Gwalior Fort
Gwalior fort is one of the beautiful and famous forts of India. Writer Taj-Ul-Maseer writes about this fort. “Fast Wind cannot touch its climax and fast clouds cannot cast their shadow in its PARKOTAS. On its Vakshsthal there are written stories of life/death, Sanyog-Viyog, bravery and cowardice. This is situated 110 Km. south of Agra. This stony hillock where this stands is made of peculiar strong stone. This fort is more than 300 ft. high. This is 3 K. M. long from North to South and, 600 to 3000 ft broad from east to west.

On the eastern side of the historic fort Raja Man Singh got constructed a beautiful palace. Outside the palace there are 6 beautiful high gates. Almost all have praised its architect 6 places have been built on this fort and Gujri Mahal is one of the spots worth seeing. There are two routes to climb up this fort. First Gwalior gate is in the east and second in the west is Urvai gate. Apart from them there were 3 more gates which led inside of them Thotha por and Radha Gargaj gates and third is in the south which have been closed now.

5 gates have to be crossed to reach the fort from the eastern side. First gate is ALAMGIR DARWAZA which is now commonly known as Gwalior Gate. Second is BADALGARH or HINDOLA gate, Third is Ganesh Dwar, fourth is LAXMAN Dwar and 5th is Hathiapore. Alamgir Darwaza was got constructed in 1660 by Motimid Khan Governor of this fort in the regime of Aurangzeb. Badalgarh gate is a beautiful example of stone craft which was constructed in 15th Century which is known in the name of Badal Singh brother of Raja Kalyan Mal Tomar.

Buildings At The Fort
About half a dozen palaces exist on this historic fort of them some were constructed by Raja Man Singh and some by Muslim rulers. Manmandir which exhibits good craftmanship was got constructed by Raja Mansingh in 1516. The eastern front portion is 300feet long and 80 feet wide. Over this building are six big tombs. This is an example of great craftsman ship of stone carving. Southern portion of Man Mandir is 150feet long and 50-60 feet high; over this 3 BURJIYAN though over 500 years old still shine. Idols of Animals-Birds, Trees and Human beings are made in the alls of the building which add to its beauty.

Gujri Mahal
The second palace is Gujri Mahal. Raja Mansingh got it constructed for his wife MRIGNAYANI whom he loved very much. This palace too was constructed when Man Mandir was constructed i. e. around 1515-17. On all the four sides rooms are constructed in Gujri Mahal. There is no such room which does not exhibit example of high art. In this palace water was brought by earthen pipe for Rani “MRIGNAYANI”. Other 2 palaces are Karan Mahal and second Vikram Mahal. On seeing them common man is led to appreciate SANSKRAT VABHAV of this area. There are two more palaces Jahangir Mahal and Shah Jahan Mahal. There were many a mandir. Of them a few are still safe and are examples of beautiful craftmanship. Of them SAS BAHU KA MANDIR, TELE KA MANDIR, JAIN IDOLS and Chaturbhuj Mandir are worth seeing. In this great fort there are many a tank which have been carved from the stones. Of them Johar Talab, Apart from this in this historic big fort of Gwalior there are many a BETHAK and building of European style where there is Scindia School now a days.

Jain Idols
Jain Idols have been carved in the stone walls of the fort. Of them some idols from their carving reveal that they came into being from the year 1440 to 1472. Of them many are religious idols some are in standing and some are in sitting posture. GHOS SAHIB’s TOMB On the east of the town at Hajira, there is the tomb of GOS SAHIB. This is an example of infancy art of Mughal art. It is square in construction and on all the four sides there are Burj; on their ends are small Gumbad. On all the four sides there are thick and fine JALEES and on the top of the building there is a big Gumbad which was once decorates with Shining blue stones. Badayun in his book MUNTKHABUL-TAWAREEKH has written about Gos Sahib that he was a great sant and also Guru of Mughal Emperor Akbar and Tansen.

Tomb Of Tansen
Near the Tomb of Mohd. Gos there is the tomb of famous singer TANSEN. On the roof of the building there is encarved Gumbad which has carving in it. Every year “Tansen Samaroh” is held here. This tomb is very simple but there is handicraft work of beautiful jalis.

Samadhi Of Rani Laxmi Bai
In the first Independence movement Virangana Laxmi Bai who shaked the British Empire, her Samadhi is in the campus of Phool Bagh. eight metalled / tall statue of Rani Laxmi Bai is situated here which is a source of inspiration to our youth. This SAMADHI reminds us of the martyors of freedom. In the honor and memory of the Rani every year a Fair is held here on 18th of June.

Phool Bagh
At a short distance from Railway Station there exists Garden in Phool Bagh. In the Phool Bagh campus there exist Residential palace, Museum, and other buildings. This Garden was constructed by late Madho Rao Scindia. In 1922 Princess of Wales inaugurated it on his arrival at Gwalior. The only zoo of Gwalior city is situated in this campus. One temple, one Mosque, one Gurudwara, Theosophical Lodge and prayer place of Both religion exist here. Constructions were done by the then government as an example of religious equality.

Jaivilas Palace
JAIVILAS PALACE was constructed for the residence of Maharaja Scindia at the cost of about Rs. 19 lac during 1861 to 1874. This is made in a big garden decorated by shady trees and beautiful roads. On all the four sides there are lakes and lawns and flower beds which make the sight very attractive. The area of the Palace is 12, 04, 771 square feet. Michael Filoz was its designer and constructor who intelligently prepared its design on the basis of PILAZEZ of Italy.

Moti Mahal
Moti Mahal is one of the worth seeing palaces which was once Secretariat of Madhya Bharat Govt. At present there are many offices of the present Govt. colored glass work has been done very beautifully in some of its rooms and there are many wall paintings which exhibit Hindu Purans, RAG RAGNYON, Maharaja’s sittings as Darbar and various rally etc. of Maharaja Jiwaji Rao.

