Gondal, India: Difference between revisions

What links here Related changes Page information Get shortened URL
Created by WhoAteMyButter
Last edited March 14, 2026
VisualWikitext
>WhoAteMyButter
m Rollback edit(s) by MyGujarat1 (talk): Addition of unnecessary/inappropriate external links (RW 16.1)
 
m further adjusted formatting based on references further and improved wording
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2018}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2022}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2018}}
{{Use Indian English|date=July 2018}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name                           = Gondal
| name                     = Gondal
| settlement_type                 = City
| settlement_type         = City
| image_skyline                   = Gondal, India.jpg
| image_skyline           = Gondal, India.jpg
| image_alt                       =  
| image_alt               =  
| image_caption                   = View of Gondal
| image_caption           = View of Gondal
| pushpin_map                     = India Gujarat#India3
| pushpin_map             = India Gujarat#India3
| pushpin_label_position         = right
| pushpin_label_position   = right
| pushpin_map_alt                 =  
| pushpin_map_alt         =  
| pushpin_map_caption             = Location in Gujarat, India
| pushpin_map_caption     = Location in Gujarat, India
| coordinates                     = {{coord|21.958|N|70.795|E|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates             = {{coord|21.958|N|70.795|E|display=inline,title}}
| subdivision_type               = Country
| subdivision_type         = Country
| subdivision_name               = India
| subdivision_name         = India
| subdivision_type1               = State
| subdivision_type1       = State
| subdivision_name1               = [[Gujarat]]
| subdivision_name1       = [[Gujarat]]
| subdivision_type2               = District
| subdivision_type2       = District
| subdivision_name2               = [[Rajkot district|Rajkot]]
| subdivision_name2       = [[Rajkot district|Rajkot]]
| established_title               = <!-- Established -->
| established_title       = <!-- Established -->
| unit_pref                       = Metric
| founder                  = Kumbhoji I Jadeja
| elevation_m                     = 132
| unit_pref               = Metric
| population_total               = 1,73353<ref name="2011 Census data">{{cite web|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/pca/cdb_pca_census/PCA%20CDB-2409-F-Census.xlsx|title=Census of India: 2011|publisher=Census Commission of India|access-date=2020-05-13}}</ref>
| elevation_m             = 132
| population_as_of               = 2011
| population_total         = 1,73353<ref name="2011 Census data">{{cite web|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/pca/cdb_pca_census/PCA%20CDB-2409-F-Census.xlsx|title=Census of India: 2011|publisher=Census Commission of India|access-date=13 May 2020}}</ref>
| population_rank                 = 30th (Gujarat)
| population_as_of         = 2011
| population_density_km2         = auto
| population_rank         = 30th (Gujarat)
| population_demonym             =  
| population_density_km2   = auto
| population_footnotes           =  
| population_demonym       =  
| demographics_type1             = Languages
| population_footnotes     =  
| demographics1_title1           = Official
| demographics_type1       = Languages
| demographics1_info1             = [[Gujarati language|Gujarati]]
| demographics1_title1     = Official
| timezone1                       = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| demographics1_info1     = [[Gujarati language|Gujarati]]
| utc_offset1                     = +5:30
| timezone1               = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| postal_code_type               = <!-- [[Postal Index Number|PIN]] -->
| utc_offset1             = +5:30
| postal_code                     = 360311
| postal_code_type         = <!-- [[Postal Index Number|PIN]] -->
| area_code_type                 = STD code  
| postal_code             = 360311
| area_code                       = 02825
| area_code_type           = STD code
| registration_plate             = GJ 03
| area_code               = 02825
| website                         = https://www.gondalnagarpalika.org/
| registration_plate       = GJ 03
| footnotes                       =  
| website                 = {{URL |https://www.gondalnagarpalika.org/}}
| official_name                   =  
| footnotes               =  
| official_name           =
| area_total_km2          = 74.48
}}
}}


'''Gondal''' is a city and a [[municipality]] in the [[Rajkot district]] of the Indian state of [[Gujarat]]. [[Gondal State]] was one of the eight first-class [[princely states]] of [[Kathiawar Agency]], [[Bombay Presidency]] in [[British India]]. Ruled by a Hindu [[Rajput]] dynasty of the [[Jadeja]] clan, the capital of the state was '''Gondal''' town. In 2011, the Population of the Gondal City Was 113,000 approximately.<ref name="GR|India">{{cite web|url=http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/326-gondal.html|title=Census of India: 2011|publisher=Census Commission of India|access-date=2016-07-03}}</ref>
'''Gondal''' is a city of about 115,000 residents<ref name="GR|India">{{cite web|url=http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/326-gondal.html|title=Census of India: 2011|publisher=Census Commission of India|access-date=3 July 2016}}</ref> and a [[municipality]] of about 175,000 in the [[Rajkot district]] of the Indian state of [[Gujarat]]. Gondal village was one of the eight first-class [[princely states]] of [[Kathiawar Agency]], [[Bombay Presidency]] in [[British India]].


