Kumbhana

Origin and Foundation

The Thikana of Kumbhana holds a highly distinguished position in the historical hierarchy of the erstwhile princely state of Bikaner. Belonging to the illustrious Ratansinghot branch of the Bika Rathore clan, Kumbhana is recognized as one of the premier noble estates, second only to the estate of Mahajan. The lineage of this estate traces its origin back to Rao Lunkaran, the ruler of Bikaner (reigned 1505–1526 AD), who was the son of Rao Bika, the founder of the Bikaner state.

The progenitor of the Kumbhana branch was Thakur Kesri Singh, who was sixth in descent from Rao Lunkaran. The Ratansinghot Bikas are descendants of Maharajkumar Ratan Singh, a prince of Bikaner whose lineage established some of the most powerful and loyal feudal estates (Thikanas) in the region, acting as major pillars of military and administrative strength for the ruling Maharaja of Bikaner.

Feudal Status and Privileges in Bikaner Darbar

Due to their close blood relations with the ruling house of Bikaner and their exceptional military services to the state, the Chiefs of Kumbhana enjoyed exemplary honors in the Bikaner court (Darbar). The Thakur of Kumbhana was a noble of the highest order, entitled to the rare privileges of Double Tazim and Kurab Hath:

• Double Tazim: A prestigious ceremonial honor where the Maharaja of Bikaner would stand up to receive the noble upon his arrival in the court and would stand again to see him off upon his departure.
• Kurab Hath: A mark of intimate respect and royal favor wherein the Maharaja would place his hand on the shoulder of the noble during formal receptions, symbolizing equality, trust, and kinship.

These distinctions placed the Kumbhana family among the topmost aristocracy of Bikaner State, ensuring their influential voice in state affairs, succession councils, and military campaigns.

Role in State Administration and Military Campaigns

Throughout the Mughal and British periods, the rulers of Bikaner were heavily involved in external military campaigns, from the Deccan expeditions under the Mughal Emperors to the wars of the British Empire. The nobles of Kumbhana actively led their feudal levies under the Bikaner state banner. As part of their feudal obligations (Chakri), the Thikana maintained a dedicated force of cavalry and infantry for the defense of the state's borders and represented the crown in various regional administrative duties.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, the princely state of Bikaner acceded to the Dominion of India. Under the leadership of Maharaja Sadul Singh, Bikaner was integrated into the United State of Greater Rajasthan in 1949. Subsequently, with the passing of the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act in 1952, the feudal privileges, jagirdari rights, and administrative powers of Kumbhana Thikana were formally abolished.

Today, the descendants of the Kumbhana royal family reside in Rajasthan and other parts of India, preserving their rich cultural heritage, historical archives, and traditional customs as proud representatives of the Rathore dynasty's legacy in Bikaner.