The Rajputs occasionally united against foreign invaders

The Rajputs occasionally united against foreign invaders – once under Bappa Rawal, then under Shakti Kumar of Mewar and Jaypal Tomar. Once the foreign invasions stopped, the Rajputs fought each other in the eleventh and twelfth centuries.
Major wars broke out between the Tomars of Delhi and Gahadvalas of Kannauj. The Rathores, as the Gahadvala dynasty, established the kingdom of Kannauj, capturing it from Tomar rulers in the 11th century. The Rever dynasty established the kingdom of Tarangadh in 11th through the 12th century, and conquered Marwar in the 13th century. The Chandelas established Jejakbhukti and ruled from Mahoba.

Rajput kingdoms contended with the rising and expansionist empires of Central Asia

Rajput kingdoms contended with the rising and expansionist empires of Central Asia, be they Arabs, Moghuls, Mongols, Afghans, or other Turkic people. They earned their reputation by fighting battles with a code of chivalrous conduct rooted in their strong adherence to tradition and Hindu dharma. The Rajput kingdoms held out against the Arab Caliphates and other Central Asian Empires for several centuries. A few Rajput kings converted to Islam, and eventually an alliance formed with the Moghuls, which laid the foundations for the creation of the largest pre-colonial era empire in South Asia. hi this sultan 1) With a view for helping orphans, Children, Widows, Women and Men having low financial condition and below poverty line and such others.
2) For promoting of hospital facilities in every urgent medical cases in assistance with government help and facilities.
3) For performing the marriages of orphan Children and Girls below poverty line.
4) For providing the expenses of funerals in all respects by committee work and such other means.
5) For providing facilities to the children below poverty line in all type of educational Institution whether Government or Private.
6) For providing facilities to the “Minority communities” in the respect of rehabilitation and with a view of helping to the women suffering due to divorce.
7) For Rehabilitation of “Minority communities” below poverty line.
8) With a view for resolving the minor disputes caused or arisen in the family in all the types of family relations.
9) With a view for providing financial help, legal assistance and the medical assistance in the accident cases caused to the victims.
10) With a view for helping all the persons who affects due to natural calamities such as heavy rains, floods, earth quack and such other situations.
11) With a view for helping the girls of “Minority communities” who suffers due to bad elements or Raudisms in the society.

Rajputs at the rise of the Mughals

Soon after his defeat in 1527 at The Battle of Khanwa, Rana Sanga died in 1528. Bahadur Shah of Gujarat became a powerful Sultan. He captured Raiseen in 1532 and defeated Mewar in 1533. He helped Tatar Khan to capture Bayana, which was under Mughal occupation. Humayun sent Hindal and Askari to fight Tatar Khan. At the battle of Mandrail in 1534, Tatar Khan was defeated and killed. Puranmal, the Raja of Amber, helped the Mughals in this battle. He was killed in this battle. Now it became necessary for Humayun to crush the rising power of Bahadur Shah. While Bahadur Shah was besieging the fort of Chittorgarh, Humayun started against him. Hearing the news, the Rani Karmawati, widow of Rana Sanga, sent rakhi (passion flowers) to Hymayun. Humayun is considered to have accepted the rakhi, but stopped at Sarang Pur in January 1535. Mewar was weakened due to constant struggles. After a long wait, the Rajputs had a last fight on 8 March 1535, and Rani Karmawati, together with other women, committed Jauhar (mass suicide) the same day. Humayun now pursued Bahadur Shah. Later Bahadur Shah and Sher Shah Suri created many problems for Humayun, and he lost the empire. He regained the empire in July 1555, and died in January 1556. Akbar, the son of Humayun, tried to persuade Mewar to accept Mughal sovereignty, like other Rajputs, but Rana Udai Singh refused. Ultimately Akbar besieged the fort of Chittor in 1567. This time, Rana Udai Singh left the fort with his family. Jaimal Rathore of Merta and Fatah Singh of Kelwa were left to take care of the fort. On 23 February 1568, Akbar hit Jaimal Rathore, who was looking after the repair work, with his gun. That same night, the Rajput women committed jauhar (ritual suicide) and the Rajput men, led by the wounded Jaimal and Fatah Singh, fought their last battle. Akbar entered the fort, and at least 30,000 people were killed. Later Akbar placed a statue of these two Rajput warriors on the gates of Agra Fort.

