Rajkot history

The history of Rajkot is a tale of princely dynasties, strategic importance, and transformation from a princely state capital to one of the key cities of Gujarat state. Located on the banks of the Aji and Nyari rivers, the city has undergone a long journey of development while preserving its historical heritage.

The city of Rajkot was founded in 1620 (according to some sources, in 1612) by Thakur Sahib Vibhaji Ajoji of the Jadeja Rajput clan. He was the grandson of the ruler of the Nawanagar princely state. The name "Rajkot", which can be translated as "royal fortress", was given in honour of Raju Sandhi, who is considered the co-founder of the city. In 1720, the city was captured by Masum Khan, a deputy of the Nawab of Junagadh, and temporarily renamed Masumabad. However, by 1732, the Jadeja dynasty regained control over the city, and its original name was restored.

The rise of Rajkot as an important centre was driven by several factors. Its location on the Kathiawar peninsula made it a strategically vital point. In the 19th century, the city began to play a key political role when, in 1822, the British Empire established the headquarters of the Kathiawar Agency here to manage the affairs of the region's princely states. This status contributed to Rajkot's administrative and infrastructural development. In the late 19th century, the construction of railways connecting Rajkot with other cities further strengthened its economic position.

From the very beginning, Rajkot was the capital of the princely state of the same name, which defined its cultural and political character. During the colonial period, the city evolved into a significant educational hub, where institutions such as Rajkumar College and other schools were built. Numerous colonial-style buildings were erected during this period, which remain part of the city's architectural heritage today. Rajkot is also known as the place where Mahatma Gandhi spent his early years, adding special historical value to the city. After India gained independence, Rajkot briefly served as the capital of the state of Saurashtra before becoming part of the state of Gujarat in 1960.

Key Milestones in the History of Rajkot

Rajkot's history is rich in events reflecting its journey from a princely capital to an important industrial centre of modern Gujarat. Here are the main stages of its development:

• 1620 — Founding of the city by Thakur Sahib Vibhaji Ajoji Jadeja, a representative of the Jadeja Rajput clan.
• 1720 — The city was captured by Masum Khan, a deputy of the Sultan of Junagadh, and temporarily renamed Masumabad.
• 1732 — The Jadeja dynasty recaptured the city, restoring its original name, Rajkot.
• 1807 — The Princely State of Rajkot officially came under British protectorate, marking the beginning of the colonial period in its history.
• 1822 — Rajkot becomes the headquarters of the Kathiawar Agency, the British administrative body for managing the region's princely states.
• 1870 — Opening of Rajkumar College, a prestigious educational institution originally intended for the sons of Indian princes.
• 1880s — Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the future leader of the Indian independence movement, spent his younger years in Rajkot.
• 1939 — Mahatma Gandhi initiates a Satyagraha (non-violent resistance) in Rajkot, demanding democratic reforms in the princely state.
• 15 February 1948 — After India's independence, the Princely State of Rajkot merged into the newly formed state of Saurashtra.
• 1948–1956 — Rajkot serves as the capital of the state of Saurashtra.
• 1 November 1956 — The state of Saurashtra was merged into the larger Bombay State.
• 1 May 1960 — Following the linguistic division of Bombay State, Rajkot officially becomes part of the newly formed state of Gujarat.

The history of Rajkot is a journey from a princely capital to one of the fastest-growing industrial centres of modern India. The city has passed through many transformations, each leaving its mark on its architecture, economy, and culture.

• Founding of the Princely State (1620)

  The city was founded by Thakore Sahib Vibhaji Ajoji of the Jadeja Rajput clan. Named after the co-founder Raju Sandhi, Rajkot became the capital of the princely state of the same name, beginning a centuries-long history of dynastic rule.

• British Administrative Centre (19th Century)

  During the colonial period, Rajkot acquired strategic importance by becoming the seat of the British administration in the Saurashtra region. This fostered infrastructure development and the founding of iconic institutions such as Rajkumar College, where the children of Indian aristocrats were educated.

• The Mahatma Gandhi Years

  Rajkot is closely linked to the life of Mahatma Gandhi, who spent his youth here. His father served as the Diwan (Prime Minister) of the princely state. This period had a profound influence on the formation of his philosophical views. Today, the house where he lived has been converted into the Kaba Gandhi No Delo museum.

• Capital of Saurashtra State (1948–1956)

  After India gained independence, Rajkot was chosen as the capital of the newly formed state of Saurashtra. This capital status, though temporary, provided a powerful impetus for urban and administrative development.

