Referred to as the ranging Rajkot, colourful Rajkot, a city is a place that boasts a history that is unmatched and unheard of.
However, Gujrat’s Saurashtra region’s sprawling and bustling city is not the most sought-after location when people think of a holiday destination.
However, the rich history and the variety of places at Rajkot make it a must-visit place in India.
One can take a walk through historical museums, take a close look at Gandhi’s childhood, scroll through the literary treats, explore the scenic dams and lakes, enjoy delicious foods and book the best hotels in Rajkot city to make their time in the city a memorable one. Herein, we dive into the history of Rajkot and the significance it holds.
4 Things To Know About Rajkot Historical Place
#1. The Inception
Rajkot was founded back in 1620 by Thakur Sahib Vibhoji, who was part of the Rajput Jadeja clan.
Thakorji ruled over a staggering 282 square miles large area spread across 64 villages. Located at the banks of the Aji River, the city was formerly the capital of the princely state of Saurashtra and was the seat of the erstwhile clan of Jadeja.
In 1720, Thakorji was defeated by the deputy subedar of the Sorath regiment named Masum Khan, which prompted the city’s name to be changed to Masumabad.
However, the Rajput Jadeja clan didn’t stay put as the son of the former defeated ruler, Meramanji, who took the helm of the throne after defeating Masum. The name of the city was thus reverted to Rajkot again.
From its inception to 1807, Rajkot was predominantly ruled by either the Jadeja or the Mughals before the British came into the picture.
#2. The British Invasion
The British took over the city of Rajkot back in 1807 and subsequently made it the capital of the then Saurashtra state.
In 1822, British governance led to the establishment of an agency named the Kathiawad. The Kothi area of the present-day Rajkot, which now houses the railway offices and the customs, held house to the British officials who were part of that agency.
The city used to be the headquarters for the British government during their two-century long rule over India.
However, during this period, the city saw various developments in art, education, and culture and held a key place in India’s freedom struggle. The place still has various massive structures and institutions built during colonial rule.
#3. The Gandhi Influence
Rajkot was Mahatma Gandhi’s childhood. He spent his early years down in the busy neighbourhood gullies of the city.
Gandhi visited back into the city back in 1925 to lead India during the freedom struggle. Today, the city has various schools and places named after Gandhi.
The Alfred High School, where Gandhi had 7 years of his initial education, is now a museum and has a history that stretches back to 164 years. Rajkot was also a major contributor during the start of the Quit India Movement.
#4. The Present Scenario
Today, Rajkot is an integral centre of commerce and industries. Herein, the manufacturing of cotton and woollen textiles is a major activity.
Aside from this, it also produces ceramics, water pumps, and diesel engines. It is extremely famous for its richness in silver, furniture manufacturing, and textiles.
It is a major hub for weaving in India and even has a national weaving institute. The city is often not deemed a major tourist attraction. However, the hospitality and other amenities make it a place worth visiting.
One can visit the city to explore the rich history, experience tradition and culture, and cherish the contributions of our forgotten freedom legends.
Additionally, you can book cheap hotels in Rajkot and further blossom your experience in the city. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities globally and is rapidly developing in all sectors.
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