==History==
==History==
{{See also|Gondal State}}
{{See also|Gondal State}}
[[File:H.H. Maharaja Thakore Shri Sir Bhagwant Singhji Sagramji Sahib Bahadur, Maharaja of Gondal, GCSI, GCIE, 1911.jpg|left|110px|thumb|Maharaja [[Bhagvatsinhji]] of Gondal, 1911]]
[[File:H.H. Maharaja Thakore Shri Sir Bhagwant Singhji Sagramji Sahib Bahadur, Maharaja of Gondal, GCSI, GCIE, 1911.jpg|left|110px|thumb|Maharaja [[Bhagvatsinhji]] of Gondal, 1911]]
Gondal is mentioned in texts like ''[[Ain-i-Akbari]]'' (written in the reign of [[Akbar]]) and ''Mirat-i-Ahmadi'' as a Vaghela state in Sorath ([[Saurashtra (region)|Saurashtra]]). The [[Gondal State]] in [[Kathiawar Agency]] was founded in 1634 by [[Thakore Shri Kumbhoji I Meramanji]] from the [[Jadeja]] dynasty, who received [[Ardoi]] and other villages from his father Meramanji.<ref name=gondal/> Kumbhoki's fourth descendant, [[Kumbhoji IV]], increased the size of the state by acquiring [[pargana]]s such as Dhoraji, Upleta, and Sarai.<ref name=gondal>[https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/gazetteer/pager.html?objectid=DS405.1.I34_V12_325.gif Gondal state] ''[[The Imperial Gazetteer of India]]'', 1908. v. 12, ''p. 319''</ref>
Gondal is mentioned in texts like the ''[[Ain-i-Akbari]]'' (written in the reign of [[Akbar]]) and ''Mirat-i-Ahmadi'' as a [[Vaghela dynasty|Vaghela]] state in Sorath ([[Saurashtra (region)|Saurashtra]]). The [[Gondal State]] in [[Kathiawar Agency]] was founded in 1634 by Kumbhojī I from the [[Jadeja]] dynasty, who received [[Ardoi]] and other villages from his father Merāmanjī.<ref name=gondal/> Kumbhoji's fourth descendant, Kumbhoji IV, increased the size of the state by acquiring [[pargana]]s such as Dhoraji, Upleta, and Sarai.<ref name=gondal>[https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/gazetteer/pager.html?objectid=DS405.1.I34_V12_325.gif Gondal state] ''[[The Imperial Gazetteer of India]]'', 1908. v. 12, ''p. 319''</ref>


[[Bhagvatsinhji|Sir Bhagwant Singhji]], who reigned from 1888 until his death in 1944, was noted for tax reforms, compulsory education for women, and also for stopping the practice of [[purdah]] (female seclusion) at a time when the royal households of India were known for this tradition.<ref>[http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,740757,00.html Purdah Women] ''[[TIME]]'', Monday, 24 November 1930.</ref>
[[Bhagvatsinhji|Sir Bhagwant Singhji]], who reigned from 1888 until his death in 1944, was noted for tax reforms, compulsory education for women, and also for stopping the practice of [[purdah]] (female seclusion) at a time when the royal households of India were known for this tradition.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20110130050139/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,740757,00.html "Purdah Women"]. ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'', 24 November 1930.</ref>


In 1901, Gondal city had a population of 19,592, and was a stop on the branch line between Rajkot and Jetalsar on the [[Viramgam–Okha line|Viramgam–Rajkot]] and [[Rajkot–Somnath line|Rajkot–Somnath]] lines.<ref>[https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/gazetteer/pager.html?objectid=DS405.1.I34_V12_327.gif Gondal Town] ''[[The Imperial Gazetteer of India]]'', 1908, v. 12, ''p. 321''</ref>
In 1901, Gondal city had a population of 19,592, and was a stop on the branch line between Rajkot and Jetalsar on the [[Viramgam–Okha line|Viramgam–Rajkot]] and [[Rajkot–Somnath line|Rajkot–Somnath]] lines.<ref>[https://dsal.uchicago.edu/reference/gazetteer/pager.html?objectid=DS405.1.I34_V12_327.gif Gondal Town] ''[[The Imperial Gazetteer of India]]'', 1908, v. 12, ''p. 321''</ref>
Line 55: Line 57:
The ancestors of [[Muhammad Ali Jinnah]], founder of Pakistan, belong to Paneli village in Gondal state.
The ancestors of [[Muhammad Ali Jinnah]], founder of Pakistan, belong to Paneli village in Gondal state.


===Historical places of Gondal===
===Historical places===
[[File:Naulakha Palace 02.jpg|thumb|Detail of Naulakha Palace]]
[[File:Naulakha Palace 02.jpg|thumb|Detail of Naulakha Palace]]
[[File:Baroda state 1909.jpg|right|thumb|Gondal, 1909]]
[[File:Baroda state 1909.jpg|right|thumb|Gondal, 1909]]
[[File:Clock tower in Gondal.jpg|thumb|Clock tower]]
[[File:Clock tower in Gondal.jpg|thumb|Clock tower]]
The Naulakha Palace is the oldest extant palace in Gondal, dating back to the 17th century.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/destination/details/6/208 |title=Gondal, City State, Rajkot, Tourism Hubs, Gujarat, India |website=Gujarat Tourism |access-date=12 June 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.discoveredindia.com/gujarat/attractions/palaces/navlakha-palace-gondal.htm |title=Navlakha Palace Gondal |newspaper=discoveredindia.com |access-date=12 June 2016 }}</ref> It has [[stone carving]]s with [[jharokha]]s (enclosed balconies), a pillared courtyard, delicately carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase. The large chandelier-lit [[durbar (court)|durbar]] (court) contains stuffed [[leopard|panthers]], gilt wooden furniture, and antique mirrors. The Private Palace Museum has a display of silver caskets which were used to carry messages and gifts for Maharajah [[Bhagvatsinhji]] during his [[silver jubilee]] as ruler of Gondal.
The Naulakha Palace is the oldest extant palace in Gondal, dating back to the 17th century.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gujarattourism.com/destination/details/6/208 |title=Gondal, City State, Rajkot, Tourism Hubs, Gujarat, India |website=Gujarat Tourism |access-date=12 June 2016 |archive-date=14 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614153922/http://www.gujarattourism.com/destination/details/6/208 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.discoveredindia.com/gujarat/attractions/palaces/navlakha-palace-gondal.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011062103/http://www.discoveredindia.com/gujarat/attractions/palaces/navlakha-palace-gondal.htm |url-status=usurped |archive-date=11 October 2014 |title=Navlakha Palace Gondal |newspaper=discoveredindia.com |access-date=12 June 2016 }}</ref> It has [[stone carving]]s with [[jharokha]]s (enclosed balconies), a pillared courtyard, delicately carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase. The large chandelier-lit [[durbar (court)|durbar]] (court) contains stuffed [[leopard|panthers]], gilt wooden furniture, and antique mirrors. The Private Palace Museum has a display of silver caskets which were used to carry messages and gifts for Maharajah [[Bhagvatsinhji]] during his [[silver jubilee]] as ruler of Gondal.