• Integration into Gujarat (1960)

  On 1 May 1960, Rajkot officially became part of the new state of Gujarat, determining its future path of development within a larger and economically stronger region.

• Engineering Hub

  In the second half of the 20th century, the city transformed into a major industrial hub, known as the "Detroit of India" thanks to its foundry and engineering enterprises. Rajkot became a leader in the production of diesel engines, auto parts, and machine tools, cementing its economic significance.

The architectural appearance of Rajkot represents an eclectic blend of traditional Indian, expressive colonial, and modern functional architecture. The city's evolution from a princely capital to a vital industrial centre of Gujarat is directly reflected in its urban landscape.

Colonial Period and Indo-Saracenic Style

The most significant contribution to Rajkot's architectural heritage was made during the British rule, when the city served as the administrative centre of the Saurashtra region. Key public and educational buildings were erected during this time, shaping its recognizable look. The dominant style of the era was Indo-Saracenic, which harmoniously combined elements of Victorian Neo-Gothic with traditional Indian and Mughal motifs. This style is characterized by the use of arches, domes, intricate "jali" lattice screens, and decorative "chhatri" kiosks.

Notable buildings from this era include:

• Rajkumar College — Founded in 1870, it is one of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in the city. Its massive stone buildings with Gothic elements and spacious grounds reflect its original purpose — educating the sons of Indian princes.
• Watson Museum — Located in the Jubilee Gardens, the museum occupies a building constructed in honour of Queen Victoria. Its architecture demonstrates classic colonial style features with European porticos and Indian decorative details.
• Alfred High School — Famous as the place where Mahatma Gandhi studied, this school is also a specimen of British colonial architecture, designed to meet the educational needs of that time.
• Lang Library and Connaught Hall — Two other important monuments built from local stone, embodying Rajkot's urban ambitions as the capital of the Kathiawar Agency.

Traditional and Modern Urban Planning

The old districts of Rajkot retain features of traditional Gujarati planning with narrow streets and residential houses in the "Haveli" style. A striking example of such a structure is Kaba Gandhi No Delo, the childhood home of Mahatma Gandhi. It is a typical house with a courtyard, carved wooden elements, and a simple, functional layout.

After India's independence and Rajkot's transformation into a major industrial hub, a new era in urban planning began. Architecture became more utilitarian and modern, focused on rapid population growth and infrastructure development. New districts were built according to a more regular plan, and modern residential complexes, commercial buildings, and industrial zones appeared. The city's participation in the national "Smart Cities Mission" stimulates further modernization of the urban environment, the implementation of eco-friendly solutions, and the improvement of public spaces.

Notable People Associated with Rajkot

Rajkot, being an important historical and cultural centre, is linked to the names of many prominent figures who have made significant contributions to the politics, culture, sports, and public life of India.

• Mohandas Karamchand (Mahatma) Gandhi — Father of the Nation and ideologue of the Indian independence movement. Although born in Porbandar, it was in Rajkot that Gandhi spent his youth and received his primary education. This period had a tremendous impact on shaping his personality and the philosophy of non-violent resistance (Satyagraha). His family home, Kaba Gandhi No Delo, is a museum today.
• Karamchand Uttamchand Gandhi — Diwan (Prime Minister) of the Princely State of Rajkot and father of Mahatma Gandhi. He was an influential administrator and served at the courts of several Kathiawar princely states. His service in Rajkot secured a prominent position in society for his family.
• Thakur Sahib Vibhaji Ajoji Jadeja — Founder of Rajkot city. In 1620, this representative of the Jadeja Rajput clan laid the foundation for the city, which subsequently became the capital of the princely state and a vital regional centre.
• Sir Lakhajiraj III — Ruler (Thakur Sahib) of Rajkot State (1890–1930). He went down in history as a progressive and visionary monarch. During his reign, important social and infrastructural reforms were implemented, and schools, libraries, and hospitals were built. He was a proponent of education and a patron of the arts.
• Cheteshwar Pujara — Renowned Indian cricketer. Born in Rajkot, he is one of India's most respected contemporary athletes. Known for his patient and technical style of play, he has long been a key batsman for the national cricket team in the Test format.
• Pankaj Udhas — World-famous Ghazal singer. Although born in Jetpur, his family was closely connected to Rajkot. Pankaj Udhas made a huge contribution to popularizing the Ghazal genre not only in India but globally, becoming one of the most beloved singers of his generation.