History of the Vaghela Rajput Dynasty
Etymology and Origins
The term Vaghela means "chase of the tiger." The Vaghelas were based in Dholka and served as a major sub-clan of the Solanki Rajputs.
King Raj Solanki had two wives and two sons:
- First Queen (sister of King Samantsinh Chavada of Patan) was the mother of Mulraj Solanki, king of Patan.
- Second Queen (sister of Lakhaji Jadeja / Lakho Fulani) was the mother of Rakhyat, who married Raymati and had a son named Vyaghradeo.
After Rakhyat passed away, his wife prepared to become a Sati. Their infant son was protected by Vyaghreshvari Mataji in the Aatkot jungle, earning him the name Vyaghradeo. His descendants became known as the Vaghela / Baghel / Waghela clan.
Rise to Power in Gujarat
The Vaghelas expanded their rule across Gujarat, northern Rajasthan, western Madhya Pradesh, and northern Maharashtra. Lawan Prasad Vaghela, a general under Bhimdev II Solanki, gained control over Dhavalgadh (modern Dholka). During later years, Lawan Prasad rebelled, seizing Dhavalgadh, Dhandhuka, and parts of southern Gujarat.
The final overthrow of the Solanki rulers in Anhilwar was executed by Vishaldev Vaghela, grandson of Lawan Prasad. However, Vishaldev's father, Vir Dhaval Vaghela, had already significantly increased his territory and military power, making him considered by many historians as the first actual Vaghela ruler of Gujarat.
Key Rulers
- Vishaldev Vaghela: Celebrated for winning military campaigns against Malwa and subduing rebelling Solanki factions. He was also a great patron of arts, poetry, and religion.
- Arjundev and Sarangdev: Succeeded Vishaldev and enjoyed relatively peaceful, prosperous reigns.
- Karandev II (Karan 'Ghelo'): The last Vaghela ruler of Anhilwar and the final Rajput sovereign to control most of Gujarat and Saurashtra.
Conflict with Delhi and Fall of Anhilwar
Two years after ascending the throne, Karandev faced the invading forces of Ala-ud-Din Khilji, led by general Alaf Khan. Despite a brave Rajput resistance, Anhilwar fell, was plundered, and Alaf Khan subsequently destroyed the grand Somnath temple at Prabhas Pattan.
Grieving the loss of his kingdom, Karandev retreated to Devgadh in the Deccan, refusing to surrender. He attempted to gather forces to fight back but lost the war. During the escape, Queen Kamaladevi and their daughter Devaldevi were separated (with the queen passing away), while Karandev and Devaldevi reached Devgadh safely.
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