Sohari

Origin and Foundation of the Thikana

The Thikana of Sohari is historically held by the Dayaldasot branch of the Ratnawat Shekhawat clan, a prominent sub-division of the Kachwaha dynasty of Rajputs. The lineage traces its roots back to the legendary Rao Shekha Ji, the founder of the Shekhawat clan. His second son, Rao Akheraj Ji, was granted the estates of Rajnauta, Antela, Bhabhru, Khelna, and Bhonas around 1570 Vikram Samvat (circa 1513 CE), spanning a vast territory of two lakh bighas.

Subsequently, Rao Akheraj's son, Rao Kanhe Ji, was granted an estate of fifty thousand bighas centered around Antela in 1602 Vikram Samvat (circa 1545 CE). Over generations, the descendants migrated to Raghunathpura Torda. A pivotal figure in this lineage, Dayaldas Ji, moved towards Nahad (near Rewari). At the time, the local populace of Nahad was plagued by the depredations of the notorious dacoit Chanderbhan Tanwar. Dayaldas Ji confronted and defeated the dacoit, establishing order in the region. He later moved to Satnali in the modern-day Mahendragarh district of Haryana. Dayaldas Ji eventually achieved martyrdom in a battle against the Tanwar Rajputs of Torawati. In honor of his bravery, his descendants came to be known as the Dayaldasot Shekhawats.

Following his death, his three sons established their respective seats: Shyamdas Ji founded Satnali, Manohardas Ji established Sohansara, and Narayandas Ji settled Jadwa. Around 1780 Vikram Samvat (circa 1723 CE), Rao Swaroop Singh Ji, the great-grandson of Dayaldas Ji, founded the Thikana of Sohari.

The Region and Territorial Influence

Over the centuries, the Dayaldasot Shekhawats of this region established a strong and prominent socio-political presence on the borders of Rajasthan and Haryana. The influence of the Sohari Thikana historically extended over seven prominent neighboring villages, collectively recognized as a stronghold of the clan:

• Sohari
• Satnali
• Jadwa
• Pathrawa
• Dhana
• Nangla
• Shyampura

Colonial Era and Military Tradition

During the late 18^th and 19^th centuries, the Shekhawats of Mahendragarh navigated the complex geopolitical shifts involving the Marathas, the local nawabs, and eventually the British East India Company. The region of Mahendragarh was later integrated into the princely state of Patiala under the British Raj. Known for their martial prowess, the Dayaldasot Shekhawats transitioned smoothly into formal military service, joining the British Indian Army and maintaining their ancestral tradition of chivalry and warfare.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947 and the abolition of the princely states and jagirdari systems, the residents of Sohari successfully transitioned into democratic governance while keeping their martial legacy alive.

The village of Sohari is renowned for its exceptional contribution to the nation's defense forces. True to their Rajput heritage, almost every household in the village has historically sent at least one member to serve in the Indian Armed Forces, particularly in the prestigious Rajputana Rifles.

In civil administration and local politics, the family has produced several highly respected leaders. Shri Shimbhu Singh was twice elected as the undisputed Sarpanch of the region, reflecting the community's trust in his leadership. Another notable figure from this lineage was Captain Ratan Singh Shekhawat, who served as an influential politician associated with the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), continuing the family's legacy of public service in the state of Haryana.