Agriculture: The chief products were rice , grain, tobacco, apple, and opium.

2. Ancestry & Origin Legends

  • Lineage: The rulers belonged to the Rathore clan of Chandravamshi Rajputs, with their ancestors originally ruling the Sirmaur state.
  • The Founder: Founded by ‘Karan Chand’, the eldest son of Raja Ugar Chand (whose capital, Sirmauri Tal, was destroyed by floods).
  • The Three Brothers: Karan Chand founded Jubbal, his brother ‘Mool Chand’ ruled over the Sari area, and ‘Duni Chand’ acquired Rawingarh.
  • Alternative Legend: A Sirmauri Raja gifted one of his wives to a renowned Brahmin; her three sons in the Brahmin’s house founded ‘Jubbal’, ‘Rawingarh’, and ‘Sairi’.

3. Early Capital Shifts & Expansions

  • Early Status: Originally a tributary of Sirmaur.
  • Capitals: Karam Chand established the initial capital at ‘SONEPUR’, later moving it to Purana Jubbal. His successor, Amar Chand, subdued rebellious Thakurs and expanded the state.
  • Rana Bhag Chand (5th Ruler): Expanded the state, leading to a conflict with the Garhwal Raja. He was imprisoned in Garhwal, escaped, and triggered an attack by the Sirmauri army, which resulted in the capture and death of his successor, Narain Chand.
  • Shifting to Deorha: After a period of subjugation and revolt under Roop Chand and Tek Chand, the ruler Gohar Chand (Gir Chand) finally shifted the capital from Purana Jubbal to ‘DEORHA’ (present-day Jubbal).

4. The Gurkha Invasion & British Treaties

  • Rana Hukam Chand: Fought battles against Bushahr, Garhwal, and Sirmaur.
  • Gurkha Era (Rana Puran Chand): Jubbal was separated from Sirmaur during the Gurkha occupation. In 1815, Rana Puran Chand was granted an independent Sanad by the British. His wazir, ‘Dangi’, was a famous warrior.
  • Sanad Terms: Initially required the maintenance of 70 begaris, later commuted to an annual tribute of Rs. 2,520/-.
  • Abdication: Puran Chand misgoverned and abdicated in favor of the British in 1832 for an allowance of Rs. 4,400/- per annum. The state remained under British control until his son, Karam Chand (ruled 1853–1877), came of age.

5. Late 19th Century Rulers & Subordinates

  • Padam Chand (1877–1898): Born in 1862. Formed marital alliances with Delath, Dehra Gopipur, Rawingarh, and Sairi. He had 11 sons and 5 daughters.
  • Subordinate Thakurais (1896): The Thakurais of ‘RAWINGARH’ and ‘DHADI’ were declared subordinate to Jubbal. They each paid an annual tribute of one musk pod, but Jubbal did not interfere with their internal administration.
  • Gyan Chand (1898–1910): Educated at Aitchison College. His death in 1910 without children triggered a major succession dispute.

6. The 1910 Succession Dispute

  • The mother of Raj Kumar Durga Singh filed a case in the High Court of Calcutta, claiming the throne for her son because he was the full brother of Gyan Chand.
  • The British Government ruled in favor of the older half-brother, Bhagat Chand, establishing that all legal wives were of equal rank and the throne passes to the eldest son regardless of full/step status.

7. Raja Bhagat Chand (1910–1946): The Golden Era

  • Titles & Recognition: Conferred the hereditary title of Raja in 1918. Awarded the C.S.I. (1928) and K.C.S.I. (1936).
  • Modernization: Under his 36-year rule, Jubbal became one of the first princely kingdoms to get electricity with a hydroelectric plant in 1924.
  • Public Welfare: He made Education and Medical Services free, established an Endowment Trust Fund, built a college in Shimla, and abolished small taxes during his 1935 Silver Jubilee.
  • Infrastructure: Built Forest Rest Houses in Chopal and Deorah. He left behind an efficient, modern state with sound finances when he abdicated in 1946.

