Nokha-Chandawata

Origin and Foundation of Nokha-Chandawata

The historical estate of Nokha-Chandawata (often referred to as Nokha Chandawatan), situated in the Nagaur district of Rajasthan, is a premier Thikana belonging to the illustrious Chandawat sub-clan of the Mertia Rathores. The lineage of the Mertia Rathores traces back to Rao Duda, a son of Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. Rao Duda carved out his own principality around Merta, establishing the Mertia branch of the Rathore dynasty.

The specific sub-clan of Chandawat Mertias descends from Thakur Chanda (also known as Chandra Sen), a brave warrior and son of the legendary Rao Jaimal Rathore of Merta. Rao Jaimal is immortalized in Indian history for his heroic defense of the Chittorgarh Fort against the Mughal Emperor Akbar during the Siege of 1567–1568. The descendants of Thakur Chanda were granted the fiefdom of Nokha, which subsequently came to be known as Nokha-Chandawata to distinguish it as the seat of the Chandawat branch of the family.

The Mughal and Maratha Eras

Throughout the 17^th and 18^th centuries, the Thakurs of Nokha-Chandawata served the parent state of Marwar (Jodhpur) with immense valor and loyalty. During the period of Mughal supremacy, the Mertia Rathores of Nokha were frequently called upon to lead the vanguard forces of the Jodhpur state in various imperial campaigns and regional conflicts.

In the turbulent 18^th century, as the Maratha Empire expanded its influence into Rajputana, the rulers of Nokha-Chandawata stood firmly in defense of the borders of Marwar. Situated strategically near the historical town of Merta, the Thikana played a critical defensive and administrative role in safeguarding the eastern frontiers of the Jodhpur State from external incursions.

British Raj and Administrative Status

With the signing of the treaty of alliance between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Marwar in 1818, the region entered an era of relative peace and administrative stabilization. Under British suzerainty, Nokha-Chandawata was recognized as an influential vassal state within the Jodhpur State administration. The Thakurs of the estate retained their internal judicial, administrative, and revenue-collecting powers, contributing significantly to the local economy while maintaining law and order in their territory.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947 and the subsequent integration of the princely states of Rajputana into the United State of Rajasthan, the Thikana of Nokha-Chandawata transitioned into the modern democratic framework. With the passage of the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act in 1952, the traditional jagirdari and feudal privileges were formally abolished.

Today, the descendants of the noble house of Nokha-Chandawata continue to preserve their ancestral heritage, historical artifacts, and traditions. They remain deeply respected figures in the region, actively engaging in social welfare, local development, and the preservation of Rathore Rajput history.

References and Historical Sources

• Merta City and the Mertia Rathores - Wikipedia
• Rao Jaimal of Merta - Wikipedia
• Rathore Dynasty History and Sub-clans - Wikipedia