Bassi

Origin and Lineage

The rulers of Bassi Thikana belong to the illustrious Mertia clan of the Rathore dynasty. This lineage traces its roots back to Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, through his grandson Rao Duda, who established the Mertia branch. The Thikana of Balunda was one of the prominent seats of these Mertia Rathores in the Marwar region. Thakur Kishan Singh, who held the estate of Kadel, was the son of Rao Chanda of Balunda. His descendants established themselves at Bassi, carving out a distinct identity while maintaining strong ties to the parent state of Marwar.

The Mughal Era and Consolidation

The year 1681, when Thakur Dwarkadas ji was granted the Bassi jagir, was a tumultuous period in Rajputana's history. This was the era of the Rathore-Mughal War (1679–1707), triggered by Emperor Aurangzeb's attempt to annex Marwar after the death of Maharaja Jaswant Singh I. During this period of political realignment, Thakur Dwarkadas's consolidation of his estate by securing 12 villages (jagirs) through a payment of forty thousand (likely in local currency or silver coins as Peshkash or tribute) demonstrated both diplomatic acumen and financial resourcefulness. This strategic acquisition ensured the stability and defense of the thikana during a time of widespread conflict in the region.

British Period and Administration

During the 19^th century, with the signing of the treaty of alliance between the Princely State of Jodhpur and the British East India Company in 1818, Bassi, as a feudatory of Marwar, entered a period of relative peace. The thikana contributed to the state forces and paid annual tributes (such as Rekh and Hukumnama) to the Jodhpur Darbar. The Thakur of Bassi held administrative and judicial powers within his territory, maintaining law and order, collecting land revenue, and fostering local agriculture and trade.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, the Princely State of Jodhpur merged into the United State of Rajasthan. Under the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act of 1952, the feudal system was abolished, and the administrative powers of the Thikana of Bassi were transferred to the democratic government. Today, the descendants of the Bassi royal family preserve their rich ancestral heritage, historic weaponry, and traditional customs, actively participating in the cultural preservation of the region.