8. Digvijay Chand (1946–1948) & Final Integration

  • The Last Chief: Educated at Aitchison College, he served as the last Raja before integration. He later became an Honorary A.D.C. to President Dr. Rajendra Prasad (1957–1960) and held the rank of Major.
  • State Forces: At this time, the state maintained a small force of 45 Armed police.
  • Merger: On 15th April 1948, Jubbal became part of Himachal Pradesh.
  • Present Status: It currently holds the status of a tehsil within district Shimla.

9. Architecture Spotlight: The Palace at Deorha

  • Situated on a tributary of the river Pabbar.
  • Built in a partially Chinese style.
  • The lower portion was masonry, while the upper half was ringed with wooden galleries capped by overhanging eaves.
  • It is famous for the enormous masses of deodar timber used in its construction.

Here are your complete, final revision notes on the history of Sangari State, compiled from the provided sources.

SANGARI STATE: COMPLETE REVISION NOTES

1. Geographical Profile

  • Setting: Located on the South bank of the Satluj, above Kotgarh and near Kumharsain.
  • Area: 40 square kilometers.

2. Historical Origins

  • Early Ownership: The territory originally belonged to Bushahr.
  • Kullu Conquest: Conquered by Raja Man Singh of Kullu during the first half of the 18th century.
  • Gurkha Occupation (1803–1815): Seized by the Gurkhas in 1803; the Kullu Raja paid tribute to the Gurkhas for this area until 1815.
  • Restoration: Restored by the British to Bikram Singh in 1815.

3. Separation from Kullu & British Management

  • Succession Issues: After Ajit Singh died in 1841, his uncle Jagar Singh was appointed Thakur of Sangari.
  • Incorporation: At this time, Sangari was separated from Kullu and incorporated into the Shimla Hill States.
  • Management: The state remained under British management from 1841 until Jagar Singh’s death in 1876.

4. The Reign of Rai Mian Hira Singh (1876–1927)

  • Accession: Succeeded on 30th September 1876.
  • Titles: Granted the hereditary title of Rai by the British in 1887.
  • Administration: Exercised administrative powers under the control of the Superintendent of the Shimla Hill States with an annual income of Rs. 2,000/- and no levied tribute.
  • Succession: Died on 15th March 1927 and was succeeded by his son, Rai Raghuvir Singh.

5. Later Rulers & Integration

  • Rai Mian Raghubir Singh (1927–1962):
    • Served as Rai from 1927 to 1962.
    • He was officially the last Raja of Sangari.
    • In 1948, Sangari became part of the Mahasu district of Himachal Pradesh.
  • Rai Mian Digvijay Singh (1962–1990):
    • Son of Mian Shyam Singh, he served as Rai from 1962 to 1990.
    • Upon the death of Raghubir Singh, he was declared the head of the Sangari Thakurai as the senior-most male family member.

GHUND STATE: MICRO NOTES

  • Foundation: Fief of Keonthal State founded by Jan Jaan Singh in the 17th century.
  • Geography: Area of 28 square miles (nearly 46 sq. km.).
  • Administration: Chief had full powers; however, death sentences required approval from the Superintendent of Shimla Hill States.
  • Key Figures: Thakur Ranjeet Singh succeeded Thakur Kishan Singh in 1907, having received administrative powers in 1901.
  • Political Events: During the Praja Mandal movement, the Thakur prohibited the entry of Praja mandalists into his territory.
  • Integration: Merged into the Mahasu district of Himachal Pradesh on April 15, 1948.

