Simla

Origin and Foundation

The Thikana of Simla (not to be confused with the summer capital of British India, Shimla) is an estate of historical significance located within the erstwhile princely state of Bikaner in Rajasthan. It serves as an ancestral seat of the Sringot (or Shringot) clan, a prominent sub-branch of the Bika Rathore dynasty. The lineage of Simla’s rulers traces back to Maharaj Sring Ji (Shring Ji), an influential prince who was the son of Rao Jaitsi, the fourth Rathore ruler of Bikaner who reigned during the early 16^th century.

The estate of Simla was formally carved out and granted during the reign of Maharaja Surat Singh of Bikaner (who ruled from 1787 to 1828). The grant was bestowed upon Thakur Gyan Singh Ji, the son of Thakur Madan Singh Ji of the premier Sringot estate of Bhukarka. This grant consolidated the family's status among the leading aristocracy of the region.

Court Status and Privileges

As premier nobles of the Bikaner State, the Thakurs of Simla enjoyed a highly elevated status in the royal court (Darbar). They were entitled to the prestigious honors of Ikladi Tazim and Banho Pasanv:

• Ikladi Tazim: A ceremonial honor wherein the Maharaja of Bikaner would stand up to receive or dismiss the noble in the court, symbolizing mutual respect and high aristocratic standing.
• Banho Pasanv: A court privilege where the sovereign would extend his arms or touch the shoulder of the noble, symbolizing royal favor, intimacy, and trust.

These distinctions placed the Thakurs of Simla among the topmost echelon of the "Tazimi Sardars" of the state, ensuring their participation in major administrative and military decisions of Bikaner.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947, the princely state of Bikaner acceded to the Union of India, subsequently merging into the state of Rajasthan. With the passage of the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act in 1952, the traditional jagirdari and feudal privileges were formally abolished.

Despite the loss of administrative powers, the descendants of the Simla Thikana have actively preserved their cultural legacy, ancestral properties, and local heritage. Today, they remain respected custodians of the region's historical traditions and Sringot Rathore genealogy.