What is the Old Name of Rajasthan?

Rajasthan is a state in north-western India, known for its rich history, beautiful palaces, forts and vast deserts. It is famous for its vibrant culture, traditional music, dance and beautiful landscapes, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. In this article, we will know about the old name of Rajasthan.

An Overview of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a large state in northwestern India, covering 342,239 square kilometers, making it the biggest state by area. It accounts for 10.4% of India’s total land area. Located in the north-west, it is home to most of the Thar Desert. Rajasthan shares borders with Pakistan’s Punjab and Sindh provinces, along the Sutlej-Indus River Valley. It is the seventh-largest state in India by population.

Old Name of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a beautiful state in India with a rich history. But before it was called Rajasthan, it had another name – Rajputana. Let’s explore its meaning, history and how the name changed.

Meaning of Rajputana

The name “Rajputana” means “The Country of the Rajputs” or “Land of the Rajputs.” The Rajputs were a group of warrior kings who ruled over large parts of Rajasthan and other regions. The name reflects the rich heritage and influence of these kings in the area.

History of Rajputana

The name Rajputana first appeared in the early Medieval Period, referring to the main settlements west of the Aravalli Hills. These areas were ruled by Rajput Kings. During British rule, the East India Company used the name Rajputana for the entire region, which included not just Rajasthan, but parts of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and some areas in Pakistan’s Sindh province.

Statehood and the Name Change

In 1949, after India gained independence, Rajputana was merged with the Indian Union. The regions that were part of Rajputana became one united state. The name “Rajasthan,” meaning “Land of Kings,” was officially adopted in the 1949 constitution to reflect the state’s royal history and unity.