RAJPUT PERSONALITIES राजपूतों की सूची

Maharana Pratap, a Sixteenth century Rajput ruler and great warrior of his time. Mughal emperor Akbar sent many missions against him; however, he survived and fought to his last breath. He ultimately gained control of all areas of Mewar, excluding the fort of Chittor.
राजपूत भारतीय उपमहाद्वीप भारत, पाकिस्तान, बांग्लादेश और नेपाल की बहुत ही प्रभावशाली जाति है, जो शासन और सत्ता के करीब मानी जाती है. राजपूत सबसे युद्ध कुशल जाति मानी जाती है. अपनी युद्ध कुशल प्रवृति और शासन क्षमता के कारण राजपूतों ने काफी ख्याति पाई. देश के स्वतंत्रता के समय करीब छह सौ राज्यों में से चार सौ पर राजपूतों का शासन था. यहां भारत और पाकिस्तान के राजपूतों की एक आंशिक सूची दी जा रही है.

अनुक्रम

१ ऐतिहासक
२ Modern
२.१ National politics
२.२ State politics
२.३ Military
२.४ Defence
२.५ Sports
२.६ Art, Culture, Cinema, Law & Fashion
३ =संदर्भ
ऐतिहासक

Vikramaditya A legendry and wise king of Ujjain of Paramara dynasty in 102 BCE to 15 CE
Bhoja A King and philosopher of Central India in Medieval times.
Harsha Vardhan A Rajput King of Vardhan dynasty who ruled Northern India for fifty seven years between 590 CE-657 CE.
Raja Pajawan or Pajjun (King of Amber. Brother in law and general of Prithviraj Chauhan)
Raja Bhagwant Das (King of Amber Rajasthan. Won Kashmir and western parts for Moughals)
Raja Man Singh I of Amber (King of Amber, Rajasthan. General of Akbar extended boundaries of India from Afghanistan to Assam and far south)
Mirza Raja Jai Singh I (King of Amber. Great warrior and statesman. He was responsible for Shivaji's surrender)
Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (Founder and Maharaja(King) of Jaipur)
Jayapala, the Hindushahi ruler of Northwest India, Pakistan and Eastern Afghanistan.
Bappa Rawal, First Gehlot king at Chitrakut(Chittor), Defeated Muslim Invaders from Iran. Followed his Parmar Uncle to throne of Chittor.
Prithviraj Chauhan(King of Ajmer at the age of 13 and last Hindu king of Delhi)
Rana Kumbha, Glorious ruler at Chittor in 15th century, built many palaces, never lost a battle.
Rana Udai Singh II (Founder of Udaipur)
Maharana Pratap,one of the great warriors of Rajputana, Last and only Hindu Ruler to defy mughals. Titled - Chattis Rajkul Shringar, Hinduva Suraj Hindupati for his bravery and for being the last torch bearer of Hinduism.
राव शेखा, King of Amarsar, The Shekhawat sub-clan of Kachwaha Clan of Jaipur is named after him. one of the great warriors of Rajputana.
Rawal Jaisal Singh
Dulla Bhatti
Rana Hamir-Ruler of Mewar, Saviour of Gehlot Sisodia clan.
Banda Bahadur
Bhai Bachittar Singh
Sangat Singh Minhas
Ram Singh- In army of Banda Bahadur
Mira Bai(Famous devotee and poet)
Rana Sanga-Ruler of mewar and regarded as greatest warrior of India.
Rawal Ratan Singh-Husband of Rani Padimini, Sisodiya ruler of Chittor (13 a.d.)
राव जोधा (founded city of Jodhpur)
Raja अमर सिंह राठोर
Veer वीर दुर्गादास राथौड
Maharaja Jaswant Singh (King of Jodhpur)
Rao Maldeo Rathore-Ruler of marwar 15 A.D
Rao Bika (Founded Bikaner city)
Maharaja Ganga Singh (First to bring canals in the desert)
Baba Ramdevji a Tanwar Rajput and local deity of Rajasthan.
Gogaji a Chauhan Rajput and Local deity of Rajasthan.
Pabuji Rathore (Local deity of Rajasthan)
Guru Jambhoji Panwar (Founder of Bishnoi Sect. Main temple at Mukam Rajasthan.)
Veer Kunwar Singh - Hero of 1857 revolts against British imperialists.
Raja Badan Singh Bhadauria- Valiant Ruler From Bhadawar.
Raja Gopal Singh Bhadauria- King From Bhadawar During Mughal Era.
Ram Prasad Bismil-Hero of Kakori Rail kand and Freedom Fighter, was a Tawar rajput.
Ram Singh Pathania- Hero of Revolts against British, Tomar Rajput.
Modern

