Dewas Senior

The Origin and Foundation of Dewas Senior

The princely state of Dewas Senior was founded in the early 18^th century by the Puar (Pawar) dynasty of Marathas. The Puars of Dewas claim descent from the illustrious Paramara dynasty of Malwa, which boasted legendary rulers like Raja Vikramaditya and Raja Bhoja. Following the decline of the Paramara dynasty, a branch of the family migrated to the Deccan, settling near Pune and Satara, where they adopted the Marathi language and customs, becoming prominent military commanders under the Maratha Empire.

In the early 1700s, during the expansion of the Maratha confederacy under Peshwa Baji Rao I, two brothers, Kaloji Rao Puar's sons—Tukoji Rao I and Jivaji Rao I—distinguished themselves in military campaigns across Central India. In recognition of their services, they were granted the territory of Dewas in 1728. The brothers established a unique dual state, dividing the territory between them. The elder brother, Tukoji Rao I, founded the Dewas Senior Branch (Dewas Senior), while the younger brother, Jivaji Rao I, established the Dewas Junior Branch. Although they shared the same capital town of Dewas, lived in adjacent palaces, and ruled over intertwined territories, they maintained separate administrations, treasuries, and British political relationships.

The Maratha Expansion and the Mughal Era

During the mid-18^th century, Dewas Senior played an active role in the Maratha expansion into Malwa and northern India. The Puars of Dewas Senior were loyal allies of the Peshwa and cooperated closely with other Maratha houses, such as the Scindias of Gwalior, the Holkars of Indore, and their cousins, the Puars of Dhar. The state successfully withstood the tumultuous transitions of power in Central India, balancing their sovereignty against the declining Mughal Empire and the rising influence of regional powers.

The British Period and Treaty of 1818

By the turn of the 19^th century, Central India was ravaged by the Pindari raids and the conflicts of the Anglo-Maratha Wars. The stability of Dewas Senior was severely threatened. To secure his state, Maharaja Tukoji Rao II entered into a treaty of subsidiary alliance with the British East India Company on December 12, 1818. This treaty placed Dewas Senior under British protection, guaranteeing its internal sovereignty in exchange for British suzerainty and the stationing of a political agent.

The state was classified as a treaty state and was eventually placed under the Malwa Agency of the Central India Agency. The ruler of Dewas Senior was granted a permanent salute of 15 guns. Under British protection, the administrative boundaries of the state were stabilized, and the region slowly recovered from decades of economic devastation.

Key Reformers and Progressive Rule

Dewas Senior is highly regarded in Indian history for its progressive rulers who introduced major social, educational, and administrative reforms. Among them, two rulers stand out:

Maharaja Krishnaji Rao II "Baba Sahib" (r. 1860–1899)

Maharaja Krishnaji Rao II was a highly capable administrator who modernized the state's judicial and revenue systems. He established modern schools, built infrastructure, and encouraged trade and agriculture within the state, laying the foundation for modern civic administration.

Maharaja Tukoji Rao III "Chhatrapati Maharaj" (r. 1899–1937)

One of the most remarkable and intellectual rulers of modern India, Maharaja Tukoji Rao III was a visionary reformer. He was a great patron of arts, literature, and education. He initiated free primary education, set up cooperative banks, and established representative local bodies.

His court attracted scholars and writers from across the world. Notably, the famous English novelist E.M. Forster served as the Maharaja’s private secretary in 1921. Forster’s experiences at the court of Dewas Senior inspired his famous book, The Hill of Devi, which provides an intimate and vivid portrayal of the royal court and the eccentricities of state life during that era.

Heraldry and State Symbols

The heraldry of Dewas Senior represents its royal lineage and spiritual heritage:

• The Coat of Arms: The shield features a sacred fire-altar (Havan Kund), symbolizing the Agnikula (fire-born ) origin of the Paramara dynasty.
• Supporters: The shield is supported by two tigers, symbolizing courage and royalty.
• Crest: The crest depicts Lord Hanuman holding the Dronagiri mountain, representing strength, devotion, and protection.
• State Flag: The state flag was a saffron (Bhagwa) rectangular banner, traditionally used by Maratha rulers, representing courage, sacrifice, and spiritual values.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, Maharaja Vikramsinh Rao (Nanasaheb Maharaj), who had served with distinction in the Indian Army during World War II, signed the Instrument of Accession to the Dominion of India. In 1948, Dewas Senior merged with other princely states to form the newly created state of Madhya Bharat. Later, in 1956, Madhya Bharat was integrated into the state of Madhya Pradesh.

Today, the royal family of Dewas Senior continues to command immense respect in the region, actively participating in public service, local politics, and the preservation of the cultural heritage of Malwa.

References and External Links

• Read about the history and administration of Dewas State in the Imperial Gazetteer of India (Volume 11, Page 224-230) on the Digital South Asia Library.
• Explore E.M. Forster's account of his time at Dewas Senior in The Hill of Devi on the Internet Archive.
• Consult the historical details on Maratha states in James Grant Duff's classic work, A History of the Mahrattas on the Internet Archive.