Museum
Of the main museums of this place are Municipal Corporation Museum, Maharaja Jiwaji Rao Scindia Museum, and Gujri Mahal Museum situated on the ground floor of the fort are the chief ones. Museum of Nagar Nigam was got constructed by EX Maharaj Madhorao Scindia in 1902. This Museum contains Pashan Pratimayen, china clay, glass ivory, instruments of warfare, old coins, animals, birds, artistic pictures, samples of prastar shilp handicraft and apart from the there are AVSHESH of India’s first Independence Movement. PURVA SAMACHAR KAKHSH VATHIKA, and PRASTAR KOSHAL VITHIKA, etc. are assembled in this museum. The Maharaja Jiwaji Rao musium was established in 1964 in one of the wing of Jaivilas Palace. PASHAN PRATIMAYAI, Metal Idols, coins, LAGHO CHITRAS, art of ivory, cut glass work are displayed in this Museum. The Most talked things are big FANOOS JHAAD, Napoleon table, SILVER TRAIN and Persian carpets.

N.C.C. Women Training School
NCC Women officer training school is one training sansthan of its kind in India which exists in Gwalior as a place of martyrdom of Rani Jhansi. Women from various states of India and islands come here for training of N. C. C. Its establishment is a pride of India. Its establishment took place in 1964 in historic building Ex Grand HOTEL. Till now Ten Thousand trainees have passed out in different various courses. There has been important contribution of State Government. In its establishment in Gwalior. The commanding Officer of this establishment is a Brigadier and there are LT. COL., Major and four other Women Officers.

Laxmibai Physical Education Deemed University
The fame of this establishment in Gwalior is as far and wide as that of sports establishment of Patiala. This establishment imparts physical training to men and women not only of India but also to the foreingners. For continuous training facilities this establishment is progressing continuously. Apart form the routine training National or International sports in this university accord a special status. Such institution impart importance to Gwalior.

Sas-bahu Ka Mandir
This temple is 32 meters long and 22 meters wide. There is Vishal Vedi caltar in the centre of this temple. In the 3 directions there are Mandaps and Devalayai is in 4th direction. There is hardly a place where the work of carving does not exist. At the gate of the temple idols of Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh, etc. have been displayed in the stones. Mandir of SAS-BAHU is small in size and is beautiful are example of Mid India VASTUKALA. There is Vishnu Mandir. The front portion of stone is protruded in the front from where the sight seeing of three sides is possible.

Gurudwara Data Bandi Chod
In the memory of Sixth Guru of Sikhs Sant Har Govind Singh ji Bhavya Gurdwara has been constructed at Gwalior fort. When Jahangir was throned at Delhi in 1605, Shahzada Khusro had revolted against Jahangir. In Taran Taran Khusro sought blessings from the 5th Guru of Sikhs Guru Arjun Dev Ji. Data Bandi chod Gurdwara has been fully constructed of marble. This is a grand and huge Gurdwara. colored Glasses decorate the main building. The kalashs at the gumbads are made of gold. There are also 2 tanks in it. Recital of Guru Granth Sahub makes the surroundings atmosphere peaceful and sacred. Peace is here. On Amavasya there are 4 special prayers, religious songs and keertan; in which many a follower participate. This occasion is transformed into afair. Food is always distributed here in form of Langer. Baba Uttam singh and Baba Amar Singh started its construction in 1970 with great zeal and enthusiasm. Tourists visiting Gwalior visit this Gurdwara positively.

On 30th July 1993 Sant Bawa Amar singh Ji passed away for heavenly abode while serving the humanity. Such Sants have rarely been observed by me on this planet. Bawa Amar singh ji had served the humanity in the past 2 decades and was popular in all classes of Society.

The Scindia School Fort
Scindia School was established at the historic fort. Indias famous public School was established by Late Madho Rao Scindia in 1879 in the name of “SARDAR SCHOOL” in the nature’s lap. This is now known as SCINDIA SCHOOL in place of SARDAR-SCHOOL. At present students from various states and foreigners are being educated. The school is Continuously progressing and now this is one of the special schools of India.

Tele Ka Mandir
This temple was constructed by pratihar Rajas. This is known as Teli Ka Mandir. Of the various old historic worth seeing temples of Gwalior, Teli ka Mandir ranks highest. This is said to have been constructed in 9th century. This temple is constructed in southern Indian style and is the combination of Dravian and Aryan style. The real name of this temple has been Telang Mandir. Its height is about 100 feet. The main gate of Teli Ka Mandir was brought in 1881 from else where and fixed here.

Mata Mandir
In the east of Suraj Kund there is Mata Devi Ka Mandir at the Gwalior Fort. From the point of view of construction, it seems to be of 12th Century. This Satapathya art is alike Sas Bahu ka Mandir which is very attractive. Here many people come to see it.

Surajkund
A square Kund constructed at the fort is known as Suraj Kund. It was constructed in 6th Century. It is said that Ashram of Galib Rishi was here. The Founder of Gwalior Durg (fort) Suraj Sen got this temple constructed.

Urvai Ghati
In 1527 when Babar came to Gwalior Durg he was very keen to see the beauty of Urvai Ghati, he was full of joy. In his Baburnama he has mentioned “This unique Ghati which is situate in the west of Durg. There are two big tanks in between this. On all the four sides of these tanks which are within ADVA, here 20-25 wells have been dug made from where water for irrigation is taken. They have planted quite a few trees and plants of flowers. This is a beautiful place. ”

Dargah Khwaja Kanoon Sahib
Khwaja kanoon Sahib Nagauri was resident of Marwad. He came to Gwalior in 1481. Later he started living here. His full name as carved on his tomb was Saiyed Saiyeeduddin Kanoon Rehmat Ullah Aleh chishtiya. But he was popular here with name as Khwaja kanoon. Hazrat Khwaja kanoon Sahib left for heavenly abode in 940 Hijri i. e. in between 121 -25. One of the carvings on the inner parts of the tombs reveals”Have belief that in 940 Hijri Khwaja kanoon Sahib attained aternar sprit. Visiters with full faith and avichal Shradha & firm confidence visit for 40 days and you will fulfil your aim/desire. ” The then historians have written much about khwaja Sahib. He was a sufi Sant of the highest order. Even today people of various religious faiths daily often their prayers & AKIDAT.