National politics
Vishwanath Pratap Singh-The 10th Prime Minister of India. Former Finance Minister of India, also Served as Chief Minister Of Uttar Pradesh.
Chandra Shekhar - The 11th Prime Minister of India. Led Samajwadi Janata Party (Rashtriya)
Bhairon Singh Shekhawat - Former Vice President of India. Also served Three times Chief Minister Of Rajasthan from BJP party.
Bhakt Darshan(Singh Rawat)Former Union Minister Govt. of India. He is one of the few Indian politicians to have been the Minister for Defence, Finance and External Affairs.
Jaswant Singh - Leader of opposition, Rajya Sabha& Former Finance Minister of India
Arjun Singh - Senior Congress Leader. Minister for Human Resource and Development . Served 2 Times as chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh.
Anugrah Narayan Sinha - Eminent Freedom Fighter
Karan Singh - Congress Leader & First Governor of Jammu & kashmir
Maharani Gayatri Devi Won the constituency in the Lok Sabha in 1962 , 1967,1971.
Rajnath Singh - President of BJP. Also served as Chief minister of Uttar Pradesh.
Thakur Rajveer Singh-former member of parliament(Aonla, U.P.)
Digvijay Singh Former Chief Minister under Madhya Pradesh. He is the general secretary of the Samajwadi Party and a member of the Rajya Sabha.
State politics
Anand Mohan Singh-B.P.P-Bihar
Digvijay Singh - Congress Leader Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh
Satyendra Narayan Sinha - Congress Leader & Former Chief Minister of Bihar
Raman Singh - Chief Minister of chhattisgarh from BJP party. He has been chief minister since December 7, 2003. Won State elections for the second time.
Digvijay Singh-former rail miniser state and won from Bihar.
Amar Singh-politicion of U.P.
Virbhadra Singh - Former Chief Minister of Himachal pradesh from Indian national Congress.
Deep Narayan Singh - Former Chief Minister of Bihar
Maharaja Karni Singh- Rajasthan Leader[१]
Shankersinh Vaghela- Former chief minister of Gujrat and Honable textile minister India.
Mohar Singh Rathore - Rajasthan
Tan Singh - Rajasthan
Harish Rawat - PCC Chief, Uttarakhand
Dharam Singh- Former Chief Minister of Karnataka
Bhagat Singh Koshiyari-Former Chief Minister-Uttrakhand
Shivraj Singh - Chief Minister, Madhya Pradesh.
Dilip Singh Judeo - He was the Indian Minister of State for Environment and Forests.
Madhav Singh Solanki - Former Chief Minister of Gujrat.
Shankersinh Vaghela - Former Chief Minister of Gujrat , Current Union Minister or Textile.
Nareshchandra Singh - Former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh from Indian National Congress.
Kalikesh Singh Deo - Member of Parliament from Saintala Assembly Constituency.
Kalyan Singh Kalvi - He was cabinet minister in government of India in 1991 with portfolio of energy Military
CHM Piru Singh Shekhawat. Awarded Param Veer Chakra posthumously for gallantry of highest order, during the 1947 Indo-Pakistani war.
Major Shaitan Singh Bhati. Awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest gallantry award posthumously during the 1962 Indo-China war.[२]
Capt Gurbachan Singh Salaria. Awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest gallantry award posthumously.
Thakur Sher Singh Parmara[३]
Brigadier Ransher Singh Ranawat. Awarded the Kirti Chakra and Sena Medal for separate events during the 1971 India-East Pakistan/Bangladesh war.[४]
Defence
Sagat Singh - Rajasthan
Karni Singh Rathore - K.C.
thakur bhimsinghji sodha 1965 spesial ofisar of indian aarmy

