Lathi

Origin and Foundation: The Gohil Dynasty

The history of the Lathi princely state is deeply intertwined with the migration and expansion of the Gohil Rajput clan in the Kathiawar peninsula. The lineage traces its origin back to Thakore Sejakji, a prominent Gohil chieftain who migrated from Khergarh in Marwar around the year 1260 CE. Seeking new territories, Sejakji established his authority in Kathiawar and founded the town of Sejakpur. His strategic alliances, particularly with the Chudasama rulers of Junagadh, solidified the Gohil presence in the region.

Upon Sejakji's death, his territories were divided among his sons. His fourth son, Thakore Saheb Sarangji, received the estate of Arthila. Sarangji established Arthila as an independent seat of power, where his descendants ruled successfully for four generations, expanding their agricultural and political influence across the surrounding plains.

The Fall of Arthila and the Transition to Lathi

The prosperity of Arthila was cut short during the reign of Thakore Saheb Dudoji. A severe conflict arose between the Gohils of Arthila and the powerful Chudasama dynasty of Junagadh. Raja Mandalik (Ra Mandalik III) of Junagadh marched upon Arthila, besieged the town, and sacked it. Thakore Saheb Dudoji was slain in the battle, defending his capital.

Following the destruction of Arthila, the surviving Gohils, led by the descendants of Dudoji, withdrew further east and established their new capital at Lathi. Despite the loss of their original seat, the Gohils of Lathi successfully consolidated their rule over this new territory, retaining their independence and sovereignty through centuries of regional turbulence until the mid-20^th century.

The Reign of Kalapi: A Literary and Social Renaissance

The most celebrated ruler of Lathi was Thakore Sursinhji Takhtasinhji Gohil, widely known by his pen name, Kalapi (1874–1900). Ascending the throne of Lathi in 1895, Kalapi was not only a benevolent ruler but also an extraordinarily gifted poet of the Gujarati language. His collection of poems, Kekarav, and his travelogues remain cornerstones of Gujarati literature.

Despite his short life, Kalapi introduced significant social and educational reforms in Lathi. He advocated for modern education, established schools, and sought to alleviate the tax burdens on the local peasantry. His deeply humanistic outlook and his tragic love story with a royal maid named Shobhna heavily influenced his literary works and left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Saurashtra. A detailed account of his life and works can be explored through the Gujarati Sahitya Parishad.

The British Era and State Administration

During the British Raj, Lathi was classified as a Fourth Class state within the Kathiawar Agency. Under the colonial administrative framework, the state paid annual tribute (known as Peshkash or Pratabgiri) to both the British Crown and the Gaekwad of Baroda.

Historically, the administrative and military capabilities of the state were modest but highly organized. As of 1892, the Chief of Lathi maintained a compact military force consisting of:

• 12 Cavalrymen
• 25 Infantrymen
• 10 Artillery Guns

This force was primarily used for ceremonial purposes, maintaining internal security, and protecting trade routes passing through the state. Historical records detailing the administrative classification of Kathiawar states can be referenced in the Gazetteer of the Bombay Presidency: Kathwar (Volume VIII).

Post-Independence Integration and Modern Era

Following the end of British rule in India in 1947, the last ruling chief of Lathi, Thakore Saheb Prahladsinhji, signed the Instrument of Accession, merging the state into the United State of Kathiawar (later known as Saurashtra State) on February 15, 1948. This historical transition is documented in V.P. Menon's classic work on the unification of India, available via the Internet Archive's Digital Library.

In 1960, with the reorganization of states on a linguistic basis, Lathi became a part of the Amreli district in the state of Gujarat. Today, Lathi is remembered for its rich literary associations with Kalapi, and the erstwhile royal palace stands as a historic monument drawing tourists and literary enthusiasts from across India.