The Riverside Palace was built in 1875 by Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji for his son, Yuvraj Bhojraji. It has groomed lawns and gardens, a living room furnished in typical [[colonial style]] with chandelier, antique wooden furniture and sofas, and an "Indian room" decorated with [[beadwork]], [[brass]]ware and paintings. The palace has now become a heritage hotel.<ref>[http://heritagehotels.com/heritage-hotels-india/gujarat.htm Heritage Hotels in Gujarat]</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heritagepalacesgondal.com/ |title=History of Gondal |newspaper=Heritagepalacesgondal.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref>
The Riverside Palace was built in 1875 by Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji for his son, Yuvraj Bhojraji. It has groomed lawns and gardens, a living room furnished in typical [[colonial style]] with chandelier, antique wooden furniture and sofas, and an "Indian room" decorated with [[beadwork]], [[brass]]ware and paintings. The palace has now become a heritage hotel.<ref>[http://heritagehotels.com/heritage-hotels-india/gujarat.htm Heritage Hotels in Gujarat]</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heritagepalacesgondal.com/ |title=History of Gondal |newspaper=Heritagepalacesgondal.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref>


The Huzoor Palace is the current royal residence. One wing of this palace, called the Orchard palace, is open to the public. It was built as an annex of the Huzoor Palace in the late 19th century to host guests of the Maharajas. The property gets its name from the fruit [[orchard]]s, lawns and gardens that surround the palace.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heritagepalacesgondal.com/orchard_palace.htm |title=Orchard Palace |newspaper=Heritagepalacesgondal.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref>
The Huzoor Palace is the current royal residence. One wing of this palace, called the Orchard palace, is open to the public. It was built as an annex of the Huzoor Palace in the late 19th century to host guests of the Maharajas. The property gets its name from the fruit [[orchard]]s, lawns and gardens that surround the palace.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heritagepalacesgondal.com/orchard_palace.htm |title=Orchard Palace |newspaper=Heritagepalacesgondal.com |access-date=12 June 2016 |archive-date=6 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160606100414/http://www.heritagepalacesgondal.com/orchard_palace.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref>


