Bundi

Tehsil Bundi, District Bundi, Rajasthan

Bundi (Hindi - बूंदी) is a city and a municipality of approximately 88,000 inhabitants (2001) in the Hadoti region of Rajasthan state in northwest India. It is of particular architectural note for its ornate forts, palaces, and stepwell reservoirs known as baoris. It is the administrative headquarters of Bundi District.

History of Bundi:
Bundi, an ancient Rajput town deeply plunged in history is said to be named after Bunda, a Meena chieftain. Bundi and Kota were once a single principality ruled by the Hada Chauhans, an offshoot of the famous clan of Chauhans who ruled Delhi and Ajmer. After the defeat of Prithviraj Chauhan by Sultan Mohammed Ghori in 1193, the Chauhan nobles sought sanctuary in Mewar. They were welcomed and proved allies to the Rana. Yet, some young warriors ventured on their own, overpowered the Meena and Bhil tribals of the Chambal valley and established the kingdom of Hadavati or Hadoti. Later on, the two branches of the 'Hadas' formed two seperate states, Kota and Bundi on either side of the river Chambal.

The beautiful Bundi town is nestled in a verdent valley, surrounded by the Aravali hills on three sides and is enclosed by huge walls with four gateways. In the centre of the town is a picturesque lake, adding to the beauty of Bundi. A medieval fortress stands sentinel to this city - a mute witness to history and time. Within the ramparts are majestic palaces, haveli's, temples and intricately carved cenotaphs, Bundi is also ver well known for its exquisite paintings and murals.