Pratihar
Pratihar or Parihar refers to a prominent Rajput dynasty and primarily recognized as the Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty, which ruled large parts of northern India from the 8th to the 11th centuries CE. They are also listed among the 36 royal races of Rajputs.
The Gurjara-Pratiharas rose to prominence in the 8th century and played a vital role in defending India against early Arab invasions. They were renowned for their military strength and for their involvement in the tripartite struggle with the Pala and Rashtrakuta dynasties for control over northern India. Their empire extended across vast regions of northern and western India, with their capitals located initially at Ujjain and later at Kannauj. Notable rulers include Nagabhata I, the founder of the dynasty, and Mihira Bhoja (Bhoja I), one of the most celebrated Pratihara kings.
Origin
The origin of the Pratihara Rajputs is traditionally traced to Lakshmana, the younger brother of Lord Rama of Ayodhya, placing them in the Suryavanshi (Solar) lineage of Rajputs. The name Pratihar, meaning "gatekeeper", symbolizes Lakshmana's role as the guardian of Rama and Sita.
This lineage is supported by the Ghatiyala inscriptions (also known as Ghantiyala inscriptions) found near Jodhpur, Rajasthan. These inscriptions provide significant historical evidence about the political, social, and religious policies of the Gurjara-Pratiharas and affirm their identity as Ikshvaku Suryavanshi Kshatriyas.
Sub-clans
The sub-clans of Parihar Rajputs are as follows:
- Inda
- Ramawat
- Juda
- Lulapota
- Nadhat
- Sindhal
- Narauni
Architecture
The Pratiharas were prolific temple builders, and their architecture is evident in numerous structures, including the Teli ka Mandir in Gwalior Fort, the Ghateshwara Temple in Baroli, and various temples around Gwalior and Osian. The Malwa Pratihara temples are distinguished by a low short plinth, a simple and relatively stunted spire, and walls decorated with a single band of sculptured niches.
The Naresar temples in Gwalior have a square sanctum with a curvilinear tri-ratha, and are noted as the earliest temples in this style of architecture. The Teli-Ka-Mandir in Gwalior, the Mahadeva Temple in Amrol, the Kutakeshvara Temple in Pathari, and the Jain temples in Deogarh are all described as outstanding examples of Pratihara temple style.