Masuda

The estate of Masuda was founded by Thakur Hanwant Singh in 1557, grandson of Rao Viram Deo of Merta, himself grandson of Rao Jodhaji of Jodhpur. It represents one of the most prominent branches of the Mertia Rathore clan of Rajputs, who played a significant role in the military and political history of Central Rajasthan.

Origin and Foundation

The ruling family of Masuda traces its lineage to Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. Rao Jodha's son, Rao Duda, established the independent principality of Merta, and his descendants came to be known as the Mertia Rathores. Following the political upheavals in Merta during the mid-16^th century, Thakur Hanwant Singh, a descendant of the legendary Rao Viram Deo, carved out a distinct territory at Masuda in 1557 AD. The region of Masuda, strategically located in the Ajmer-Merwara division, became the permanent seat of this branch of the Rathore dynasty.

Mughal and Maratha Periods

Due to its proximity to the historic city of Ajmer—which served as a vital Mughal subah (province)—Masuda maintained delicate diplomatic and military relations with the Mughal Empire. During the reign of Emperor Akbar and his successors, the Mertia Rathores of Masuda served in various imperial campaigns while retaining internal autonomy over their thikana (estate).

In the late 18^th century, as Mughal authority waned, the Marathas, particularly the Scindias of Gwalior, asserted dominance over the Ajmer region. The rulers of Masuda, along with other local chieftains, faced heavy exactions and military pressure from Maratha commanders. Despite these turbulent times, the estate managed to survive through strategic alliances and localized defense.

The British Raj and Istimrari Status

With the signing of the Treaty of 1818 between the British East India Company and Daulat Rao Scindia, the territory of Ajmer-Merwara was ceded to the British. Under the British administration, the land tenure system of Ajmer was formalized, and Masuda was recognized as an Istimrari estate.

Unlike ordinary jagirdars in other parts of Rajputana, the Istimrardars of Ajmer-Merwara held a unique and prestigious status. They were considered tributary chiefs who held their estates in perpetuity subject to the payment of a fixed annual tribute (jamma). The Thakur of Masuda held judicial and administrative powers within his territory and was highly respected among the nobility of the province. Detailed accounts of the administrative status of Masuda can be found in the historical records of the Imperial Gazetteer of India.

Modernization and Key Reformers

In the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries, Masuda transitioned into a highly progressive estate. The rulers focused heavily on modern education, judicial reforms, and infrastructure development.

Among the key reformers was Rao Bahadur Singh and later Rao Bahadur Narayan Singh of Masuda. Under their patronage, several schools, cooperative societies, and water conservation bodies were established. The ruling family maintained close ties with Mayo College in Ajmer, an institution where generations of Masuda nobles received modern education, preparing them for leadership in a rapidly changing India.

Post-Independence and the Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, Ajmer-Merwara initially became a Part 'C' State within the Indian Union before merging into the state of Rajasthan in 1956. With the passage of the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act, the feudal privileges and Istimrari rights of Masuda were formally abolished.

Transitioning from feudal lords to democratic leaders, members of the Masuda royal family actively participated in public service and state politics. Rao Bahadur Shiv Charan Singh of Masuda became a prominent political figure in post-independence Rajasthan, serving as a member of the legislative assembly (MLA) and as the Deputy Speaker of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly. Today, the family continues to be respected for its historical legacy, philanthropy, and contributions to the socio-economic development of the Ajmer district.