Shekhawat is a prominent sub-clan of the Kachhwaha Rajputs, primarily found in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan.[1] The clan traces its lineage to Maharao Shekha, a notable 15th-century Rajput ruler from whom both the clan and the region derive their names.[2]
The Shekhawat Rajputs trace their lineage to Rao Shekha, a prominent Rajput ruler, from the 15th century. He was a descendant of Rao Kalyan Singh, who belonged to the Kacchawaha clan of Kingdom of Jaipur.
Rao Shekha established his own principality in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, which includes parts of present-day Jhunjhunu, Sikar, and Churu districts. His leadership helped consolidate Rajput power in this region. Over time, the Shekhawat Rajputs expanded their territories and established several forts and palaces. The Shekhawat Rajputs established their dominance in the Shekhawati region in the 15th century, specifically starting around the time of Shekha Rao's rise to prominence in the early 1400s. They played a significant role in regional politics and were known for their martial prowess and resistance against Mughal expansion. Their rule continued until the mid-20th century when the princely states were integrated into the Indian Union. Thus, the Shekhawat Rajputs governed the Shekhawati region for approximately 500 years, from the early 15th century until the 1940s and 1950s, when princely states were absorbed into independent India. Shekhawat is a very common surname in the Indian defence forces.[3][pageneeded]
Branches
Bhojraj Ji Ka, Girdhar Ji Ka, Jagmal Ji Ka, Achaldas Ji Ka, Rao Ji Ka, Ladkhani, Bhairo ji Ka, Taknet, Ratnawat, Khejroliya, Milakpuriya, Tejsi Ka, Jagmalji Ka, Sahasmalji Ka, Lunkaranji Ka, Ugarsenji Ka, Sanwanldasji Ka, Gopalji Ka, Chandapota, Parsuramji Ka, Tajkhani, Hariramji Ka etc.[3][need quotation to verify]
Major Thakur Dalpat Singh, Commander of Jodhpur Lancers of the British Indian Army, also known as the "Hero of Haifa" for his actions in the Battle of Haifa during the first World War.[4]
Piru Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India's highest military decoration 3245.[5][6][7]
↑ Rima Hooja. A History Of Rajasthan. p.696. He followed up his campaign against the Mewatis into Kachchwaha-held lands and attacked Amarsar. Amarsar was then held by Raimal of the Shekhawat sub-branch of the Kachchwahas
↑ Rima Hooja. A History Of Rajasthan. p.582. Thus, from Shekha, one of the descendants of the clan, who established his control over the region still called Shekhawati, originated the Shekhawat sub-branch.
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