Veer Sawarkar Sarovar
Near Achleshwar Mahadev and Maharani Laxmi Bai Arts and Commerce college there is a sarowar which is previously known as Katora Tal, which is now a days known as veer Sawarkar Sarovar. There stands an idol of veer Sawarkar of human size which is surrounded by water and shady trees. This Sarovar is a visiting place for tourists.

Maharani Laxmi Bai College
Rulers of Gwalior State took great interest in education of this place. As a result 100 years ago a beautiful building named as Victoria School was constructed which is now known as MALBA MAHAVIDYALAI. This college is the biggest college of Jiwaji University of M. P. from where well known personalities received their education. Well known writer Dr. Vrindavan Lal Verma, famous poet Jaanisar Akhtar, EX. Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Bajpai etc. have been its students.

Sanatan Dharam Mandir
One of famous temples of Gwalior Sanatan Dharam Mandir is on the top. This occupies huge complex. Lord Shri Krishan and beautiful idols of other gods are there in it. This is situated in front of Chamber of Commerce.

Krishan Mandir In Chhatri
Chhatri Mandir is situated opposite to Jaivilas Palace and nearby Savarkar Sarovar. This temple is managed by the scindia trust. In its garden there exist Chhataris of Late Jiwaji Rao Scindia and his Mother Gajra Raja Scindia made of marble which are the source of attraction for tourists.

Jiyaji Chowk (bada)
The busiest place of Gwalior city is Maharaj Bada. In its center there is a garden. In its center there is a huge statue of Jiyaji Rao Scindia made of marble. This idol is fixed in a high Marble Plateform. On all the four sides shopping centres are situated. General post office, 2 huge Buildings of State Bank of India. Town Hall and Victoria Markets etc. in Baada Campus are worth seeing special feature examples of beautiful establishments. Special feature of this market is that there are 7 entries to it.

Chhatris Of Scindia Dynasty
There is a big Collection of Chatris of Scindia Dynasty in Chatri Bazar. These Chatris are very imporant from the point of view of art. House Constructed on all the four sides of these chatris has minimised their beauty. Chatris have been constructed with pink and white stones. Chatris of Jiwaji Rao Scindia, Daulat Rao Scindia and Janko ji Rao Scindia are worth seeing these chatris. Here carved Elephant , Horses and Tigers construction are beautiful. For want of their proper care, these chatris are being damaged. Responsible civilians and Government must pay attention in this direction.

Sun Temple
From the time immemorial worshiping god sun has special place in Gwalior. Mono/of Scindia dynasty rulers has been the Surya and Sheshnaag. From this it is established that its dynasty is Naag-Kul Bhushan. Birla on 23rd January 1988 gifted Surya Mandir(the sun temple)to the people of Gwalior Pink stone has been used in its constructions. In the center on a chabutra is the very beautiful idol of SURYA Bhagwan. In the center (GARBHGREH) a special device has been adopted for reaching the sun -rays on idol of Surya Bhagwan.

Dev Kho
This place is situated about 16KMs away from Gwalior on Lashkar Tigra road. The natural beauty of this place is undescribeable. Because of thick forest various beautiful birds and wild animals can be seen here. DEVKHO is surrounded with natural atmosphere which is amiable. On hillock there is beautiful temple of Lord Shiva. Late MadhoRao Scindia used to visit this place and think over important problems of the state. The lovely note of Jharna is very much pleasant which on hearing a person starts singing. In the whole area full of natural beauty leke Deo Kho is rarely found. Dev Kho is quite near to Gwalior city where Govt. have constructed good approach roads which have been laid after cutting the hillocks with KIRINAS. ON both the sides beautiful trees and plants have been planted.

Tighra Dam
Tighra Dam is situated 18 Kms away south-west of Lashkar. This a beautiful place. Hilly stones slopes have sufficient strength to hold water in it. Gwalior gets its drinking water from Tigra water works. This has becomea beautiful picnic spot during rainy season.

Padmavati (pawaya)
Of many tourist spots Name of PAWAYA is illustrious. Sometimes back there must have been a beautiful Royal city here. On the basis of arachaeolgical evidence available so far this is the old city of PADMAVATI. There is mention of padmavati in Vishnupuran where in it is mentioned that this was the Capital of Nagas which is 30 KM away from Dabra & 80 KM far from Gwalior.

Peetambra Peeth (datia)
On the way to Jhansi, Datia town is 75 KM away from Gwalior. Datia is an important historic place. The immage of palaces etc. Have been mitigated. Datia has become prominent town because of peetambarapeeth. This is a place of Buglamukhi Devi. Peace has always been in this state. The courtyard of this temple is made of marble. Darshans of Devi in her various forms can be had here. The temple of Bhagvati is also here.

Baba Kapoor Sahib
In continuation of Madaria important Sufi Sant Shah Abdul Gafoor who is popularly known as Baba Kapur in Masses, amongst Sufis of mid Gwalior has a special status amongst sufis. Baba Kapur was sant of the down poor, laboures and professionals. Even today Dhobis (washerman) Labourers, bullocks -carters, cultivators when they start their daily work they call “OH BABA KAPUR”. His tomb is living combination of National unity.

Saturn Temple At Sanichara
The Saturn temple is situated at Sanichara, a railway station in Gwalior -Bhind Narrou gauge railway line. It is about 27 miles away from Gwalior. The history of this place is traced long back in the Ramayana and puran period. It is said that Hanuman after burning the lanka saw the Saturn standing before him with foded hands. He asked him what he wanted. On request of Saturn Hanuman provided him a place at Sanichara where he could be worshipped. Now people from all over country come to this place to worship and satisfy the Saturn to pacify the evil effects of the planet. as well as to seek his kindness to be healthy, wealthy and powerfull. On Every Somvati Amavasya a fair is held here. The present Saturn temple at sanichra was built by daulat Rao Scindia in 1825.