Orchard Palace was converted into a seven-room heritage hotel decorated with 1930s–1940s art deco furniture, antiques and handicrafts. The garden contains many types of birds, including a large population of peacocks. The Room of Miniatures is a sitting room with a collection of [[Indian painting|miniature painting]]s, brass, and furniture. One of the highlights of the palace is the Rail Saloon of the royal family of Gondal which has been converted into a suite with a drawing room, dining room and bedroom. The royal garages have an extensive collection of [[vintage car|vintage]] and [[classic car]]s.<ref>[http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Hot-wheels-Vintage-cars-from-Gondal-to-elegantly-parade-in-Mumbai/359502/ Hot wheels: Vintage cars from Gondal to elegantly parade in Mumbai] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014204647/http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Hot-wheels-Vintage-cars-from-Gondal-to-elegantly-parade-in-Mumbai/359502/ |date=14 October 2008 }} ''[[Indian Express]]'', 10 September 2008.</ref>
Orchard Palace was converted into a seven-room heritage hotel decorated with 1930s–1940s art deco furniture, antiques and handicrafts. The garden contains many types of birds, including a large population of peacocks. The Room of Miniatures is a sitting room with a collection of [[Indian painting|miniature painting]]s, brass, and furniture. One of the highlights of the palace is the Rail Saloon of the royal family of Gondal which has been converted into a suite with a drawing room, dining room and bedroom. The royal garages have an extensive collection of [[vintage car|vintage]] and [[classic car]]s.<ref>[http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Hot-wheels-Vintage-cars-from-Gondal-to-elegantly-parade-in-Mumbai/359502/ Hot wheels: Vintage cars from Gondal to elegantly parade in Mumbai] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081014204647/http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/Hot-wheels-Vintage-cars-from-Gondal-to-elegantly-parade-in-Mumbai/359502/ |date=14 October 2008 }} ''[[Indian Express]]'', 10 September 2008.</ref>
Line 75: Line 77:
|-
|-
|1648–1713
|1648–1713
|Sagramji I Kumbhoji (b. 1634 – d. 1713)
|Sagramji I Kumbhoji (1634–1713)
|-
|-
|1713–1752
|1713–1752
|Haloji Sagramji (b. 1676 – d. 1752)
|Haloji Sagramji (1676–1752)
|-
|-
|1752–1789
|1752–1789
|Kumbhoji II Haloji (b. 1712 – d. 1789)
|Kumbhoji II Haloji (1712–1789)
|-
|-
|1789–1791
|1789–1791
|Muluji Sagramji (Malubhai Sahib) (b. 1754 – d. 1791)
|Muluji Sagramji (Malubhai Sahib) (1754–1791)
|-
|-
|1791–1800
|1791–1800
|Dajibhai Muluji (b. 1775 – d. 1800)
|Dajibhai Muluji (1775–1800)
|-
|-
|1800–1812
|1800–1812
|Devaji Sagramji (Devabhai Sahib) (b. 1769 – d. 1812)
|Devaji Sagramji (Devabhai Sahib) (1769–1812)
|-
|-
|1812–1814
|1812–1814
|Nathuji Devaji (Nathubhai Sahib) (d. 1814)
|Nathuji Devaji (Nathubhai Sahib) (died 1814)
|-
|-
|1814–1821
|1814–1821
|Kanuji Devaji (b. ... – d. 1821)
|Kanuji Devaji (died 1821)
|-
|-
|1821–1841
|1821–1841
|Chandrasimhji Devaji (Motibhai Sahib) (b. 1797 – d. 1841)
|Chandrasimhji Devaji (Motibhai Sahib) (1797–1841)
|-
|-
|1841–1851
|1841–1851
|Bhanabhai Devaji (d. 1851)
|Bhanabhai Devaji (died 1851)
|-
|-
|1851–1866
|1851–1866
|Sagramji II Devaji (Sagramji Bhanabhai) (b. 1822 – d. 1869)
|Sagramji II Devaji (Sagramji Bhanabhai) (1822–1869)
|-
|-
|1866 – 14 Dec 1869
|1866 – 14 December 1869
|Sagramji II Devaji (s.a.)
|Sagramji II Devaji (s.a.)
|-
|-
|14 Dec 1869 – 10 Mar 1944
|14 December 1869 – 10 March 1944
|[[Bhagvatsinhji|Bhagwatsimhji Sagramsimhji]] (b. 1865 – d. 1944)
|[[Bhagvatsinhji|Bhagwatsimhji Sagramsimhji]] (1865–1944)
(from 15 Feb 1887, Sir [[Bhagvatsinhji|Bhagwatsimhji Sagramsimhji]])
(from 15 February 1887, Sir [[Bhagvatsinhji|Bhagwatsimhji Sagramsimhji]])
(personal style Maharaja from 1 Jan 1888)
(personal style Maharaja from 1 January 1888)
|-
|-
|10 Mar 1944 – 15 Aug 1947
|10 March 1944 – 15 August 1947
|Bhojrajji Bhagwatsimhji (b. 1883 – d. 1952)
|Bhojrajji Bhagwatsimhji (1883–1952)
(personal style Maharaja)
(personal style Maharaja)
|}
|}
Line 125: Line 127:
The people of the Gondal, as in most of the other parts of [[Saurashtra (region)|Saurashtra]], are considered highly spiritual.{{Citation needed|date=February 2012}}
The people of the Gondal, as in most of the other parts of [[Saurashtra (region)|Saurashtra]], are considered highly spiritual.{{Citation needed|date=February 2012}}


The temples in Gondal include Akshar Mandir and Deri (BAPS Swaminarayan), Shri Trikamrayji Haveli, Shri Madanmohanji ni haveli (Moti Haveli), Shri Ramji Mandir, Bhuvneshwari Mandir (one of the few temples in India dedicated to this Goddess), Ashapura Mata, Sureshwar Mahadev, Dhareshwar Mahadev, Kashi Vishwanath Mahadev and the massive Ambey Dham (Ramanath) Temple.<ref>http://sriramanathdham.org/</ref> There is also another Pushtimargiya Haveli and Swaminarayan temple in the city centre.
The temples in Gondal include Akshar Mandir and Deri (BAPS Swaminarayan), Shri Trikamrayji Haveli, Shri Madanmohanji ni haveli (Moti Haveli), Shri Ramji Mandir, Bhuvneshwari Mandir (one of the few temples in India dedicated to this Goddess), Ashapura Mata, Sureshwar Mahadev, Dhareshwar Mahadev, Kashi Vishwanath Mahadev and the massive Ambey Dham (Ramanath) Temple.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://sriramanathdham.org/ |title=Welcome – the "Children of Immortality"!! |access-date=16 February 2017 |archive-date=25 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525224746/http://sriramanathdham.org/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> There is also another Pushtimargiya Haveli and Swaminarayan temple in the city centre.


The [[Akshar Deri]], housed within the Akshar Mandir, is the [[Samadhi (shrine)|samadhi sthan]] (memorial site) of [[Gunatitanand Swami]], who was a [[paramhansa]] of [[Swaminarayan]], and is accepted as the first spiritual successor of Swaminarayan by the [[Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha]] (BAPS).<ref>{{cite book|last=Waghorne|first=Joanne|title=Gods Of Flesh. Gods Of Stone|year=1985|publisher=Columbia University Press|location=United States|isbn=978-0-231-10777-8|pages=147}}</ref> This temple is visited by people from all over the world.
The [[Akshar Deri]], housed within the Akshar Mandir, is the [[Samadhi (shrine)|samadhi sthan]] (memorial site) of [[Gunatitanand Swami]], who was a [[paramhansa]] of [[Swaminarayan]], and is accepted as the first spiritual successor of Swaminarayan by the [[Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha]] (BAPS).<ref>{{cite book|last=Waghorne|first=Joanne|title=Gods Of Flesh. Gods Of Stone|year=1985|publisher=Columbia University Press|location=United States|isbn=978-0-231-10777-8|pages=147}}</ref> This temple is visited by people from all over the world.