Sports
Rajyashree Kumari- Ace Shooter[५]
Dhyan "Chand" Singh - Hockey player
R. P. Singh - Cricketer
Deepak Thakur - Hockey Player
Chetan Chauhan - Cricketer
Parimarjan Negi - Chess Grandmaster
Devesh Chauhan - Hockey Player
Lokendra singh - Indian Polo Team Captain
Vivek Singh - Hockey player
Mahendra Singh Dhoni - India cricket team captain
Vikram Solanki - Cricketer
Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore - Olympic Silver Medalist
Rajesh Chauhan - Cricketer
Roop Singh - Hockey player
Vishal Singh - Polo Player
Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji - Test cricketer
Raj Singh Dungarpur - Former President of BCCI
Kumar Shri Duleepsinhji - Test Cricketer
Jaspal Rana - Shooter
Hanumant Singh - Test cricketer
Ajay Jadeja - Cricketer and Commetator
Ravindra Jadeja - Cricketer playing for the Rajasthan Royals in Indian Premier League
Art, Culture, Cinema, Law & Fashion
चंद्रचूढ़ सिंह - Actor
दिवाकर पुंडीर - Model
हर्ष राजपूर - Actor
राजीव सिंह - Model
प्रीति ज़िंटा - Actress
सोनल चौहान - Miss India
सुनिधि चौहान - Singer
कंगना राणावत - Actress
मोहित चौहान - Singer(Silk Route Lead Vocallist)लक्ष्मी कुमारी चंदावत - An author and a politician of Rajasthan..

DEFINITION OF RAJPUTS

Rajputs (Rajaputra) are a sub-group of hindu Kshatriya varna. They have a hindu Jati (an endogamous group within the Hindu social system). Rajputs are literally sons-of-kings. They are divided into 36 major clans, names of which are recorded in several texts including the Kumarpala Charita of Jayasimha, and Prithviraj Raso of Chandbardai.

The Rig Veda is the first and most important of the four Vedas and rajput rishis (rajrishi) are mentioned in it. To each of its hymns the name of the seer or Rishi to whom it was revealed is prefixed. It thus becomes evident on the authority of these very names (such as Vasishta, Viswamitra, Agastya, etc.), all of which belong to men born in various manvantaras, that centuries, and perhaps millenniums, must have elapsed between the dates of their composition. The Gayatri, the most sacred hymn of the Rig Veda, is taken from the third of the ten cycles of hymns, the cycle of the Rajaputra Sage Viswamitra.

राजपुत्रौ कुशलिनौ भ्रातरौ रामलक्ष्मणौ ।
सर्वशाखामर्गेन्द्रेण सुग्रीवेणािभपालितौ ।।

MEANING OF SURYAVANSHI

"Suryavanshi" or Suryavamsa' or 'Sooryavamsham' or 'Sooryavamsam' ' means a person belonging to this dynasty. This clan was the oldest and biggestKshatriya/Chattari clan of India which was also known by many synonyms as Adityavamsha (आदित्यवंश), Mitrawamsha (मित्रवंश), Arkawamsha (अर्कवंश), Raviwamsha (रविवंश), etc. The early Suryavanshis considered Sun-god ('Surya', 'Aditya' or 'Arka') as their kul-devta (clan God) and mainly practised sun-worship.The capital of Solar race was ancient Ayodhya.The clan founder, Vivasvan or Vaivaswat Manu, also known as Arka-tanaya (अर्क तनय) or son of Arka (Surya), is supposed to have lived coeval with the origin of the world. The name Vivaswan literally means master of the rays. That is, The Sun or Sun God. The first historically important king of this dynasty was Vivaswan's grandson Ikshvaku, so the dynasty is also known as theIkshvaku dynasty.^[1]
The last important king of Ayodhya was Brihdbal, who was killed by Abhimanyu in the Kurukshetra war. The last ruling king of the dynasty at Ayodhya was Sumitra in the 4th century BC, who, after being forced out of Ayodhya by emperor Mahapadma Nanda of Magadha's Nanda Dynasty, continued the royal line at Rohtas.
The Nairs of Kerala- like Nambiars, Menons,Pillai,Panikkar etc are the Sooryavamsham Kshathriyas. Most of the Gurjars (or Gujjars) believe themselves to have descended from Suryavanshi Kshatriyas (Sun Dynasty).^[2] Historically, the Gurjars were Sun-worshipers and are described as devoted to the feet of the Sun-god (God Surya). The copper-plate grants of Gurjars bear an emblem of the Sun and on their seals too, this symbol is depicted.^[3] Also, the Gurjar title of honor is Mihirwhich means Sun.^[4][5]

As laid down by Manu, the kings of the Solar dynasty followed the rule of primogeniture. Only the eldest male offspring of the king could succeed to the throne, unless disqualified by the priests for being physically disabled or some other reason. The younger sons also produced many prominent historical Kshatriyas andVaishyas, but these are not included in the following list of monarchs. The list, however, does include some rightful heirs who were disqualified by the priests.

