Khejarla

Origin and Foundation of Khejarla Thikana

The Thikana of Khejarla was a prominent aristocratic fiefdom within the princely state of Jodhpur (Marwar). The rulers of Khejarla belong to the esteemed Bhati clan of Rajputs, specifically tracing their lineage to the Jaitmalot sub-clan, who are descendants of the royal house of Jaisalmer. The foundation of this estate is deeply intertwined with the military history of Marwar.

In the early 17^th century, around 1611 AD, the jagir of Khejarla was granted to Thakur Gopal Das Ji Bhati by the Maharaja of Marwar. This grand grant was a reward for his exceptional valor and unwavering loyalty on the battlefield, particularly in defending the honor of the Rathore rulers of Jodhpur against rival forces. This act established Khejarla as an influential seat of the Bhati Rajputs in the heart of Marwar.

Architectural Grandeur and Strategic Importance

To secure his newly acquired territory, Thakur Gopal Das Ji initiated the construction of the formidable Khejarla Fort. Built on a rocky outcrop, the fort was constructed using the local red sandstone, reflecting the classic Rajput military architecture of the era. The fort was strategically positioned to defend the eastern borders of Jodhpur state and secure vital trade routes passing through the region.

Over the centuries, the fort underwent several expansions, incorporating delicate balconies, intricate jali (lattice) work, and grand courtyards that blended defensive military design with the aesthetic sensibilities of Rajput courtly life. The fort served not only as a military stronghold but also as the administrative and cultural hub of the thikana.

Mughal Confrontations and British Era

During the medieval and late Mughal periods, the Thakurs of Khejarla actively participated in the military campaigns of the Jodhpur Durbar. They fought alongside the Rathore forces of Jodhpur in several historic conflicts, protecting the sovereignty of Marwar from Mughal hegemony and regional rivalries.

With the signing of the treaty of alliance between the state of Jodhpur State and the British East India Company in 1818, the region transitioned into a period of relative peace. Under the British Raj, the Thakurs of Khejarla retained their traditional administrative rights, judicial powers, and revenue collection privileges within their thikana, continuing to serve as prominent nobles of the first class in the Jodhpur royal court.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, the princely state of Jodhpur merged into the United State of Rajasthan. With the subsequent enactment of the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act in the 1950s, the feudal privileges and jagirdari rights of the Khejarla estate were officially abolished.

In the modern era, to preserve this rich architectural and historical legacy, the royal family of Khejarla converted a significant portion of their ancestral fort into a luxury heritage hotel. Today, the Khejarla Fort stands as a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the martial glory and royal heritage of Rajasthan. It is widely recognized as an architectural marvel of the Marwar region, as documented by Rajasthan Tourism.