MADHAN STATE: MICRO NOTES

  • Origin & Foundation:
    • Madhan, Ghund, and Theog share a common origin.
    • A Chandel Rajput of Jaipur, while on a pilgrimage to Badrinath, settled in Garhwal and later moved to Kahlur around A.D. 1667.
    • His three sons, Jais Chand, Jajan Singh, and Bhup Singh, founded Theog, Ghund, and Madhan states, respectively.
  • Geography:
    • Madhan was a fief of Keonthal.
    • It was located between 31° 6′ and 31° 12′ North and 77° 21′ and 77° 26′ East.
    • The state had an area of 9 square miles (nearly 15 sq. km.).
    • It comprised half a dozen small villages between Phagu and Matiana, north of the Shimla-Kotgarh road.
  • Administration & History:
    • The Thakurs of Madhan paid a tribute of Rs. 250/- to the Keonthal state.
    • Originally under the control of Kumharsain, Madhan was annexed by the Gurkhas in 1810.
    • In 1815, the British government placed Madhan under the control of the Keonthal state.
    • After Vishan Chand’s death in 1905, his minor son Randhir Chand succeeded him, and the state was administered by a council.
    • The council exercised full powers, though death sentences required confirmation from the Superintendent of Shimla Hill States.

Here are the notes on Theog, based on Screenshot 2026-06-04 10.42.24 AM.png:

THEOG STATE: MICRO NOTES

  • Foundation & Geography
    • Theog was a fief of the Keonthal state.
    • It was located between 30° 4′ and 31° 9′ North and 77° 21′ and 77° 31′ East.
    • It was founded by Jayas Chand in the 17th century.
  • Administration & History
    • Like other Thakurais, Theog was under Gurkha possession from 1810 to 1815.
    • In 1815, after the Gurkhas fled, it was placed under the control of the Keonthal state.
    • The Keonthal Raja had no power of interference as long as the Thakur was not in arrears with his tribute.
    • The Thakur exercised full criminal and civil jurisdiction, but capital sentences required confirmation from the Superintendent of Shimla Hill States.
  • Key Rulers
    • Thakur Bhup Singh (great-grandfather of Padam Chand) was removed in 1856 for misconduct, and his son Hari Chand was appointed in his place.
    • Thakur Hari Chand married the daughter of the Rana of Balsan and died in 1893.
    • He was succeeded by his son Thakur Shamsher Chand, who died in 1909.
    • Padam Chand succeeded his father Shamsher Chand in 1909, and was followed by his son Karan Chand and grandson Krishan Chand.
  • Integration
    • On April 15, 1948, when Himachal Pradesh was formed, Theog state was formed into a tehsil of the Mahasu district.
    • At present, it is a tehsil of the Shimla district.

KOTKHAI THAKURAI: MICRO NOTES

  • Foundation: Founded by Ahimal Sing, a scion of the Kumharsain state.
  • Early History: Due to its small size, it faced constant threats from Bushahr, Kumharsain, and Kullu states. It was held by Kullu for ten years and later annexed by Bushahr for nearly 40 years, likely until the Gurkha invasion.
  • Gurkha Period: Kotkhai and Kotgarth remained under Gurkha possession. The Rana of Kotkhai paid an annual tribute of Rs. 6,000 to the Gurkhas.
  • British Era: After the Gurkhas were expelled, the British returned Kotkhai to Rana Ranjit Singh while retaining Kotgarth.
  • Rana Ranjit Singh & Bhagwan Singh: Rana Ranjit Singh was a cruel ruler in constant confrontation with the British. He died in 1821 and was succeeded by Bhagwan Singh, who shared similar negative qualities.
  • Annexation: In 1826, following rising tensions between the Rana and the public, the British government annexed Kotkhai, making it part of British India.
  • Present Status: Kotkhai is currently a tehsil within the Shimla district.

KARANGLA

  • Foundation: Founded by Sansar Chand, a scion of the Kumharsain state.
  • History & Integration: Due to its small size, it functioned as a fief of Bushahr. Following the Gurkha invasion, it was finally merged into the Bushahr state and is now part of Himachal Pradesh.