Poetry from Bhutiyal Rajputs

(Parvati at her lattice)
O Love! were you a basil-wreath to twine
among my tresses,
A jewelled clasp of shining gold to bind around my sleeve,
O Love! were you the keora’s soul that haunts
my silken raiment,
A bright, vermilion tassel in the girdles that I weave;

O Love! were you the scented fan
that lies upon my pillow,
A sandal lute, or silver lamp that burns before my shrine,
Why should I fear the jealous dawn
that spreads with cruel laughter,
Sad veils of separation between your face and mine?

Haste, O wild-bee hours, to the gardens of the sun set!
Fly, wild-parrot day, to the orchards of the west!
Come, O tender night, with your sweet,
consoling darkness,
And bring me my Beloved to the shelter of my breast!

(Amar Singh in the saddle)
O Love! were you the hooded hawk upon my hand
that flutters,
Its collar-band of gleaming bells atinkle as I ride,
O Love! were you a turban-spray or
floating heron-feather,
The radiant, swift, unconquered sword
that swingeth at my side;

O Love! were you a shield against the
arrows of my foemen,
An amulet of jade against the perils of the way,
How should the drum-beats of the dawn
divide me from your bosom,
Or the union of the midnight be ended with the day?

Haste, O wild-deer hours, to the meadows of the sunset!
Fly, wild stallion day, to the pastures of the west!
Come, O tranquil night, with your soft,
consenting darkness,
And bear me to the fragrance of my Beloved’s breast!

BHATYAL RAJPUTS IN THE PAST

jamwal is a bhatyal  It has been mentioned in the Rajgaan-e-Jamwal that Raja Puran Karan of Jammu had two sons namely Dya Karan and Dharma Karan. As mentioned in the Tarikh-e-Kashmir “ Rajtarangni” they happened to exist in 24^th year of ‘Kalyug’ (4978    years had passed now). There was an era of disturbance and fighting between different castes among the ‘Sardars’ (clan heads) in villages in the Kashmir region when Maharaja Puran Karan happened to be the King of Jammu region. The people had a very tough time and were slaved for work in their farmlands by those ‘Sardars’. No remuneration was paid to the poor public for their hard work. Only two times meals were served in lieu of work. The people compelled by such pitable circumstances reached in Maharaja’s Durbar at Jammu and desired his interference to save the poor public in Kashmir from exploitation by such ‘Sardars’. After hearing their plight Maharaja felt a lot and sent his eldest son Raja Dya Karan along with a heavy contingent of best army fighters to control the situation. After the operation defeat by Raja Dya Karan the public in Kashmir heaved a sigh of relief from innumerable troubles at the hands of ‘Sardars’. The Raja’s army crushed them heavily. Raja Dya Karan feeling the hospitability of the local public as well the scenic beauty of Kashmir thought of making the Rainawari in Srinagar city as his capital and he did so. Thus started an era of peace and progress for his public. The younger son of Maharaja Puran Karan viz., Raja Dharnm Karan became the king of Jammu region. From this they had their different Rajput clans in Kashmir and Jammu onwards although rooting from the Jamwal clan. At that time Kashnir State was very vast which spread upto Chitral, Gilgit, Skurdu and up to Koh Hindukush. To trace the Shajra let us find the roots of Maharaja  Dya Karan…….. it goes that Maharaja Kush’s 30^th descedant was Birhadbal who was killed by Abhimanyu(son of Arjun) in Mahabharat. Now 30th descendant Birhadbal Maharaja Sometra ruled the country. Maharaja Dya Karan was 99^th descendant of Mahara Sometar

TEMPLES OF BHATYAL RAJPUTS IN KIRMCHI MANSAR

Ancient Temples of Krimchi BHATYAL RAJPUTS

The art of the Jammu area, as elsewhere in India, has from the beginning been dedicated to religious ends and the craftsmen remained anonymous as their aim was only to serve their faiths. The Hindu temples were designed to suggest the appearance of the cosmos or the heavens of the gods. Similarly, the goal of the plast

ic arts was not realism; the Hindu gods, made according to the strict laws of proportion and form, must be thought of as symbols or hieroglyphs of real bodies. All suggestion of organic anatomy is suppressed; it is the abstract perfection of the form that is calculated to inspire devotion. "When observing any temple of Jammu we have to keep these points in view".