Other Tourist Spots
Nearby Gwalior in Morena District of Chambal Division there are many tourist spots of them Rani Kunti’s birth place KUNTALPURI Shiv temple of 10th Century, Kakanmath, from these Scindia Chatris, National park of Shivpuri, temples of Chanderi, tombs of Sultans, Shahi Masjid, Hava Mahal, Fort, Seven storeyed palace of Datia, Jahangir Mahal of Orcha nerar Jhansi, Ram Raja temple, Laxman temple, etc. are other tourist spots which are bound to influence you.

Art Tradition
Gwalior has its own cultural tradition. Music, idolcarving, and picture painting have a special status. Raja Jiyaji Rao Scindia of Scindia dynasty under “NAGPURWALA”picture painter got many beautiful paintings painted in Motimahal, Gorkhi Mandir and other palaces. In this work help of many picture painters was taken who were residing in Chitera oli Lashkar, who were from Bundelkhand and had come from Jhansi and settled here. The credit of starting picture painting in Gwalior goes to Shabihkar Daud Mian and Mukand Sakharam Bhaand. In Tiger caves of Gujri Mahal by seeing the wall paintings the live leness of art of chitrakala is revealed. Late shri L. S. Rajput, Rudrahnji, Umeshkumar and Shubakrishanrao have also been important. Pictur painting was contributed by them a great role in Gwalior. Shri Devlalikar the first Principal of Govt. Lalil Kakla University played an important role in evoking the art of Gwalior.

Late Shri L. S. Rajput was a good Picture painter and a teacher of arts; his paintings in exhibitions gained popularity in the whole country. In the same manner the name of Rudarhanji hardly needs any introduction. He too was a well known picture painter and idolmaker. In Padmavidyalaya of Gwalior his idols are worth seeing.

Shri Vimal Kumar, who was incharge of Kalavathika situated at padav for quite a long period did a great deal in the field of art. He by going ahead from traditional painting, established a special status. Similarly Madan Bhatnagar and Vishvaitra Vasvani established a special status in the field of art. Pictures of vasvani Hi gained popularity in the whole of country, Late D. P. Sharma also contributed a lot of to Gwalior. Fountains made by him can be seen at Akash Vani Tiraha, and Baradari crossing at Morar . In the field of latest picture painting and idol carving Gwalior youth has been infused by VIMALKUMAR. With the efforts of Vimal Kumar first National idol art camp organised in 1974 inspired the young idol makers and picture makers of Gwalior / prevailed like Dhumketu who in the field of national and international art in the whole of India. Of them the drawing of Shri. Usaf were rewarded in National and inter – national exhibitions. Anil Kumar is a signatory as a young picture painter. He is the youngest artist who made known by awards in the national exhibitions. Chandarsen Jadhav has been awarded a National award in the field of idol making. Vijay Shindhe is one of the identity in National and international exhibitions by his work of art. Shri Robin David, Sambhaji Rao Shindhe, AnwarKhan, Madhu Sudan Sharma, Santosh Jadiya, On prakash Jadiya, etc. are the product of art of Gwalior.

Shilp Koushal Of Gwalior
Shilp Koushal of Gwalior is famous for its beauty, historic development adorance and its liveliness. Big Jain idols, Sas Bahu Ka Mandir, Man Mandir, at the fort and other important idols and buidings are peculiar examples of Shilp koushal. Jalis of tomb of Ghos Sahib are fascinating. Availability of stone for the development of Shilp Koushal of Gwalior is of great significance. Different type of stones are available in different querries situated from the point of view of vastushilp. Banmor, Kuleth, Niravali, Shankarpur, Lanka, and Gangamalanpur querries situated in the north of Lashkar have been providing useful stone from shilp kala point of view from the time immerorial. In the field of art, cultural relations and in their development of Govt. and administration play a vital role. It has been an attribute to Gwalior that most rulers had been lovers and supporter of art. Under their supervision the art gained prominence. Artists were accorded desired results the Shilpis for attaining the highest aims presented desired results of Shilp Koushal in the form of Huge buildings parasads, and pashaan idols.

With their soft hands metalled cheni and hammer could carve the desired imaginations of the breast of hard stone. “Didaru Mistri””Shambhu”etc. well known Stone carvers and mistris of Gwalior gained sufficient fame. Motimahal and Jaivilas Palace have been constructed by these mistris. Stone obtained from Ganga Malanpur was carved by “Aladhin Mistri” into Paanch Batti Jhaad with Handi and four fanoos with rose flowers coming out which were presented by Gwalior to Late Rular Edward of Britain who expressed his happiness for their beauty. This fanoos tree is there even today in the archeological museum of London . Similerly gate constructed at Dafran Sarai Padav is also examplary. Shilpis of Gwalior not only in Gwalior they have presented beautiful examples of their are in great cities of India. The famous “Gateway of India”in Bombay and High Court Buildings in Lahore are the living examples.

A Few Known Stone Carvers Of Gwalior
1. Didaru Mistri Jaivilas Parasad
2. Saluru Mistri MotiMahal
3. Shambhu Mistri Victoria College
4. Gafoor Mistri Jal Vihar
5. Aladin Mistri Panch Patti Stone trees and Fanoos

Fairs Of Gwalior
There have been fairs in Gwalior which have promoted our Cultural Unity. On occasion of Raksha Bandhan there is a fair of Chakri in front of tomb of Ghos Sahib. In the end of monsoons in Sharad season there is festival of NAVRATRI which is celebrated with great pomp and show in various temples of Goddess Durga.

Gwalior Exhibition which starts in December is famous in the whole of country. This fair starts on 20th December for a period of one month. This is the biggest Exhibition of northern India. In the campus of fair there are about one thousand paccashops which are decorated in artistic manner by commercial sector and Govt. departments. Almost all states participate in this comercial fair in establishing their stalls. Businessmen from Jammu Kashmir to Madras – Kerala sell their goods. In this exhibition there are Kavi Sammelans and Mushayaras of India level. There are also wrestling and fire work features.

