Baria

Origin and Foundation of Baria State

The history of Baria State is intimately linked with the illustrious Khichi Chauhan clan of Rajputs, who trace their lineage back to the legendary Emperor Prithviraj Chauhan of Delhi. Following the fall of Delhi, the Khichi Chauhans established their stronghold at Ranthambore, and later migrated southwards to establish the kingdom of Champaner near Pavagadh in modern-day Gujarat.

The immediate ancestor of the ruling family of Baria was Rawal Patai (also known as Jaysinh Deva), the last Chauhan King of Champaner. In 1484, Champaner was besieged and captured by Mahmud Begada, the Sultan of Gujarat. Following the fall of Champaner, the royal family sought refuge in the deep forests and rugged hills of eastern Gujarat. Rawal Patai’s son, Rawal Raisinghji, succeeded in maintaining the family's independence in these wild highlands. Rawal Raisinghji had two sons: the elder son succeeded to the principality of Chhota-Udaipur, while the younger son, Raja Dungarsinghji, moved north-eastward and laid the foundation of the state of Baria (Devgadh Baria) around 1524.

Raja Dungarsinghji chose the strategic valley surrounded by the scenic Devgadh hills as his capital, constructing a fort that would safeguard his clan from external invasions. Under his leadership, the territory was consolidated, and the local Bhil chieftains were pacified and integrated into the state’s administration, forming a resilient frontier principality.

Mughal and Maratha Periods

Due to its highly rugged and forested terrain, Baria largely retained its internal sovereignty during the height of the Mughal Empire. While they acknowledged nominal Mughal suzerainty when pressed, the rulers of Baria paid little to no regular tribute and maintained a highly independent stance. The state commanded the vital trade routes and passes connecting the fertile plains of Gujarat with the high plateau of Malwa, giving it immense strategic leverage.

During the 18^th century, as the Mughal power waned, the Maratha confederacy expanded into Gujarat. Baria faced severe pressure from the Maratha Peshwas, the Gaekwads of Baroda, and the Scindias of Gwalior. The Marathas frequently levied chauth (tribute) on the state, leading to frequent skirmishes. Despite these continuous incursions, the rulers of Baria valiantly defended their borders and preserved their independence, resisting complete subjugation by the Maratha forces.

British Alliance and Modernization

The entry of the British East India Company into Gujarat politics permanently altered the region's dynamics. In 1803, during the Second Anglo-Maratha War, the British under General Wellesley came into contact with Baria while operating against Daulat Rao Scindia. The Raja of Baria, recognizing a powerful ally against Maratha encroachment, assisted the British forces by protecting the mountain passes and ensuring safe passage for British troops.

Consequently, in 1803, the British entered into a treaty of alliance with Baria. Under British protection, the tribute previously demanded by the Marathas was regulated. Baria was recognized as a Second Class State within the Rewa Kantha Agency of the Bombay Presidency. In 1893, the state was officially permitted to maintain a disciplined military force consisting of 38 cavalry, 250 infantry, and 3 artillery guns.

The late 19^th and early 20^th centuries marked a golden era of reform and development in Baria, particularly during the reign of Maharawal Ranjitsinhji (who ruled from 1908 to 1948). A highly educated and forward-thinking ruler, Maharawal Ranjitsinhji transformed Devgadh Baria into a modern, model state. He introduced free primary education, established modern hospitals, constructed extensive waterworks, laid down the Baria State Railway, and abolished many oppressive feudal taxes. His administration was so efficient that the town of Devgadh Baria earned the moniker "The Paris of Gujarat" due to its planned avenues, elegant public gardens, and magnificent neo-classical palaces like the Rajmahal.

Heraldry, Emblem, and State Flag

The coat of arms of Baria State reflects its martial heritage and its geographical position. The heraldic description of the state’s arms is as follows:

• Arms: Or, a basilisk (dragon/serpent) vert, on a chief azure a sword argent hilted or. The basilisk symbolizes the local guardian deity and the wilderness of the Devgadh hills, while the sword represents the Rajput right to rule by conquest and valor.
• Crest: A demi-lion rampant proper holding in its paws the state flag.
• Supporters: Two tigers proper, representing the dense forests of Baria which were famous for their wildlife.
• Motto: "Asya Sahayasri Bhairavah" (Under the protection of Lord Bhairava).

The State Flag of Baria was a rectangular flag featuring five horizontal stripes of different colors (a traditional Panchranga flag popular among Rajput states), with saffron (kesariya) holding the place of honor, symbolizing sacrifice, purity, and courage.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, the last ruler of Baria, Maharawal Jaideepsinhji, signed the Instrument of Accession to the Dominion of India on August 15, 1947. In 1948, Baria was officially merged into the Bombay Province, which was later reorganized in 1960, making Baria a part of the newly formed state of Gujarat.

Maharawal Jaideepsinhji transitioned successfully into democratic India. He became a prominent politician, serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of Gujarat and as a Member of Parliament (MP). He was also an acclaimed international polo player. Today, Devgadh Baria is a municipality in the Dahod district of Gujarat. The heritage of the royal family is preserved by their descendants, and the grand architectural monuments of the princely state remain major cultural and historical landmarks of Gujarat.

References and Historical Sources

• Detailed historical account of Baria State in the Imperial Gazetteer of India (Volume 6).
• Genealogy and historical sketches of the ruling family in The Golden Book of India by Sir Roper Lethbridge.
• Administrative records and military contributions in Ruling Princes and Chiefs of India.