The Dogras are a marvellous race, an ancient race whose roots go back to the pre-Vedic times, as is proved by the excavations made at Ambran and the works of Hindu religion and Sanskrit literature. If excavations are carried at Babor and Krimchi, the ancient civilization of the Dogras will clearly come to light. At the moment, it is not possible to trace the continuous style of Jammu's development of architectural style and form, as the cruel hands of man and nature have destroyed many temples and buildings. But landmarks still exist which point out the path of Jammu's temple architecture.

TEMPLE COMPLEX AT KRIMCHI
The most impressive temples are the groups of ancient temples at Babor and Krimchi. The Babor temple complex, was built in the 11th century A.D.These temples, to some extent, resemble Modhera temple built in 1026 A.D The Krimchi temples that we are concerned at present marks the high water mark in architecture and artistic achievement of Jammu.

At 40 kms. away from the Jammu city and six miles the north of Udhampur town at the bottom of the range of Ladha hills is spread the area of Bhuti Krimchi. The Raja who laid the foundations of the city of Krimchi is known as Kreechak.

Krimchi temples indicate great Dogra architectural evolution. From the springboard of Babor the architect makes a high jump in artistic achievement at Krimchi, a village 40 kms away from the Jammu city. Against the backdrop of magnificent hills on a sloping and smiling valley is an enchanting sight of four ancient and splendid temples. Nearby, down a gorge flows a sparkling stream. The temples are lantern-shaped.

The peasants' houses, was a place of considerable importance; the ruins on the banks of the nalla Devak indicate that at one time it was a capital which contained many temples and was a prosperous habitation. On a high rock there are signs of an old fort. Its falling walls are still seen and inside the four walls is a plain ground where there lie spread all around ruins of the palaces of the Rajas of Bhuti.

It is said that Rajas of Bhatyal are connected with Raja Daya Karan, king of Kashmir, who had gone there on the behest of his father Raja Puran Karan, who was the ruler of Jammu. In fact, the Kashmiris had approached Raja Puran Karan to invade Kashmir and rescue them from the cruelties of the then ruling king of Kashmir. Raja Daya Karan conquered Kashmir and became its ruler. A descendent from this ruler. Raja Som Dutt, came from Kashmir to the illaqa of Bathal and founded an independent kingdom of Bhuti with its capital at Krimchi. He is considered to be the founder of the Bhatyal Rajputs. It is, however, in 1834 that this state was annexed to Jammu by Maharaja Gulab Singh. The last Raja of Bhuti was Raja Himmat Singh whose exquisitely accomplished grand-daughter was later married to Raja Amar Singh. The name of the Rani's father was Pratap Singh.



We have to take cognizance of this historical background, for it is said that Raja Som Dutt built the fort and the palaces at Krimchi. It is further believed that Raja Som Dutt, in all probability, must also have built the marvellous temple complex at Krimchi.

Against the background of the magnificent hills on a sloping and smiling valley is an enchanting sight of the four ancient and splendid temples. Nearby down the gorge flows a sparkling stream. The temples are lantern-shaped buildings with a large lotus-like disc at the top of each. There is one better preserved temple which is the gem of the Dogra architecture. Although the temple is dilapidated and the decay of centuries has furrowed its brow and wrought wrinkles on its glistening surface, yet it could not efface its pristine beauty and solemn grandeur. It certainly marks an advance in the art of composition over that of the Babor complex.

The height of the principal temple is about 50 ft. and before it there is 31 ft. space area which is reached by a flight of several steps. The porch in front is 10 ft. wide with an entrance of 6 ft. height and 4 ft. wide. The front is of splendid craftsmanship. What is unique about it is that it is copiously decorated with abstract designs in kaleidoscopic forms which produce an optical illusion so that one feels that it is soaring higher and higher. One experiences vertigo. There is something vibrant, pulsating in these carvings that instinctly attracts the eyes and keeps them riveted there. One feels a sense of intense movement when eyes follow the numerous meandering intricate lines that weave complex and enchanting patterns. The eyes revolve in myriad directions and the temple looks as if it is dancing. Each motif of the carvings has been done on more than one stone and then fitted in the over-all structure of the temple displaying perfect harmony and rhythm.

