History of Rajasthan

Archaeological excavations in the State have established a connection with the Harappan culture that dates back to 1000 BC. Historical traditions reveal that Jats, Rajputs, Bhils, Ahirs, Gujars, Meenas and some other tribes had a great contribution in building the state of Rajasthan. It is believed that these tribes faced a lot of difficulties to protect their culture and their land. The relic of Virat also speaks of the area being inhabited by the Pre-Aryan people of the oldest called Push Karara Nanya. The Rajputs resisted the Muslim incursions, although a number of Rajput kingdoms eventually became subservient to the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire during those empires' peak of expansion.  

Mewar led others in resistance toward Muslim rule; Rana Sanga was known to have organized the Battle of Khanua against Babur and Maharana Pratap against Akbar in Haldighati. Internal rivalry between the Rajput kingdoms led to the formation of many smaller yet stronger Rajput kingdoms. It was at this point in time that the Mughal rule declined and gave way to the Marathas. The Marathas were later subdued by the British. 

Jats and Rajputs are the major ethnic groups in the state. After independence the state of Rajasthan was given a formal status in 1956. The former independent kingdoms of this state have left behind a rich architectural and cultural heritage.