There is an elaborate fair at fort in Databandi Chod Gurdwara. In similar manner there is a fair of people of Jain Dharam religion at the fort. There is 3days Urs Shariff of Hazrat Mohd. Ghos Sahib in the month of Ramzan on 12, 13and 14. Similar Urs take place on the Tombs of Khwaja kanoon Sahib and Baba kapur Sahib. Urs of Mansoot Shah Sahib at tomb Situated at Bada and at tomb of Mir Badshah also are celebrated with great pomp and show. Jhule Lal fair of Sindhi society for one week is also very attractive. Similarly there is a three day Tansen Samaroh at tomb of Tansen. There are Nav-Ratri fairs at Mandre ki mata and Karoli wali Mata . At Achleshwar and Gupteshwar temples fairs are celebrated on Shivratri.

Glory Of Music
Abdul Fazal’s ‘AINE AKBARI’ contains detailed discussions that in the Darbar of akber out of 36 highest ranking singers 15 artists were of Gwalior parmpara of them one tansen SANGEET SAMRAT of behat nearby Gwalior hardly needs any introduction. similarly in reign of Aurangzeb. mugal Emperor Gwalior was undoubtedly centre of highest cultural centre because FAFIRULLAH KHAN GOVERNOR OF KASHMIR IN HIS Rag darpan a sangeet Granth has ascrided Gwalior as”SHIRAZ” of India.

In 15th century Raja Man singh of Tomar dynasty of Gwalior has been attributed giviing popularity to music in Gwalior. He invented Dhrupad style and established Vidyapeeth first of all in Gwalior and by establishing many creation of Dhrupads extended his great contribution to which has no parallel.

In another study in the first chapter of “FRISHTA- KA ITHAS” there is an interesting mention of development and progress of music. in this it is mentioned that Malchand. Whose poetry is famous in Malwa, brought music from south to Gwalior Here in it is mentioned that music was propagated by him in India.

Malchand remained in Gwalior for quite sometime and dynasty of Talingi in Gwalior music tradition is quite old and is for many centuries Tomar dynasty gave their helping hand in the develpment of music : this has historic background in. Tabat-e-Akbari written by khwaja Nazimudin Ahmed in wich there is mention of exchange of music books of Doongar Singh Tomar and Jain-ul Abedin of Kashmir.

Raja Man Singh was a great adjudge of art of music Rani Mrignaini was helpful to Raja Mansingh in his music recitals; Mrignaini has become ever lasting in music grafted in the name of Gujri, Bhahul Gujri, Maal Gujri and Mangal Gujri.

Raja Man Singh has credit for writing “MANKUTUHAL” a music book which was later translated by Fakirulla. Its pandulipi is available in Raja Library Rampur (U.P). This book contains the version of assemblance of Sangeet Samelan by Raja Man singh. This fact is corroborated by Abul Fajal. Bakhshu, Charju, Karan and Bhanu were the four artists of Mansingh. They had assembled such songs which were liked by all sections of society.

Especiality of Gwalior Gharana lies in its various Raagas viz, Dhrupud, Dhamar, Khyal, Tappa, Thumri, Dadra, Leda, Tarana, Triput and Tarang. Speciality of Man Singh’s music was that he accepted the popular music of Northern India grafted it into high class music.

Abdul Fajal in “Aine Akbara ” has written about poet Laurate Tansen that singer of his calibre was not there for thousands of years ago. Tansen was the first person, who in his Malhar had combined Komal Gandhar and Nishad; apart from this he was author of “MIAN KI TODI”.

K….tells us that after listening the music of Tansen, not only trees and hills started moving; even candls used to get lighted by his song is asserted by old musicians of Gwalior area. About him it is popularly famous ” VIDHANA YES JIYA JANE KE SESHAM DIYAI NA KAN, DHARA MERU SUB DOLI HAI TANSEN KI TAAN.”

Tansen
Gwalior ranks very high in history of music of our country During 1486 to 1518 in the regime of Raja Man singh Tomar, efforts for development of Dhrupad Gayan… …..had started. Credit of birth of drupad …..goes to Gwalior in this universe. Raja Man Singh Tomar himself was a good musician. He did a lot for advancement and its publicity. No Govt. or musician could be free of this debt.

There were many famous singers in the Darbar of Man Singh Tomar. Of them Baiju, Bakhshu, Charnu Bhagwan, Ghodu and Ram Das. Man Singh wrote MANKOTUHUL of which in 1673 in reign of Jahangir. its version in the name of “SANGEET DARPAN” was done by fakirullah.

The language of Dhrupad is that of Madhya Pradesh and Bundelkhand. This is the language.. . of nearby Gwalior Famous writer Rahul Sanskrityayan writes that it is imperative to know that Gwalior has been seat of literature, music and art for centuries Popularly Known as Brijbhasha was previously of Gwalior During reign of Akbar his Darbari & main singer Tansen earned name and fame in the entire universe Gwalior gets the credit for the birth place of this renowned singer. His tomb in Gwalior at Hajira is a sacred spot for thousands of tourists and singers.

Poet laureate Tansen was source of inspiration to Emperor Akbar even during war time. Tansen has also written for invincible army of the emperor. Apart from being a singer, he was also a poet and writer.

As per Tansen – “Ae Ayo, Ayo Ke Balwant ke Shah, Ayo chatrapati Akbar Saptadeep aur Asht Disa Nar Narender, Dhar Dhar Dare Nisi din kar aik chavipave. Varan na pava langa nagar Jahan Jitat firat sunyat hai Jalaludin Mohd ko Laskar Sah Humayan ko Nandan. Chandan aik teg Jodha Akbar “Tansen” ko hihal kijal Deeje kotin jarjari nazar Kamara.

During his long 50 years reign Akbar fought many wars. He used to take along Tansen in many wars. Gujrat was the biggest victory of Emperor Akbar’s period.This war was fought in 1957. At this occasion Tansen had accompanied the Emperor and had paid homage at the Tomp of his teacher Bakshu. Tansen was quite courageous. Many a time he used to utter as equal to him before Emperor Akbar. In one of his stanzas he has written- ” if Akber is Narpatti then Tansen is Taanpati” Before Akbar once Tansen had sung many stanzas in praise of Raja Ram Chandar. As per famous book “AINE AKBARI” in the Darbar of Akbar of very famous 36 musicians 16 were from Gwalior alone. Tansen was the prime of them all.

