Parmara or Ponwar

The Paramara (or Parmar) are a Rajput clan in South Asia that traces its lineage to the mythological Agnivansha dynasty. This clan was associated with the Paramara dynasty, which ruled the Malwa region in Central India.

History of Parmars

There are three main theories regarding the origin of the Paramara (or Parmar) clan. The most widely accepted theory suggests that the Paramaras, along with the Chauhans, the Pratiharas (Parihars), and the Solankis (Chalukyas), were one of the four Agnikula ("fire-born") Rajput clans. According to this belief, they trace their origin to a sacrificial fire.

Another theory posits that the Parmar clan was originally a tribe from central India that gained political prominence as feudatories of the Rashtrakutas, eventually emerging as a Rajput clan. This theory is supported by ancient Pali Buddhist inscriptions found in various regions of Rajasthan, which mention the Taxak or Tak race. The Mori tribe, believed to be descendants of the Taxaks, ruled Chittor for an extended period. The Taxak Mori are said to have been the early rulers of Chittor, and generations later, the Guhilots supplanted them. During this time, the Tak clan from Asirgarh also played a prominent role as defenders of Chittor. These chieftains are notably mentioned in the poems of Chand Bardai, where one such Tak of Asir is referred to as the "Standard Bearer."

A third theory suggests that the Parmaras were originally part of the Rashtrakutas, later branching off from them (Rathores) to form a separate Rajput clan, declaring their own distinct identity.

Regardless of their origin, the Paramaras established themselves as rulers of Malwa in central India in the 9th century CE, with Dhar as their capital. They held significant political influence during their rule until 1305, when the Malwa region was conquered by Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, marking the decline of their political power.

After India gained independence in 1947, the Parmar royalty ceded their political powers to the central government in New Delhi. In return, they received substantial financial grants known as the "Privy Purse," which allowed them to maintain their lifestyle and the upkeep of their royal palaces, forts, and architectural heritage. However, this Privy Purse was abolished by the Indian government under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, ending the royal privileges of the Parmar family.