Kota - BindaasTravel.com | Kota- Indian Travel Destination | Kota Maps , Wallpapers , History | Hotels in Kota

History

The history of Kota generally revolves around the city of Kota. The kingdom of Kota was ruled by the Hadas and was thus known as the land of the Hadaoli. They were known to be the descendants of Chauhan clan of the Agnikula Rajputs. Initially they had settled in the hilly terrain of Mewar near Bijolianat Bambaoda in the 12th century A.D. they slowly extended their empire and conquered Bundi in 1241 A.D. however it was not before 1624 that Kota became a separate identity. It was separated from Bundi in 1579 to create an individual kingdom. The kingdom was ruled by Rao Madho Singh quite efficiently.

Rao Madho Singh at the age of fourteen was popular for his ability as a fighter. It was one of the reasons why a separate kingdom was carved out for him. He fought for the ageing Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, against his usurper son, Aurangzeb. The history of Kota is dotted with tales of courage and sacrifice. Five of Rao Madho Singh`s six sons died on the battlefield. While Bundi was hidden away from the invasions amidst the hills Kota was not that fortunate. It was threatened by Mughal rulers, the Maharajas of Jaipur and Mewar, the Maratha warlords, and sometimes their own cousins in Bundi. It was through diplomacy that the rulers of Kota would often safeguard their kingdom. One such move was an alliance with the Marathas through a treaty in the 18th century to keep the Kachhawas rulers of Jaipur away from Kota.

One of the most interesting characters of modern Rajput history is Zalim Singh, a statesman and diplomat. He was often known as the "Talleyrand of North India" and the "Machiavelli of Rajwarra." Beginning as a general of the Kota armies he went onto become the Regent of the kingdom when the ruler died. He left an infant son on the throne. At this time Zalim Singh reorganized the kingdom and he was the first one who signed a treaty with the British. By doing this he ensured that Kota would be divided into his sons equally. This treaty was signed in the year 1817. Under the guidance of Zalim Singh Kota prospered. Due to this treaty a new state of Jhalawar was formed in 1838. his diplomatic decisions and smart moves gave Kota recognition amongst the Rajputana states.

In the Indian history too Kota was of great importance as it was one of those kingdom`s that took part in the Revolt of 1857.

Keshoraipatan

This is located 22 kilometers northeast of Kota. It was the residence of presiding deity of Hadoti, Shri Keshav Raiji. The lord is also known as Keshoraipatan. This medieval temple has robust fortification just like any other citadel. The holy shrine is located on the bank of Chambal River. A grand fair takes place in the month of Kartik. During this fair the devotees take dip in the river, seek the Lord Krishna`s blessings and enjoy the boat race. This place is also famous for handicrafts belonging to the Hadoti kingdom. 3 kilometers away from this place lies the beautiful rock paintings adorn the bank of River Alaniya.

Darrah Wildlife Sanctuary

It was once upon a time the hunting reserve for the royal family of Kota. It is located at a distance of 50 kilometers from Kota. The sanctuary is situated on a sprawling 250 km. Wild animals like leopard, sloth bear, chinkara and wolf are to be found here. This place has been the muse for the Kota School of Rajasthani miniature paintings for ages. Hunting scenes from this sanctuary have been depicted in these paintings time and again.

Sorsan Grasslands

This is another natural paradise and is located at Shergarh. This place is located at a distance of 45 kilometers at the southeast of Kota. A variety of migratory birds are its major attraction. The bird lovers will have a fantastic time here as they can check out several species of birds, such as, larks, warblers, flycatchers and rosy pastors. The perfect time to visit this grassland is from October to March. Endangered species like great Indian bustard are also found here. The visitors can also catch a glimpse of bulbul, quails, partridges, mynas, shrikes, weavers and orioles. The town of Shergarh is also important for a host of havelis, ancient ruins and temples. There is an inscription within the town that establishes its antiquity.

Surface

Kota has a good network of roads, which connect the place to important cities in Rajasthan and outside the state like, Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bundi.

Train

The place has a railway station too. It falls o the Delhi - Mumbai rail route. A number of prestigious trains link Kota to various other railway stations in all other the country.
ravel.mapsofindia offers online booking of hotels and tour packages to Kota and all over India.

Air

Kota has an airport of its own. The domestic airport is connected to Jaipur, which is in turn linked to major cities like, Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur etc.