Mian Tansen……….. Gwalior
Baba Ram Das -do-
Subhan Khan -do-
Shri Gyan Kha -do-
Main Chand -do-
Vichitra Khan
Student of Tansen -do-
Mohd Khan -do-
Veer Mandal Khan -do-
Baj Bahadur, MalwaRuler -do-
Shihab Khan Gwalior Veena Vadak
Daud Dhodi Singer
Sarod Khan Gwalior Singer
Chonch Khan -do-
Parveen Khan Gwalior veena vadak
Surdas s/o Baba Ram Das Singer
Rang Sen Agra Singer
Shekh Davan Vadya Vadak
Rehmat Ullah Singer
Meer Sayaed Ali Mashhad Tambura Vadak
Ustaad Usof Hirat Sultan -do-
Hafiz Hussain -do-
Mashad Barham Ali Hirasat Singer
Sultan Hashim Mashhad Tambura Vadak
Ustad Mohd.Amin Tambura Vadak
Hafiz Khwaja, Ali Mashhoor Singer
Mir Abdullah Vadak
Peer Khurasan -do-
Nephew of Dawam Singer
Mohad hussen Tambura Vadak

Out of them 15 singers were student of school of Sangeet (Music) of Raja Man Singh. Man Singh had established first school of Music at Gwalior fort. Two Centuries after Tansen, Name of Gwalior was made famous by musicians Ustad Bade Mohd. Khan, Ustad Haddu Hassu Khan (Khayal Gayak), Baba Dixit, Bhau Sahib Guruji, Parbat Singh, Krishan Rao and Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan by their recitals.

Ustaad Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib
Most famous Sarod Vadak, Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib was amongst one of the top artists of the country. He was born in Gwalior in 1888. He got his education of Sarod vadan from his father Shri Nanne Khan. He got education of Hori, Dhrupad Pt. Ganeshi Lal Maharaj, 11th pedigree of Swami Maharaj Haridas Thakur r/o Mathura and Chukka ju and education of Sursingar was accorded by Akbar’s Navaratan Mishri Singh Binkar’s and Ustad vazeer Khan, ustad of nawab Rampur.

Sarodvad was brought into being by his ancestors. RABAB is music instrument of Kabul, which people used to play at the time of war. Over this Rode (TAANT) strings were fixed. In persian this “RABAB” is known as “SAROD”. Present Sarod is modified form of RABAB. Ghulam Bandgar Khan of Kabul used to visit India for trade of Horses. Once he left the trade and became Rasaledar in the army of Rewa Maharaj. His son Ghulam Ali Khan was having one small Rabab. He used to play it very nicely. On being pleased Rewa Mahara gave education of Hori, Dhrupad etc. for 19 years to Gulam Ali Khan and made him perfect and said that I have made your Sarod as Been. Now you can roam throughout India.

Ghulam Ali Khan after living in Banda, Farkhabad and Lucknow for some time, he joined service of Darbar of Maharaja Daulat Rao Scindia for Rs. 500/-p. m. Ghulam Ali Khan had 4 Sons. Of them 1st Jamma Khan went to Kabul. Hussain Khan was sitar player of Gwalior Maharaja. Third son Surad Khan made important changes in Sarod. It is he who used steel sheet on Sarod. Fourth Son Nanne Khan was in service of Maharaj Gwalior. Nanne Khan used to practise Sarod for a very long time and in practice 3 tabla players men were changed but he used to carry on his practice. He did not sleep for twenty two years Balwant Rao Khani, Masoorkar doctor, Balwant Rao puranik, Ram Bhau r/o Pune were his disciples. Nanne Khan Sahib had 3 sons; his 3rd son Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib stretched music tradition to its highest glory. Being influenced by his ability late Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia placed him in the highest seat in his Darbar that tradition was also followed by Maharaja Jiwaji Rao as well in year 1950 after being relieved from there he was appointed in Madhav Sangeet Mahavidhyalay. Padam Bhushan Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is the Youngest son of Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib who has glorified his name in the entire world. Ustad Hafiz ali khan sahib who has brought the name of Gwalior on the map of the World, on being influenced by his art he was honoured as AAFTAB-E-SAROD in the music conference of Bengal and Maharaja of Gwalior attributed him the title of “SANGEET RATANLANKAR”. After thr establishment of SANGEET NATAK ACADEMY in the very 1st year he was honoured by the highest award by Dr. Radha Krishnan, honourable president of India. He was also appointed as an Important member in Academy. In 1960 he was honoured with Padam Bhushan. In the decade of sixties Jhankar recital of Hafiz directions. He became very pupular with Shri Parbat Singh Mridangacharya. In the name of Hafiz Alio Khan Sahib a trust was formed 6 years before for the development of music and its training in Gwalior and Delhi at the instance of Ustad Amjad Ali Khan Sahib. The head quarter has been based in Jiwaji Ganj, Lashkar. With the help of this trust the young artists /interested in music are being sufficiently benefitted. Many well known personalities are members of this trust.

Dr. Krishna Rao Shankar Pandit
Dr. Krishna Rao Shankar Pandit, representative of Gwalior gharana and ex-great DARBARI of Gwalior state was born in Gwalior in 1894. His father Shri Shankar Rao Pandit was student of Ustad Haddu Khan and Nathu Khan Sahib. He got education of music from his father and teacher and gained popularity in Young age. Because of his hard practice Pandit ji was enlisted as one of the important KHYAL SINGERS.