Much of the sculpture has been lost but the remaining few are sufficient to rouse one's imagination to see more there than actually exists there. The local people assert that a colonnade existed round the temple complex—numerous bases of pillars and several fragments of fluted columns were lying about. Now there are imposing sculptures like an ornate head of Lord Shiva and Vara Avtara, carrying the earth on his shoulders and trampling to death the sea demon by his feet. These masterpieces of sculpture reflect the maturity of the artists, for these, made from the white stones found in abundance in the nearby stream, are indeed refined and filled with a pulsating vitality. These statues at Krimchi are the reflections of the loving piety of the sculptors. Some other pieces recovered from the debris are the figures of Ganesha and Vishnu.





The chief peculiarities of these ruins are the number of temples that contained within the same, what might have been, an enclosing wall and the absence of a symmetry in their arrangement. It may, I think, thus be argued that in earlier times, when the enclosing wall was but a mere means of protection, a number of detached temples were erected and dedicated to various deities from time to time. These temples at Krimchi were dedicated not to one particular god or deity but to the contained images of Kali, Siva and Vishnu, etc.

There are various opinions about the construction of these temples made of only stone and no cement or mortar of any kind has been used. The one is that these were constructed, as already mentioned, by Raja Som Dutt, who might have got artisans from Kashmir which excelled in the construction of temples. May be Som Dutt or any Bathial Raja constructed the temples but it is quite fantastic to think that any Kashmiri artisan was employed in building these temples. The style of the temples in Kashmir is absolutely different from that of the temples at Krimchi. There was not a single temple in Kashmir which could resemble Krimchi temples. Most of the temples in Kashmir do bear resemblance with those of Bengal. In both Kashmir and Bengal the primary form was the square block mounted by a pyramidal roof. The mode of elaborating the plan remains the same in both the places and consists in the addition of one or more protections to each of the original four sides of the square. Moreover, it is believed that the architecture of Kashmir had been influenced by those of Greece Bactrians. The temples of Krimchi bear no such influence and show at a glance that these are of the same style as those of Orissa. These temples at Krimchi are so strong that they have escaped destruction by nature and invaders on account of their remote situation.

There is another belief that Kanishka, while passing through this place, was captivated by the natural beauty of the place and that he ordered the construction of the temple complex. But these temples do not seem to have been constructed in the 1st century when Kanishka ruled. The reign of Kanishka was the great period of Gandhara art and we do not witness any influence of this art on the Krimchi temples. Besides, the Kushan king being a Buddhist could not have been interested in building the temples dedicated to Hindu gods.

The people of Krimchi assert that the temples were built by Pandus, who happened to wander here from Babor where they ruled. But again the style of the temples would have been the same as those of the temples found at Babor. The Krimchi temples indicated great Dogra architectural evolution and artistic achievement at Krimchi.

Thus Krimchi temples date back to 8-11th century and decidedly they must have been built by Bathial Rajas who ruled over the area for generations together. It is not a far-fetched idea that the Dogra artisans were highly skilled in architectural and sculptural arts.

There is no doubt that the most impressive, ancient and grandest temple in Jammu is the principal temple dedicated to Kali, at Krimchi. It is in a better state of preservation than the adjacent ones. It contains two distinct chambers, one is called "Ardha-mandapa" and the other "Garbha griha". The latter chamber appears to have been richly ornamented, as seen from the niches. It is not difficult to realise that the statues seem to have been stolen.

There is a remarkable dearth of early dated example as to what was the prototype and what were the stages of evolution which resulted in such magnificent products of the builder's art as the temples at Babor and Krimchi. But it seems reasonable to presume that earlier example existed and that art progressed step by step upto a certain point from the simple to the more elaborate. Many of the beautiful temples remain buried and much excavations at Krimchi and other areas or in Jammu are called for.