Dasi Jeevan Mandir (temple) in Ghoghavadar, {{Convert|6|km|mi|abbr=on}} from Gondal, is a site where [[:gu: દાસી જીવણ|Saint Dasi Jeevan]] lived.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://sureshbjani.wordpress.com/2011/06/08/jivan_saheb/ |title=દાસી જીવણ, Dasi Jivan |newspaper= sureshbjani.wordpress.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref> Every [[Diwali in Gujarat|Gujarati New Year]] day, people gather to celebrate the holy saint's birthday.
Dasi Jeevan Mandir (temple) in Ghoghavadar, {{Convert|6|km|mi|abbr=on}} from Gondal, is a site where [[:gu: દાસી જીવણ|Saint Dasi Jeevan]] lived.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://sureshbjani.wordpress.com/2011/06/08/jivan_saheb/ |title=દાસી જીવણ, Dasi Jivan |newspaper= sureshbjani.wordpress.com |date=8 June 2011 |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref> Every [[Diwali in Gujarat|Gujarati New Year]] day, people gather to celebrate the holy saint's birthday.


Anand Ashrama, located easterly to Gondal close to Ghoghavadar, is a research center for folklore and Gujarati literature.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.anand-ashram.com/ |title=Anand Ashram, Ghoghavadar |newspaper=Anand-ashram.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref>
Anand Ashrama, located easterly to Gondal close to Ghoghavadar, is a research center for folklore and Gujarati literature.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.anand-ashram.com/ |title=Anand Ashram, Ghoghavadar |newspaper=Anand-ashram.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref>


==Geography==
==Geography==
Gondal is located at {{Coord|21.97|N|70.8|E|}}.<ref>[http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/9/Gondal.html Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Gondal]</ref> It has an average elevation of 132&nbsp;metres (433&nbsp;feet).
Gondal is located at {{Coord|21.97|N|70.8|E|}}.<ref>[https://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/09/Gondal.html Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Gondal]</ref> It has an average elevation of 132&nbsp;metres (433&nbsp;feet).


==Demographics==
==Demographics==
Line 155: Line 157:
|38,541
|38,541
|-
|-
|Children (0-6)
|Children (0–6)
|12,037
|12,037
|6,548
|6,548
Line 166: Line 168:
|-
|-
|Sex ratio
|Sex ratio
|924
|
|
|
|108.17
|100
|}
|}


==Culture and economy==
==Culture and economy==
[[File:Gondal - Swaminarayan Temple, Gujarat - India (3417857288).jpg|thumb|Swaminarayan Temple, Gondal]]
[[File:Gondal - Swaminarayan Temple, Gujarat - India (3417857288).jpg|thumb|Swaminarayan Temple, Gondal]]
Gondal has a history of art and literature. It is the birthplace of poets, singers and artists like [[Pankaj Udhas]], [[Manhar Udhas]], [[Nirmal Udhas]], [[Dhumketu (writer)|Dhumketu]], [[Makarand Dave]], [[Jay Vasavada]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gujaratishow.com/2014/03/kathiyawad-airlines-sairam-dave.html |title=Kathiyawad Airlines – Sairam Dave – Gujarati Jokes |newspaper=Gujaratishow.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://music.ovi.com/in/en/nm/Product/Sairam-Dave/Lekhak-Atul-Pandya-Agharo-Kalakar/54978795 |title=Archived copy |access-date=6 July 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714114228/http://music.ovi.com/in/en/nm/Product/Sairam-Dave/Lekhak-Atul-Pandya-Agharo-Kalakar/54978795 |archive-date=14 July 2014 }}</ref> The first Gujarati dictionary was compiled by the Chief Education Officer, Chandrakant Bechardas Patel in Gondal with the financial support of Sir Bhagvatsighji Maharaj. The Patel family was awarded the king's summer palace on Palace Road called Geeta Bhuvan and its surrounding lands for their life's work. This all-encompassing Gujarati dictionary called the Bhagvat GoMandal is available on both the App Store & Play Store in form of an app<ref>direct descendant/left coast native/lifelong Wikipedia supporter</ref>
Gondal has a history of art and literature. It is the birthplace of poets, singers and artists like [[Pankaj Udhas]], [[Manhar Udhas]], [[Nirmal Udhas]], [[Dhumketu (writer)|Dhumketu]], [[Makarand Dave]], [[Jay Vasavada]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.gujaratishow.com/2014/03/kathiyawad-airlines-sairam-dave.html |title=Kathiyawad Airlines – Sairam Dave – Gujarati Jokes |newspaper=Gujaratishow.com |access-date= 12 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://music.ovi.com/in/en/nm/Product/Sairam-Dave/Lekhak-Atul-Pandya-Agharo-Kalakar/54978795 |title=Download Lekhak Atul Pandya Agharo Kalakar by Sairam Dave on Nokia Music |access-date=6 July 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714114228/http://music.ovi.com/in/en/nm/Product/Sairam-Dave/Lekhak-Atul-Pandya-Agharo-Kalakar/54978795 |archive-date=14 July 2014 }}</ref>


