Ambliara

Origin and Foundation of Ambliara Province

The state of Ambliara (also historically spelled as Ambaliara) was a princely state located in the Mahi Kantha Agency of the Bombay Presidency during the British Raj. Today, its territories form a part of the Aravalli and Sabarkantha districts in the state of Gujarat, India. The rulers of Ambliara belonged to the Khichi clan of the Chauhan dynasty of Rajputs, claiming prestigious lineage from the imperial Chauhans of Ajmer and Delhi, specifically descending from the famous ruler Prithviraj Chauhan.

Following the fall of the Chauhan empires in northern India and subsequent migrations, a branch of the family carved out principalities in Malwa and Gujarat. The founders of Ambliara settled in the rugged, forested terrains of the Mahi Kantha region during the late medieval period. The formal establishment of the state is historically associated with the local chieftains who consolidated power by subjugating local tribes and securing recognition from the regional sovereigns of Gujarat. According to historical accounts, the family established their seat at Ambliara in the late 17^th century, securing their territories through military prowess and strategic matrimonial alliances.

Mughal and Maratha Periods

During the zenith of the Mughal Empire, the rulers of Ambliara maintained a semi-independent status, paying nominal tribute to the Mughal Subahdars of Gujarat. The rugged terrain of the Mahi Kantha hills provided a natural defense, allowing the Thakurs of Ambliara to retain significant autonomy over their internal administration.

With the decline of Mughal authority in the 18^th century, the Maratha Empire, led by the Peshwas and subsequently the Gaekwads of Baroda, expanded into Gujarat. Ambliara, like many neighboring principalities in Mahi Kantha, faced frequent incursions by Maratha forces demanding Mulkgiri (tribute-collecting expeditions). Under pressure, the state was forced to agree to pay annual tribute, known as Ghasdana, to the Gaekwad of Baroda. Despite these exactions, the Chauhan Thakurs retained their administrative rights and defended their borders against rival local chieftains.

The British Period and Administrative Reforms

In the early 19^th century, following the British victory in the Maratha Wars, the British East India Company assumed political control over Gujarat. In 1812, the British negotiated a settlement between the Gaekwad of Baroda and the local chiefs of Mahi Kantha. Under this settlement, brokered by Major Ballantine, the British guaranteed the payment of tribute to Baroda, effectively taking Ambliara under their political protection.

Ambliara was classified as a "Third Class" state within the Mahi Kantha Agency. The rulers exercised judicial powers, which included limited civil and criminal jurisdiction. Key rulers of this era made significant efforts to transition the state from a feudal estate into a modern administrative unit:

• Thakur Jhalamsinghji: Ruled during the late 19^th century, maintaining stable relations with the British Political Agent and working towards settling boundary disputes with neighboring states like Idar and Lunawada.
• Thakur Keshrisinghji Jhalamsinghji (b. 1887 - d. 1941): Succeeded to the gaddi in 1908. He was an educated and progressive ruler who introduced several administrative reforms, modernized the land revenue system, established local schools, and improved healthcare facilities in the state capital.
• Thakur Sardarsinghji Keshrisinghji: The last formal ruler of Ambliara, who guided the state through the tumultuous years of the Second World War and the transition to Indian independence.

Heraldry and State Flag

The heraldry of Ambliara reflected its rich Chauhan heritage. The state coat of arms featured a shield adorned with Rajput martial symbols, often depicting a falcon or a Rajput warrior, symbolizing vigilance and bravery. The shield was typically flanked by supporters, such as lions or horses, representing sovereignty and strength. The state motto, inscribed on a scroll below the shield, emphasized loyalty, duty, and protection of the subjects.

The state flag of Ambliara was a traditional rectangular flag, predominantly featuring the sacred colors of the Rajputs—saffron (Kesariya) and red. Saffron symbolized sacrifice, courage, and spirituality, which are central tenets of the Chauhan clan's historical ethos.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence from British rule in August 1947, the last ruler of Ambliara, Thakur Sardarsinghji, signed the Instrument of Accession, merging the state into the Dominion of India. On June 10, 1948, Ambliara was formally integrated into the Bombay State under the integration scheme of the native states of Mahi Kantha.

In 1960, following the linguistic reorganization of states, Ambliara became a part of the newly formed state of Gujarat. The royal family of Ambliara continues to reside in the region, participating in local cultural, social, and political initiatives. The historical heritage of the state is still preserved in the local architecture, folklore, and the enduring respect for the Chauhan legacy in northern Gujarat.

References and Historical Sources

• Detailed administrative records can be found in the Gazetteer of the Bombay Presidency: Cutch, Pálanpur, and Mahi Kántha (1880).
• For details on the state's status and rulers, see The Golden Book of India by Sir Roper Lethbridge.
• Historical context of the Mahi Kantha Agency is documented in the Imperial Gazetteer of India.