Ridi

Origin and Genealogy

The Ridi Jagir is held by the Gajsinghgot sub-clan of the Bika Rathores, who trace their ancestry directly to Maharajkumar Chattar Singh Ji, a prince of the royal house of Bikaner. This lineage shares its immediate ancestry with the Lallgarh Palace family, representing the closest blood relations to the ruling Maharaja of Bikaner.

Historically, the nobles of Ridi, along with those of Tejrasar, belonged to the elite Dyodhiwala branch of the Bikaner Royal Family. The term Dyodhiwala designated those close royal kinsmen who had access to the inner chambers (Dyodhi) of the palace. Due to this prestigious proximity, they held the status of "Maharaj" or "Brother" to the Maharaja. In the hierarchy of the Bikaner Darbar, they occupied seats of the highest honor, positioned immediately adjacent to the Maharajkumars (Princes).

Historical Seats and Residences

Before settling in Ridi, the family held seats at Chattargadh and later at Khilriya. In Bikaner city, the primary seat of the Dyodhiwala nobles was the historic Dalel Niwas, located within the formidable ramparts of the Junagarh Fort.

The family continued to reside in Dalel Niwas well into the mid-20^th century, maintaining their traditional lifestyle until the fort was transitioned into public and private royal trusts in the 1960s. Notably, Maharaj Pushpendra Singh Ji—son of Air Commodore (Maharaj) Bahadur Singh Ji—was the last Rajkumar to be born within the precincts of the Junagarh Fort.

Contributions to Bikaner State and Military Services

Throughout the 19^th and 20^th centuries, members of the Ridi family served the Bikaner State in administrative, diplomatic, and military capacities. They played an active role during the British Raj, participating in state missions and supporting the modernization initiatives of Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji.

Following India's independence and the integration of princely states, the family adapted seamlessly to democratic India. Several members joined the Indian Armed Forces, most notably Air Commodore (Maharaj) Bahadur Singh Ji, who served with distinction in the Indian Air Force.

Preservation of Heritage and Modern Era

The Ridi family played a pivotal role in preserving the cultural legacy of Bikaner. Maharaj Devi Singh Ji of this house was the chief curator responsible for the initial cataloging, preservation, and curation of the vast historical collections at Junagarh Fort, turning it into one of Rajasthan's most well-preserved tourist destinations. More details about Bikaner's heritage management can be explored on the official portal of Bikaner District Administration.

In the modern era, descendants of the Ridi Jagir have established themselves across diverse global industries, including tourism, fashion, hospitality, education, finance, and technology, while continuing to maintain their ancestral ties and traditional titles.