Bundi

Bundi, in southeastern Rajasthan, is the historic capital of the former Bundi State in the Hadoti region. Early habitation traces go back to the Stone Age, but the town’s recorded history begins with local Meena and Bhil chiefs; tradition says it was called Bunda-ka-Nal, after a Meena ruler named Bunda. In the 13th–14th centuries, Hada Chauhan Rajputs—an offshoot of the great Chauhan clan—seized the area. Around 1342, Rao Deva Hada captured Bundi from the Meenas and founded the Hada principality, renaming the wider tract Hadoti, “land of the Hadas.” Bundi became its capital and seat of the Maharaos, who later also controlled Kota and surrounding districts. The Hadas were prominent Mughal allies; rulers like Rao Surjan Singh negotiated with Akbar after the 1568 siege of Ranthambore, retaining considerable autonomy. Over time, Bundi developed grand landmarks such as Taragarh Fort, hillside palaces, stepwells (notably Raniji ki Baori) and a celebrated school of miniature painting. In 1818 Bundi became a British-protected princely state and remained so until its ruler signed the Instrument of Accession to India in 1949. Today, Bundi town is a district headquarters, known as one of Rajasthan’s most atmospheric smaller cities, rich in medieval architecture and fresco-covered havelis.