HISTORY OF BHATYAL RAJPUTS

Bhatyal Khandaan(Clan) is a branch of Suraj Vansh and their “Gotar” resembles with that of Jamwal Clan. It is told that clan father of Bhutyal Rajputs established “Krimchi” town which is 6-miles away from Udhampur towards north and is situated on left side of “ Ladha Daar”. Now this town seems to be in ruins. Still there remain 3-4 temples on piedmont that shows some evidence of once populated town. One big temple contains few daities, which are about 2 ft. down the surrounding land. This shows that the temple surroundings have been dumped under Mulba. This temple is across Devak and the Krimchi fort on the otherside of the Nallah. Bhatyal Rajputs built this fort that is situated at a high ground but now only bare walls are standing. Inside this fort lie ruins of house of the erstwhile Bhatyal families across vast grassy land. These temples were built by “ Keechaks” who had come from Kashmir (Ref: Raj Tarangni History). These “Keechaks” also known by various other names as “ Hushak”, “Jushak”and “Kanishak” kings, came to this place during 1856 Bikram Samvat. Some historians dub these “Keechaks” as belonging to “ Tatars” but this is the same “Kanishak” who was also known as “ Keechak” by the local people and they all were three real brothers. Some believe that “ Keechaks” might have descended from Raja Diya Karan (Refer to Mahabharta Era) who were once settled in Rainawari (Kashmir). The other branch of Diya Karan descendants is Bahu Rajputs.

Raja Som Paat was the first Bhatyal Raja who came from Kashmir and settled in Bhattal. He established his power seat in Bhuti (Krimchi) and so his descendants called Bhutyal after him. Raja Som Paat was succeeded by Pasrech, Diya Dhata, Hann Dhatta, Baje Pal, Sabi Pawar, Asthan Pawar, Dil Paan Sut, Ujjain or Janian, Baluchan, Trilochan, Tahir Pushat, Barpast, Nakharmanur who ruled this Bhuti State.

Tahir had four sons-----Nand, Owari, Lowari and Neelsi. From Owari descended Bhagal Rajputs and from Lowari descended Rayan Dang Bhattal wala Rajputs.

The eldest son Nand became the Raja of Bhuti (Krimchi). He had Dheeth, Sri, Jeet, Nibh as his successors to the throne. From Nibh descended three sons named Ambar Singh, Hasan Si and Pukar Si. The descendants of Hasan Si settled in Kansaal and that of Pukar Si at Kotlehar in Bhuti (Krimchi). Raja Avtaar Singh was succeded by Neel Singh who was succeeded by Jopan and Qatar Singh in turn. Raja Qatar Singh had four sons----- Takhat Singh, Raghu, Bishamber and Babu. The descendants of Raghu settled in Hamira., Bishamber’s at Sarup and that of Babu at Kotla in Udhampur tehsil. Pahar Singh who had two sons named Udhay Singh and Bhagat Singh succeeded Raja Takhat Singh. Prince Bhagat Singh established a village Bhangara after his name and his descendants settled there. His son Daan Singh who had two sons named Maan Singh and Amar Singh succeeded Raja Udhay Singh. Prince Amar Singh’s descendants settled in Kambhli. Raja Maan Singh had six sons---- Chhatter Singh, Prem Singh, Anchal Singh, Sahib Singh, Balwaan Singh and Ganga Singh. Raja Chhater Singh succeeded the throne of Bhuti State and the other five brothers took to ploughing their lands and with the passage of time mixed in other khandaans (clans). Balwaan Singh established a village named Bali and his descedants became famous as Bali Rajputs. Raja Chatter Singh had two sons Abhey Singh and Himmat singh. The descendants of Himmat Singh settled in Mansar that was once established by Prince Maan Singh. Raja Abhey Singh was succeeded by Raja Bhunpal Singh who had also two sons---- Bahadur singh and Laab Singh. Raja Bahadur Singh was a cotemporary of Maharaja Ranjeet Dev of Jammu. Raja Bahadur Singh was succeeded by his son Raja Jai Singh whose sister was married to Raja Bhupinder Pal of Basohli (Kalyan Pal was born to her). Raja Jai Singh was allotted a Jagir of Malhori after his extradition from the Bhuti State, which Maharaja Ranjeet Singh gifted as Jagir to Maharaja Gulab Singh.

Himmat Singh had one son Pratap Singh who in turn had three sons---Kanwal Singh, Rattan Singh and Shamsher Singh and a daughter who was married to Raja Sir Amar Singh (Brother of Maharaja Pratap Singh) of Jammu. Rani Bhatyal gave birth to most handsome, intellectual and brave Maharaja Hari Singh. The descendants of Kanwal Singh settled in Malhori and 2nd Sukh ram is settled in Gai Dessa(now in Doda Distt.). by vijinder singh bhatyal