Tag: kings and kingdoms of the early medieval period

Mahmud of Ghazni for the first time attacked modern Afghanistan and Pakistan in 1000 AD. There he defeated Hindu Shahi ruler Jaipala, who committed suicide later and was succeeded then by his son Anandpala. He formed an alliance with the rulers of central and western India to repulse Ghazni.

In the nineteenth century, the region that constitutes most of present-day Rajasthan was called as Rajputana by the British. While this may suggest that this was an area that was inhabited only or mainly by Rajputs.

There were several groups who identify themselves as Rajputs in many areas of northern and central India. And of course, there are several peoples other than Rajputs who live in Rajasthan. However, the Rajputs are often recognised as contributing to the distinctive culture of Rajasthan.

From the eighth century onwards, a samanta or, in later times, a zamindar built a fortified palace in or near the towns. They levied taxes on traders, artisans and articles of trade and sometimes donated the right to collect these taxes to local temples, which had been built by themselves or by rich merchants. These rights were recorded in inscriptions that have survived to this day.