Government of India honoured him with Padam Bhushan, there by acknowledged importance of KHYAL GAYAKI and Gwalior Gharana. The music which was started by Ustad Hassu Hadu Khan Sahib was further continued by Padit Ji. Being a singer Pt. ji performed a big and important job by laying foundation of SANGEET GANDHARV MAHAVIDYALAYA in 1914 which is now at the top and a famous and flourishing music university and is producing good artists to the society; this is being run by his youngest son Pandit Laxman Rao ji. In 1947 Maharaja of Gwalior honoured him by appointing him in MADHAV MUSIC UNIVERSITY. He established the propriety of music of GWALIOR GHARANA by undertaking sangeet tours with in the country and abroad; which is his great gift.

Last year Government of M. P. in his honour performed a big ceremonial function which remained in force for 1st year in the entire country. Centenary year has also been celebrated in the honour of Pandit Ji. Of his son Prof. Narain Rao pandit and Pandit Laxman Rao Pandit are good musicians. Pandit ji has also written books on TABLA, JAL TARANG, SITAR, etc. Of his students Vishnupant Chaudhary, Ram Chander Rao, Madho Rao Joshi and Datatre Jogelkar are the main.

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan
Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is the youngest son of Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. He was born on 9th October, 1945 in his old Parental house situated in Jiwaji Ganj, Gwalior. Amjad Sahib enjoyed blessings and affections of his father and Teacher, Hafiz Ali Khan Sahib. At the age of 7-8 years he had started playing sarod. Much of his father’s music style can be heard in his Sarod Vadan.

Today Amjad Ali Khan fame has spread in the entire world. In 1992 he was awarded PADAM BHUSHAN by Hon’ble President of India. He had been playing sarod since the age of 10 years in presence of Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the President of India, and forced the audience laud his recital in 1956. Since then he had started travelling in the country and abroad and by his exhaustive music performances he has made Sarod popular in the entire world. Ancestors of Amjad Sahib had migrated from Afganistan to Gwalior state. Sarod came into being on their account at the age of 15 years. Amjad Sahib had become popular in the whole of the country. Prayag Sangeet Samiti honoured him with title of SAROD SAMRAT and Government of India in 1975 awarded him with PADAM SHRI. He is such a Sarod Vadak of India that BBC made a film on him 20 years back. In 1989 Film Division of Govt. of India also made an hour’s documentary film on Amjad Ali Khan Sahib and Rrelayed it on Television national Network. Amjad Ali Khan Sahib born in Gwalior is such an artist who has highlighted the name of city in the entire universe and even today he is active and at his instance Jiwaji university has initiated an Academy on ‘TANSEN’ revence. Every pedigree of the city owes respect to this great artist of music.

Dr. Ishwar Chandra Karkare
HINDUSTANI SANGEET Sultan i-mosiqui ,sangeet prabhakar,fankar i- jahan, kalamani Dr.Ishwarchandra karkare ji was very small when his father -the great pleader “shiromani adhivakta” “sahitya ratna” sri. RAMCHANDRA Moreshwar KARKARE left he world. at present dr.I.C.Karkare ji {MBBS,MD,MA}is working as a medical officer he represents the nath -parampara he got his training of hindustani classical music from 1.pt.pandurang rao renichintalwar of gwalior gharana 2.pt.gangadhar bhagwat of gwalior gharana 3.pt.ram marathe of gwalior gharana and he got his training of spiritual music from yogiraj dr.m.harkare ji of nagpur Dr.I.C.Karkare is regarded as one of the most popular singer from gwalior at present.

History Of Gwalior
Progress of mankind had reached town life prior to 6000 to 2500 B.C. which is proved through 7 places of Madhya Pradesh, these places are Ujjain, Mandasaur, Maheshwar, Navdatoli, Jabalpur, and Sagar etc.The effigies found link it with Hadappa culture. In Gwalior area also there is evidence of such culture of pre and post period of that era. This area was beginning of 600 B.C who had snatched it from Shishu-Nagas Pawaya village which is near Dabara was the Capital of that era. paraviekh (Script) found in Pawaya. reveals that at that time the ruler of this place was Swamin Shivnadi in 3rd Century this area was ruled by nagas. It can be said on the basis of coins that Nag rulers of Padmavati were BHIM, SAKAND VASU, GRAHSPATI VIBHU, BHAVNAM, DEV, VAYAGHRA AND GANPATI Of them the name of Ganpati figures in the script of pillar of Sumadargupta at Allahabad. Padmavati’s Nag Raja was Bhar Shiv who originally hailed from Bundelkhand. one fort of the script depicts that Miharkuls reign was upto Gwalior where Matrachet built one sun temple (Surya Mandir).

One stone carving reveals that amongst other famous rulers Pritihar Bhoj had occupied area around Gwalior fort from 836 to 882. Mahmood Ghaznavi launched first attack on Gwalior fort in 1021-1022 and after 4 days siege then Rajput ruler gifted 35 elephants to him and signed peace treaty in 1195-96 Mohd Gori attacked Lahang Dev of Gwalior and after treaty, he entrusted the job of annexing Gwalior to malik Bahaudin Tughlak who after one and a half years fearful fight conquered Gwalior fort. Later Kutbudin Abek. Commander-in-chief of Mohd, Gori appointed lltutamish as Ameer of this fort. From the year 1486 to 1526 Tomars ruled Gwalior Man Singh was the main ruler of this dynasty. He adorned the hilly fort with new buildings. He devised many irrigation channels. Of them Motijheel is prominent Vikramaditya was the last ruler of this dynasty who was killed in 1526 in the battle of Panipat.

Babar the Mugal when he became the ruler Delhi visited Gwalior on 26th September, 1528.He has beautifully described this place in his “BABARNAMA” Akbar seized Gwalior and till mid 1754 Gwalior and its fort was part of Mugal kingdom. As per Aine Akbari there was an iron mine in Gwalior and this town was a Taxal, from where copper coins were produced issued. This area came in the hands of Scindias and till India’s independence this was ruled by Scindia dynasty, Jiwaji Rao Scindia was the last ruler.

Coin Age Of Gwalior
According to Dr.H.B.Maheshwari the evidences pertaining to the prevalence of coins as a from of currency in the civilized society of Gwalior region are discernible in coin minting by ruler of the Naga dynasty The surrounding areas of the prosperous cities like Kutwar (Kuntalpur) Pawaya(Padmawati) and Narwar. located in this region coins minted by the rulers of the Naga dynasty during 1st -2nd century A.D are obtained in abundance.

