Bambora

Origin and Foundation

The Thikana of Bambora (also spelled Bamora) was a prominent third-class estate, historically designated as a Gol (Tazimi) Thikana of the princely state of Udaipur (Mewar). The estate was founded by Rawat Samant Singh, who was the son of Rawat Kandhalji II of Salumber. Belonging to the illustrious Chundawat clan of the Sisodia Rajput dynasty, the rulers of Bambora traced their lineage back to Chunda Sisodia, the eldest son of Maharana Lakha of Mewar, who famously renounced his claim to the throne of Mewar in the 15^th century in favor of his younger brother, Mokal.

The Chundawat Legacy and Military Service

As descendants of Rawat Chunda, the Chundawats held the premier position among the nobles of Mewar. The Rawat of Salumber served as the lead noble of the state, and cadet branches like Bambora were granted strategic territories to defend the borders of Mewar. The rulers of Bambora, styled as "Rawat", played a crucial role in the military campaigns of the Maharanas of Udaipur, providing feudal levies during times of conflict with neighboring states and external powers, including the Mughals and the Marathas.

To understand the deeper feudal structure of the Mewar state and the role of its nobility, historians often refer to classic works such as James Tod's Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, which documents the administrative division of Mewar estates.

The Fort of Bambora

The architectural centerpiece of the estate is the historic Bambora Fort, constructed on a hillock overlooking the surrounding plains. Built originally in the 18^th century, the fort served as both a military stronghold and the residential palace of the Rawat and his family. The fort features robust fortifications, traditional Rajasthani balconies (jharokhas), and cenotaphs (chhatris) dedicated to the ancestors of the ruling family.

British Period and Colonial Relations

During the British Raj, following the treaty of 1818 between Mewar and the British East India Company, the internal administration of estates like Bambora remained largely in the hands of the local thakurs, under the overall suzerainty of the Maharana of Udaipur and the British Political Agent. The Bambora thikana maintained its traditional judicial and revenue-collecting powers within its jurisdiction, contributing to the stability of the region.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947 and the subsequent integration of Rajasthan into the Indian Union, the princely privileges and feudal jagirs were abolished under the Zamindari Abolition Act. The estate of Bambora was integrated into the Udaipur district of Rajasthan.

In the late 20^th century, the historic Bambora Fort underwent extensive restoration. It was converted into a heritage hotel, famously known as Karni Fort, Bambora, preserving the rich architectural heritage and offering visitors a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of Mewar's nobility. Today, Bambora stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Chundawat Sisodias of Mewar.