SAIRIE

  • Foundation: Founded in the 12th century by Mool Chand, the second son of Ugra Chand, the last ruler of Sirmaur.
  • Geography: Located on the right bank of the river Pabbar.
  • Historical Context:
    • Bushahr repeatedly attacked and controlled Sairie whenever it found an opportunity.
    • Rohru was also under the Sairie Thakurais.
  • Rulers & Administration:
    • The last ruler was likely Puran Singh, who died fighting against the Gurkhas without leaving an heir.
    • Following his death, the Rani assumed administrative control.
    • After the Rani’s death in 1864, the British government handed Sairie over to Bushahr as Nazarana.
  • Present Status: It is currently a part of the Shimla district.

KEONTHAL STATE: COMPREHENSIVE NOTES

1. Geographical & Administrative Profile

  • Area: Covered 260 sq km.
  • Significance: Occupied the sixth position among the Shimla Hill States.
  • Boundaries: Surrounded by Theog, Balson, and Sirmaur (East); Patiala, Koti, and Shimla (West); and Patiala, Koti, and Madhan (North).

2. Origins & Foundation

  • Dynasty: Founders of Keonthal belonged to the common Sen dynasty of Bengal, which also founded Suket, Mandi, and Kishtwar.
  • Founder: Founded around 1211 A.D. by Giri Sen (or Tomar Sen), the younger brother of Bir Sen (founder of Suket).
  • Origin Story: Giri Sen, Bir Sen, and Hamir Sen fled to the hills after their father, Rup Sen, died in an encounter with Mohammdans at Ropar in 1210 A.D..

3. Historical Eras & Political Shifts

  • Medieval: In 1379, during Feroz Shah Tughlaq’s attack on Punjab Hill States, Keonthal and Sirmaur were temporarily controlled.
  • Pre-Gurkha (1800 A.D.): Keonthal was the overlord of 18 petty Thakurais: Koti, Ghund, Theog, Madhan, Mehlog, Kuthar, Kunihar, Dhami, Tharoch, Sangari, Kumharsain, Rajana, Khaneti, Maili, Khalsi, Baghari, Deeghyali, and Ghat.
  • Gurkha Invasion (1809–1814): Rana Raghunath Sen fled to Suket, where he died. In 1814, the state was restored to his infant son, Sansar Sen.
  • British Era:
    • 1814: Eight parganas were ceded to the government for Nepal war expenses and later sold to Patiala for Rs. 2,80,000/-.
    • 1815 Sanad: Keonthal was given authority over Theog, Koti, Ghund, and Kiari (Madhan).
    • 1830: Land exchange occurred to form the Shimla station; Rawingarh territory was conferred for this purpose.
    • 1857 Mutiny: The Rana provided shelter to fleeing Europeans, resulting in his title being raised to ‘Raja’ and a ‘Khilat’ of Rs. 1000/-.

4. Rulers & Succession

  • Raja Sansar Sen (1831–1862): 72nd Raja. Born in Suket, he was granted the hereditary title of ‘Raja’ in 1858.
  • Raja Mahendra Sen (1862–1882): 73rd Raja. Successfully paid off inherited debts; had six sons and two daughters.
  • Raja Balbir Sen (1882–1901): 74th Raja. His reign faced internal disorder, leading to the appointment of a British government manager in 1889.
  • Raja Hemendra Sen (1916–1940): Succeeded in 1916. Awarded C.S.I. in 1936. Invested with full powers in 1926. ‘Nazarana’ levies were abolished during his tenure in 1911.
  • Raja Hitendra Sen (1940–1948): The final ruler of Keonthal.

5. Subordinate & External Relations

  • Subordinates: The petty states of Koti, Theog, Madhan, Ghund, and Ratesh were subordinate to Keonthal, paying small annual tributes while remaining practically independent.
  • Conflicts: Folktales relate Keonthal’s conflicts with Sirmaur (Defeat of Moia/Deshu) and Kahlur (Madna, c. 1680).

Leave a Comment