Surnana

Origin and Foundation of Surnana Thikana

Surnana Thikana, located near Bikaner in present-day Rajasthan, was a prominent estate of the Karamsot Rathore clan. The Karamsots are the patrilineal descendants of Rao Karamsi (also known as Rao Karamsen), one of the illustrious sons of Rao Jodha, the 15^th-century founder of Jodhpur. Because Rao Karamsi was a brother to Rao Bika (the founder of the Bikaner State), the Karamsot Rajputs shared close kinship ties with the ruling house of Bikaner. The estate of Surnana was granted to the family as a jagir (fiefdom) in recognition of their military valor, loyalty, and ancestral connection to the Bikaner throne.

Historical Significance and the British Era

Throughout the medieval period, the Thakurs (nobles) of Surnana played an important role in safeguarding the northern desert frontiers of Bikaner. Renowned for their martial prowess, the Karamsots of Surnana actively participated in the state’s military campaigns and defended the boundaries against local incursions. During the British Raj, following Bikaner State's treaty of subsidiary alliance with the East India Company in 1818, Surnana transitioned from a military outpost into a stable feudal estate. The chieftains turned their attention toward local administration, land management, and social welfare under the broader suzerainty of the Bikaner Durbar. More details on the administrative history of the region can be found in the historical records of Bikaner State on Wikipedia.

Post-Independence and Modern Era

Following India's independence in 1947 and the integration of princely states, the Bikaner State acceded to the Union of India. With the enactment of the Rajasthan Land Reforms and Resumption of Jagirs Act in 1952, the feudal privileges and jagirdari rights of Surnana Thikana were formally abolished. Today, Surnana is a historical village situated in the Lunkaransar tehsil of Bikaner district. The descendants of the Surnana Thikana continue to reside in the region, preserving their rich cultural heritage, ancestral fort, and the proud legacy of the Karamsot Rathores. For more information on the lineage of the founding ancestors, refer to the history of Rao Jodha on Wikipedia.