Tarikh-I-Sorath: A History of the Provinces of Sorath and Halar in Kathiawad

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"A History of the Provinces of Sorath and Halar in Kathiawad" by Ranchodji Amarji, the Diwan (chief minister) of Junagadh, offers an invaluable look into the history, geography, and political life of the Kathiawad region (now part of modern-day Gujarat, India). Written in the 19th century, the book reflects Amarji's unique position and insight as a high-ranking official in the princely state of Junagadh, and it serves as both a historical and a cultural document.

The work is primarily focused on two key provinces within Kathiäwäd-Sorath and Halar. Sorath was one of the oldest regions, traditionally linked with Junagadh, while Halar, centered on Jamnagar, became notable for its influential Jadeja Rajput rulers. Amarji describes the rich cultural heritage, customs, and social structures within these provinces, shedding light on the indigenous communities, including the Kathi, Ahir, and Charan peoples. His writing also highlights the complicated relationships between the ruling elites and the British, who had established paramountcy in India, influencing governance and diplomacy.

The book provides detailed descriptions of various forts, temples, and notable landmarks, as well as accounts of dynastic conflicts, treaties, and alliances that shaped the region. It also includes information on local festivals, artistic traditions, and economic practices, such as agriculture and trade, which sustained the communities of Kathiawad.

Ranchodji Amarji (1768-1841) was a prominent author and the chief minister, or diwan, of the princely state of Junagadh, which was governed by the Babi dynasty in present-day Gujarat, India. His tenure as diwan was marked by significant contributions to the administration and cultural development of Junagadh.

As an author and scholar, Ranchodji was deeply involved in promoting literature, philosophy, and the arts. He is known for his works in Gujarati, particularly for his role in fostering the development of Gujarati literature during a time when the regional languages and literatures were gaining prominence. His writings reflect a blend of administrative insights and philosophical reflections, shedding light on governance and ethics, while also preserving the cultural heritage of his time.

THE TARIKH-I-SORATH, or History of Sorath and Halar, forming the western portion of Kathiawad, was compiled by Ranchodji Amarji, Divân or prime minister of Junagadh, about 1825, and gives a pretty circumstantial account of the factions and broils that disturbed these provinces during the lifetime of the author and his father. As a genuine native history, written by a man who took a leading part in most of the events he describes, and who was quite independent of English influence, it ought to possess some interest for all classes of readers.

The Persian MS. of the work was brought to my notice by the late Mr. Gokalji Jhâlâ, then Divân.of Junagadh, on my visit to that place in May 1869. Mr. Manilal Govindrâm, now of the Bhavanagar High School, also obtained for me a loan of a translation of it into Gujarati, and made a careful version from it into English. When this was about complete I got a second Persian MS., and submitted both MSS. and the translation of the Gujarati version to Mr. E. Rehatsek, who very kindly produced another translation, more in accordance with the Persian original than Mr. Manilal's founded on the Gujarati only.