Arnod

Origin and Foundation of Arnod Jagir

The Jagir of Arnod was established as a prominent estate under the princely state of Pratapgarh (historically known as Partabgarh). It was granted as an appanage (maintenance jagir) to Kunwar Lal Singh Ranawat, a younger son of Maharawat Salim Singhji, who ruled Pratapgarh from 1756 to 1774 CE. The rulers of this estate belonged to the Sisodia clan of Rajputs, specifically the Ranawat sub-clan, tracing their direct descent from the royal house of Mewar (Udaipur).

The Royal Lineage and Mewar Connection

The history of Arnod is intricately linked with the ruling family of Pratapgarh. The state of Pratapgarh itself was founded in the 16^th century by Maharawat Bikaji, a descendant of Rana Khem Karan, who was the younger brother of Rana Kumbha of Mewar. This shared lineage established the rulers of Arnod as high-ranking nobles (Thakurs) within the feudal hierarchy of the region, carrying the prestigious Sisodia name.

Maharawat Salim Singhji, the father of Kunwar Lal Singh, was a notable ruler who introduced the famous Salim Shahi silver currency. After his reign, while the eldest son succeeded to the gaddi of Pratapgarh, Kunwar Lal Singh was granted the fertile territory of Arnod to maintain his royal state and establish a cadet branch of the family. More about this lineage can be explored on the historical records of the Pratapgarh Princely State.

Feudal Administration and the British Period

During the late 18^th and early 19^th centuries, Rajputana faced severe instabilities due to Maratha incursions. In 1818, Pratapgarh State entered into a treaty of subsidiary alliance with the British East India Company. As a premier vassal estate of Pratapgarh, the Jagir of Arnod enjoyed internal autonomy. The Thakurs of Arnod were responsible for maintaining local law and order, administering justice, and collecting land revenue within their jurisdiction.

The estate of Arnod was strategically important due to its proximity to the borders of Malwa. The Jagirdars of Arnod built several fortresses, temples, and stepwells to safeguard the region and support local agriculture. They remained loyal allies to the Maharawat of Pratapgarh and actively participated in the state's military and administrative councils.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, the princely state of Pratapgarh, along with the Jagir of Arnod, acceded to the Dominion of India. In 1948, Pratapgarh integrated into the United State of Rajasthan, which later became the modern state of Rajasthan.

With the passage of the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act, 1952, the feudal privileges and land-revenue collection rights of the Jagirdars of Arnod were formally abolished. Today, Arnod is a bustling town and serves as a major tehsil headquarters within the Pratapgarh district of Rajasthan, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical temples, including the famous Gautameshwar Mahadev temple located nearby.