Janmashtami is a major and important festival and usually a week-long holiday. The 'Janmashtami Lok Mela' is organized for five to seven days at Sangramsinhji highschool ground (college chowk) to celebrate Janmashtami.{{Citation needed|date=November 2015}}
Janmashtami is a major and important festival and usually a week-long holiday. The 'Janmashtami Lok Mela' is organized for five to seven days at Sangramsinhji highschool ground (college chowk) to celebrate Janmashtami.{{Citation needed|date=November 2015}}
Line 183: Line 185:
Transportation from other parts of the country is primarily by road and rail. [[Gondal railway station]], under the [[Bhavnagar railway division]], serves Gondal city.
Transportation from other parts of the country is primarily by road and rail. [[Gondal railway station]], under the [[Bhavnagar railway division]], serves Gondal city.


The main residential areas in Gondal include Bhojrajpara, G. Parekh Street, Chunara Street, Khandheria Street, Gundala Street, Mahadevwadi, Housing Board, Station Plot, Gundala Road, Yoginagar, Kashi Vishwanath road, Kadavani Nagar, Shajanand Nagar, Khodiyar Nagar and Gokul Dham. The most upscale residential areas in Gondal are Bhojrajpara, Kailashbag and Radha-Krishna Nagar, which are near to the bus station and the main market. Gardens and parks include Tulsi Baugh and Ashapura Gardens.
The main residential areas in Gondal include Bhojrajpara, G. Parekh Street, Khandheria Street, Gundala Street, Mahadevwadi, Housing Board, Station Plot, Gundala Road, Yoginagar, Kashi Vishwanath road, Kadavani Nagar, Shajanand Nagar, Khodiyar Nagar and Gokul Dham. The most upscale residential areas in Gondal are Bhojrajpara and Kailashbag, which are near to the bus station and the main market. Gardens and parks include Tulsi Baugh and Ashapura Gardens.


The schools in Gondal include St. Mary's School, Vidhya mandir, Patel Boarding, Akshar Purshotam Swami Narayan High School, and Highway Gurukul. Monghiba High school is one of the oldest girls' schools in the region.{{Citation needed|date=November 2015}}
The schools in Gondal include St. Mary's School, Vidhya mandir, Patel Boarding, Akshar Purshotam Swami Narayan High School, and Highway Gurukul. Monghiba High school is one of the oldest girls' schools in the region.{{Citation needed|date=November 2015}}
Line 200: Line 202:
==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
{{Wikisource1911Enc|Gondal}}
{{EB1911 poster|Gondal}}
* {{cite book |title=A Short History of Gondal|author=Harikrishna Laishankar Dave|publisher=Education Society's Press|year=1867|pages=[https://archive.org/details/ashorthistorygo00davegoog/page/n213 202] |url=https://archive.org/details/ashorthistorygo00davegoog |quote=Gondal.}}
* {{cite book |title=A Short History of Gondal|author=Harikrishna Laishankar Dave|publisher=Education Society's Press|year=1867|pages=[https://archive.org/details/ashorthistorygo00davegoog/page/n213 202] |url=https://archive.org/details/ashorthistorygo00davegoog |quote=Gondal.}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category|Gondal, India}}
{{Commons category|Gondal, India}}
* [http://www.marugondal.com/ History and all information of Gondal http://www.marugondal.com]
* [http://www.marugondal.com/ History and all information of Gondal]
* [http://www.gondalonline.com/ Portal of Gondal Business www.gondalonline.com]
* [http://www.gondalonline.com/ Portal of Gondal Business]
* [http://www.heritagepalacesgondal.com/ Portal of Gondal Heritage Palaces www.heritagepalacesgondal.com]
* [http://www.heritagepalacesgondal.com/ Portal of Gondal Heritage Palaces]


{{Rajkot district}}
{{Rajkot district}}
Line 214: Line 216:


[[Category:Cities and towns in Rajkot district]]
[[Category:Cities and towns in Rajkot district]]
[[Category:Former capital cities in India]]
[[Category:Former capitals in India]]
[[Category:1634 establishments in India]]
[[Category:1634 establishments in India]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1634]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1634]]

Latest revision as of 04:24, 14 March 2026

Gondal
City
View of Gondal
View of Gondal
Gondal is located in Gujarat
Gondal
Gondal
Location in Gujarat, India
Gondal is located in India
Gondal
Gondal
Gondal (India)
Coordinates: 21°57′29″N 70°47′42″E / 21.958°N 70.795°E / 21.958; 70.795
CountryIndia
StateGujarat
DistrictRajkot
Founded byKumbhoji I Jadeja
Area
 • Total74.48 km2 (28.76 sq mi)
Elevation
132 m (433 ft)
Population
 (2011)
 • Total173,353[1]
 • Rank30th (Gujarat)
Languages
 • OfficialGujarati
Time zoneUTC+5:30 (IST)
STD code02825
Vehicle registrationGJ 03
Websitewww.gondalnagarpalika.org

Gondal is a city of about 115,000 residents[2] and a municipality of about 175,000 in the Rajkot district of the Indian state of Gujarat. Gondal village was one of the eight first-class princely states of Kathiawar Agency, Bombay Presidency in British India.

