The Kachhwaha (also spelled as Kachwaha and Kachhawaha) is a Rajputclan found primarily in India. Some families within the caste did rule a number of kingdoms and princely states, such as Jaipur, Alwar, Talcher and Maihar.
Contents
- Etymology
- Origin
- History
- Notable people
- References
- Further reading
Etymology
According to Cynthia Talbot, the meaning of word Kachhwaha is tortoise.
Origin
There are many theories on the origin of the Kachhwahas. Kachwaha claim descent from Kusha, a son of the avatar of Vishnu, Rama, as expressed by them citing historical documents during the Supreme court of India proceedings on Ram Mandir at Ayodhya. Another view-point is that the Kachhawahas claim descent from Vishnu’s turtle avatar.
According to Rima Hooja, the Kachhwaha word became popular in the late 16th century during the reign of Raja Man Singh. There are many inscriptions and manuscripts which prove this theory, like the ones found in Balvan, Chatsu, Sanganer and Rewasa.
History
Kachhwaha established their kingdom in Dhundhar region of modern Rajasthan in 11th century. One Kachhwaha King Dulha Rai conquered most of the dhundhar area from Bargurjars. His descendant Raja Pajvan helped Prithviraj Chauhan on his conquest. Kachhwaha King Prithviraj fought along with Rana Sanga at battle of Khanwa.
Notable people
- Pajawan
- Rao Shekha
- Bharmal
- Bhagwant Das
- Man Singh I
- Jai Singh I
- Ram Singh I
- Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II
- Maharaj Sawai Madho Singh I
- Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh
- Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II
- Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh
