A New Genealogy of the Rāṭhodas
By V. Raghavan
Summary
Drawing on newly discovered documents, this article reconstructs a revised genealogy of the Rāṭhodas (Rathod) dynasty of western India. The traditional genealogy of the clan traces its origins to the mythical hero Rāṭha and lists a succession of chiefs who ruled parts of Marwar. The newly found palm‑leaf manuscript provides additional names and clarifies relationships among branches of the family. The author compares the new genealogy with earlier accounts, noting where they agree and where they diverge. Particular attention is paid to the chronology of the early rulers and the circumstances under which they moved from Kanyakubja to the desert region. The article also examines inscriptions, coins and bardic traditions to corroborate the new data. It concludes that the Rathod clan’s origins lie in the early medieval migration of a group of Kshatriyas, and that their later prominence in Rajasthan was built on alliances with other Rajput houses.
Conclusion
The revised genealogy corrects several errors in earlier histories and underscores the importance of integrating manuscript evidence with epigraphy and oral tradition. By situating the Rathod lineage within broader patterns of migration and state formation, the article enriches our understanding of Rajput history.