History[edit | edit source]

See also: Gondal State
Maharaja Bhagvatsinhji of Gondal, 1911

Gondal is mentioned in texts like the Ain-i-Akbari (written in the reign of Akbar) and Mirat-i-Ahmadi as a Vaghela state in Sorath (Saurashtra). The Gondal State in Kathiawar Agency was founded in 1634 by Kumbhojī I from the Jadeja dynasty, who received Ardoi and other villages from his father Merāmanjī.[3] Kumbhoji's fourth descendant, Kumbhoji IV, increased the size of the state by acquiring parganas such as Dhoraji, Upleta, and Sarai.[3]

Sir Bhagwant Singhji, who reigned from 1888 until his death in 1944, was noted for tax reforms, compulsory education for women, and also for stopping the practice of purdah (female seclusion) at a time when the royal households of India were known for this tradition.[4]

In 1901, Gondal city had a population of 19,592, and was a stop on the branch line between Rajkot and Jetalsar on the Viramgam–Rajkot and Rajkot–Somnath lines.[5]

The ancestors of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan, belong to Paneli village in Gondal state.

Historical places[edit | edit source]

Detail of Naulakha Palace
Gondal, 1909
Clock tower

The Naulakha Palace is the oldest extant palace in Gondal, dating back to the 17th century.[6][7] It has stone carvings with jharokhas (enclosed balconies), a pillared courtyard, delicately carved arches, and a unique spiral staircase. The large chandelier-lit durbar (court) contains stuffed panthers, gilt wooden furniture, and antique mirrors. The Private Palace Museum has a display of silver caskets which were used to carry messages and gifts for Maharajah Bhagvatsinhji during his silver jubilee as ruler of Gondal.

The Riverside Palace was built in 1875 by Maharajah Bhagwat Sinhji for his son, Yuvraj Bhojraji. It has groomed lawns and gardens, a living room furnished in typical colonial style with chandelier, antique wooden furniture and sofas, and an "Indian room" decorated with beadwork, brassware and paintings. The palace has now become a heritage hotel.[8][9]

The Huzoor Palace is the current royal residence. One wing of this palace, called the Orchard palace, is open to the public. It was built as an annex of the Huzoor Palace in the late 19th century to host guests of the Maharajas. The property gets its name from the fruit orchards, lawns and gardens that surround the palace.[10]

Orchard Palace was converted into a seven-room heritage hotel decorated with 1930s–1940s art deco furniture, antiques and handicrafts. The garden contains many types of birds, including a large population of peacocks. The Room of Miniatures is a sitting room with a collection of miniature paintings, brass, and furniture. One of the highlights of the palace is the Rail Saloon of the royal family of Gondal which has been converted into a suite with a drawing room, dining room and bedroom. The royal garages have an extensive collection of vintage and classic cars.[11]

Thakurs[edit | edit source]

The rulers of Gondal were Thakurs of the Jadeja dynasty who had the right to an 11-gun salute. They bore the title 'Thakur Sahib' from 1866 onwards.

Tenure Name (birth-death)
1648–1713 Sagramji I Kumbhoji (1634–1713)
1713–1752 Haloji Sagramji (1676–1752)
1752–1789 Kumbhoji II Haloji (1712–1789)
1789–1791 Muluji Sagramji (Malubhai Sahib) (1754–1791)
1791–1800 Dajibhai Muluji (1775–1800)
1800–1812 Devaji Sagramji (Devabhai Sahib) (1769–1812)
1812–1814 Nathuji Devaji (Nathubhai Sahib) (died 1814)
1814–1821 Kanuji Devaji (died 1821)
1821–1841 Chandrasimhji Devaji (Motibhai Sahib) (1797–1841)
1841–1851 Bhanabhai Devaji (died 1851)
1851–1866 Sagramji II Devaji (Sagramji Bhanabhai) (1822–1869)
1866 – 14 December 1869 Sagramji II Devaji (s.a.)
14 December 1869 – 10 March 1944 Bhagwatsimhji Sagramsimhji (1865–1944)

(from 15 February 1887, Sir Bhagwatsimhji Sagramsimhji) (personal style Maharaja from 1 January 1888)

10 March 1944 – 15 August 1947 Bhojrajji Bhagwatsimhji (1883–1952)

(personal style Maharaja)

Religious sites[edit | edit source]

Swaminarayan Temple

The people of the Gondal, as in most of the other parts of Saurashtra, are considered highly spiritual.[citation needed]

The temples in Gondal include Akshar Mandir and Deri (BAPS Swaminarayan), Shri Trikamrayji Haveli, Shri Madanmohanji ni haveli (Moti Haveli), Shri Ramji Mandir, Bhuvneshwari Mandir (one of the few temples in India dedicated to this Goddess), Ashapura Mata, Sureshwar Mahadev, Dhareshwar Mahadev, Kashi Vishwanath Mahadev and the massive Ambey Dham (Ramanath) Temple.[12] There is also another Pushtimargiya Haveli and Swaminarayan temple in the city centre.

The Akshar Deri, housed within the Akshar Mandir, is the samadhi sthan (memorial site) of Gunatitanand Swami, who was a paramhansa of Swaminarayan, and is accepted as the first spiritual successor of Swaminarayan by the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS).[13] This temple is visited by people from all over the world.

Dasi Jeevan Mandir (temple) in Ghoghavadar, 6 km (3.7 mi) from Gondal, is a site where Saint Dasi Jeevan lived.[14] Every Gujarati New Year day, people gather to celebrate the holy saint's birthday.

