Bhati

Bhati Rajputs are a prominent Chandravanshi Rajput clan claiming descent from Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu. Historically rooted in the Jaisalmer region of Rajasthan, the Maharajas of Jaisalmer trace their ancestry to Jaitsimha, a notable Bhati ruler.

The strategic location of Jaisalmer along ancient trade routes made it a key halting point for camel caravans traveling between India and regions such as Central Asia, Egypt, Arabia, and Persia. This positioning greatly contributed to the Bhatis’ economic significance and regional influence in the Thar Desert.

The Bhatti Samvat, a traditional era beginning in AD 623, is linked to the clan’s cultural memory and historical chronology. Throughout their history, the Bhatis were engaged in conflicts and alliances, notably resisting Muslim invasions while also navigating diplomatic relations.

Despite pressures from imperial powers such as the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals, the Bhatis managed to retain their autonomy and distinct identity, especially through the survival of the princely state of Jaisalmer, which persisted until India's independence.

Renowned for their horsemanship, marksmanship, and martial prowess, the Bhati Rajputs extended their influence beyond Rajasthan into Punjab, Sindh, and even parts of Afghanistan. The city of Ghazni is associated with a Bhati warrior, and the Bhati Gate in Lahore stands as a historical testament to their enduring legacy.