Maharaja Suraj Mal, Founder of Bharatpur
In 1733 AD, Raja Badan Singh’s adopted son, Suraj Mal had shown signs of promise, when he captured the fort of Bharatpur from Khemkaran, the rival Chief, whom he killed and thus laid the foundation of Bharatpur City.
Maharaja Suraj Mal displayed immense courage and carved a niche for himself in the midst of political disorder. Gathering around him fiercely marital Jat peasants, he went from one success to another. He accompanied Emperor Muhammed Shah against Ali Muhammed Ruhela and in 1748 AD; at the battle of Bagru he led the Jaipur vanguard against the Marathas. He also defeated the commander-in-chief of the Mugal emperor. Despite being a very religious man he was secular.
Place to Visit
Keoladeo Ghana National Park
This bird paradise acquired its name- Keoladeo Because of the existence of the Keoladeo temple of Lord Siva. After the name of this temple the ladke is called “Ghana ” Keoladeo. Gahana being the vernacular synonym for dense forest. It was know as the bust duck shooting resort during the British reign, but was declared a reserve for birds in 956 and later upgraded to a Natinla Park. UNESCO had listed it as a world heritage site.
Government Museum
The building-Kamara Khas, within the fort, has been converted into a museum displaying in rich collection of antiquities, exquisite sculptures and some ancient inscriptions. The sculptures speak volumes about the art and culture which flourished here in those times and is typical of this area. The inscriptions are of immense historical value and help in tracing the royal lineage and local life.
Ganga Mandir (Temple)
The construction of this big temple was started by Maharaja Balwant Singh in 1845. The construction was carried out by a unique method, where all persons employed in the service of the state, were asked to donate one month’s salary of their service or any raise in pay towards the shrine. The Temple a beautiful piece of architecture.
Laxman Mandir (Temple)
This temple is famous for beautiful stone work with elaborate carvings from doorways to ceilings, pillars, walls and arches. The temple is dedicated to Laxaman, brother of Lord Rama.