Anand Ashrama, located easterly to Gondal close to Ghoghavadar, is a research center for folklore and Gujarati literature.[15]

Geography[edit | edit source]

Gondal is located at 21°58′N 70°48′E / 21.97°N 70.8°E / 21.97; 70.8.[16] It has an average elevation of 132 metres (433 feet).

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Total Population of Gondal City as per last census was 113,000 Approx. while the Average Literacy rate is 84.3% much higher than the national average of 59% . The Demographic Distribution of the Gondal city as per 2011 census is as mentioned below :

Gondal City Demographics, 2011
Particulars Total Males Females
City population 112,197 58,300 53,897
Literates 84,394 45,853 38,541
Children (0–6) 12,037 6,548 5,489
Avg literacy 84.26% 88.60% 79.62%
Sex ratio 108.17 100

Culture and economy[edit | edit source]

Swaminarayan Temple, Gondal

Gondal has a history of art and literature. It is the birthplace of poets, singers and artists like Pankaj Udhas, Manhar Udhas, Nirmal Udhas, Dhumketu, Makarand Dave, Jay Vasavada.[17][18]

Janmashtami is a major and important festival and usually a week-long holiday. The 'Janmashtami Lok Mela' is organized for five to seven days at Sangramsinhji highschool ground (college chowk) to celebrate Janmashtami.[citation needed]

The largest factors in the economy of Gondal are oil mills and marketing yards. Gondal is the largest producer of ground nut oil in Gujarat, with 300–500 oil mills.[citation needed] The marketing yard is one of the biggest in the Kathiawar region and the second largest in Gujarat, after Unjha.[citation needed] Gondal is growing in the cotton trade with the development of many ginning and pressing industries.[citation needed]

In addition, there are two Ayurvedic (alternative) medicine manufacturers in Gondal that export overseas[citation needed], as well as businesses involved in jewelry design, timber trading, and hardware manufacturing. Farming is important in the outskirts of Gondal despite a shortage of water.[citation needed] The markets for most commodities in Gondal are in two areas known as Nani Bazaar (small market) and Moti Bazaar (large market). The main business areas in Gondal include Town Hall, Gundala Street, Nani Bazaar, Moti Bazaar, Kadiyalane, Bus stand road, and Kumbharwada.

Transportation from other parts of the country is primarily by road and rail. Gondal railway station, under the Bhavnagar railway division, serves Gondal city.

The main residential areas in Gondal include Bhojrajpara, G. Parekh Street, Khandheria Street, Gundala Street, Mahadevwadi, Housing Board, Station Plot, Gundala Road, Yoginagar, Kashi Vishwanath road, Kadavani Nagar, Shajanand Nagar, Khodiyar Nagar and Gokul Dham. The most upscale residential areas in Gondal are Bhojrajpara and Kailashbag, which are near to the bus station and the main market. Gardens and parks include Tulsi Baugh and Ashapura Gardens.

The schools in Gondal include St. Mary's School, Vidhya mandir, Patel Boarding, Akshar Purshotam Swami Narayan High School, and Highway Gurukul. Monghiba High school is one of the oldest girls' schools in the region.[citation needed]

Other landmarks in Gondal are the Center Theater, the Roma Theater, College Chowk, and the Victory Cinema.[citation needed]

In 1947, many people who spoke Memoni migrated to Pakistan.[citation needed]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Census of India: 2011". Census Commission of India. Retrieved 13 May 2020.
  2. ↑ "Census of India: 2011". Census Commission of India. Retrieved 3 July 2016.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Gondal state The Imperial Gazetteer of India, 1908. v. 12, p. 319
  4. ↑ "Purdah Women". Time, 24 November 1930.
  5. ↑ Gondal Town The Imperial Gazetteer of India, 1908, v. 12, p. 321
  6. ↑ "Gondal, City State, Rajkot, Tourism Hubs, Gujarat, India". Gujarat Tourism. Archived from the original on 14 June 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2016.
  7. ↑ "Navlakha Palace Gondal". discoveredindia.com. Archived from the original on 11 October 2014. Retrieved 12 June 2016.
  8. ↑ Heritage Hotels in Gujarat
  9. ↑ "History of Gondal". Heritagepalacesgondal.com. Retrieved 12 June 2016.
  10. ↑ "Orchard Palace". Heritagepalacesgondal.com. Archived from the original on 6 June 2016. Retrieved 12 June 2016.
  11. ↑ Hot wheels: Vintage cars from Gondal to elegantly parade in Mumbai Archived 14 October 2008 at the Wayback Machine Indian Express, 10 September 2008.
  12. ↑ "Welcome – the "Children of Immortality"!!". Archived from the original on 25 May 2017. Retrieved 16 February 2017.
  13. ↑ Waghorne, Joanne (1985). Gods Of Flesh. Gods Of Stone. United States: Columbia University Press. p. 147. ISBN 978-0-231-10777-8.
  14. ↑ "દાસી જીવણ, Dasi Jivan". sureshbjani.wordpress.com. 8 June 2011. Retrieved 12 June 2016.
  15. ↑ "Anand Ashram, Ghoghavadar". Anand-ashram.com. Retrieved 12 June 2016.
  16. ↑ Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Gondal
  17. ↑ "Kathiyawad Airlines – Sairam Dave – Gujarati Jokes". Gujaratishow.com. Retrieved 12 June 2016.
  18. ↑ "Download Lekhak Atul Pandya Agharo Kalakar by Sairam Dave on Nokia Music". Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 6 July 2014.

External links[edit | edit source]

Retrieved from "https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Gondal,_India&oldid=454119"
Discover more