We came to know for the first time of the emergence of the city of Gwalior, in the records of 7th 8th century But the evidences regarding the establishment of a mint at Gwalior Fort are deduced From the Gwalior Mint, casting Pupees in Silver and Paisa in copper On these coins the Name of the mint was distinctly inscribed as “GWALIOR” Islam Shah Suri not only kept on casting-coins in the Gwalior mint but also glorified this city as the capital of India by making it the capital of his empire.

Gwalior mint attained the level of national importance when the Mugal Emperors. Akbar Jahangeer and Shahjahan Managed the coinage of gild Mohars along with the minting of Silver and copper coins among the last Mugal rulers. Aurangzeb, Mohammed Shah and Shah Alam kept on minting gold and silver coins in this mint till 1761.

After the second battle of Panipat Mahadji Shinde Symbolizing a new epoch with the advent of Marathas. continued to mint gold, silver and copper Coins, which bore his dispicious symbol i.e. the sword and the flower as mint mark of Gwalior. Daulat Rao, the next Ruler of the Shinde Dynasty, shifting his capital from Ujjain to Gwalior founded a new city which in course of time.Came to be known as Lashkar. He with a view to meet the requriements of his vast empire. Set up another mint at’Danaoli’ in the new city of Gwalior.

During the reign of Daulat Rao and that of the rulers posterior to him – Rani Baija Bai, Janko Rao and jiyaji Rao coins would be minted in more than 10 mints for use in Gwalior state it is important to note here that gold coins would be minted only in the mint of the Gwalior Fourt the other mints i.e those of Ujjain, narwar Sheopur, Shadausa, Bairagarh, ishagarh Chanderi and videsha, as the evidences show, were employed only for the minting of coins of silver and copper: Where as at Jawad and Rajoud, evidences concerning the coinage only of copper coins have been obtained so for.

After 1925 Gwalior state started to mint coins worth a pie, Half paisa and Two paisa respectively. in order to fulfil further requirements, coins authorised issued by British India would be used. Coins of Gwalior state were wNdly in use with in its territories till 1950.

Sufi Sant Mohd.ghos
Hazart MOhd.Ghos is at the highest peak amongst Sufis in connection with Salaris of Middle era of India. In his time he was being addressed as Ghos Mohd Ghos is author of many books of which.” GULZARE ABRAR” is very famous.This great Darvesh was bom on 6th Rajab Friday 907 hijri at Ghazipur. U.P As per intzan Ullah Sahab he is said to have born in 890 Hijri.

“Mankbe Ghosia” much talked about Granth of 16th Century written by Fazal Ali Satari has ascribed that the full Name Of Ghos Sahib was Hamid-ud-din Mohd.Ghos. Writer Fazal Ali, a contemporary of akbar in his book ” KULYATE GWALIOR ” WHICH is recognised as an old historic book on Gwalior, has written that except Gousal Box who was the last Ghos there had been no Ghos. came into being after him.it is crystal clear that Ghos is not the name but a tile, Bahrul Hayat. jawahar-e-Khamsa. Kabide Makhajan, Kanjul Vahida, etc.

As per Dr.Harihar Nivas Dwivedi Mohad Ghos visited Gwalior in 1523. After 4 years of his arrival. Afghan sardar Rahim Dad Sahib became the ruler of Gwalior. Being influenced by Ghos Sshib Mughal emperor Babar paid tributes of HAZRI & AKIDAT in honour of Ghos Sahib. This histroic fact has been established by almost all the historians.Mohad ghos was blessed with 3 sons and 2 daughters. His eidest son was sheikh Abdulah whose tomp is situated near his own tomp of meerHadi sharif are situated in the tomp of Ghos sahib, bibi Zahida and Bibi Malha were his daughters.

As per Barbare Akber, when Army general of Babar reached Gwalior with his forces, then Subedar of Gwalior tatar khan. refused to surrender Gwalior fort to him But Daulat Rao the next ruler of the shinde dynasty shifting his capital from Uijain to Gwalior, founded a new city which in course of time, came to be known as lashkar.He with a view to meet the requrementts of his vast empire. set up another mint at’danaoli’ in the new city of Gwalior.

Ghos Sahib, who used to offer prayer in Gwalior Fourt without any blood-shed or battle could persuade to hand over Gwalior fort to soidiers of Baber himself in his “BABARNAMA” has mentioned this occurrence in detail. This is said to be 933 Hijri 28th November.

Amongst Sattari sufi saints Ghos Sahib was such a saint whom emperors bowed their heads Humayun and Akbar be came his discipales. Famous poet Khadak Rai who was Bhat of Tomars has mentioned in his writngs that Akbar was very much devoted to Ghos Sahib and was so much influenced by Ghos sahib that on his advice Baber handed over reigns of India to Humayun. This fact can be read in book MADHUMALTI written by Mata Prased Gupta.

Afghan king sher-shan was annoyed with Ghos Sahib because of his blessings to Babur and Humanun and for this reason he had once sent an army to Gwalior to kill GHos Sahib. Once Ghos Sahib was compelled to kill 12000 soldiers of sher-shah Ghos sahib was pained at this incident Humayun had written a letter of apology to Ghos sahib for being harassed by sher-shah. This narrated at page 292 of “GULZAR-BABAR” Mohd Ghos was KAMIL of Mangal Stare, this pride could not be achieved by any other saint. Many historians have described- Akbar as disciple of Mohd Ghos Akbar, when he was not throned as Emperor, had come to Gwalior to meet Ghos Sahib in 966 Hijri After becoming emperor, he participated in MAHFILS of Ghos sahib and received his blessings The beautiful tomb of ghos sahib is an example of worid fame archaeological monument which was constructed in 38 years. This was constructed during the reign of Akbar by eldest son of Ghos Sahib under the supervision of Emperor of Emperor at the Government expense.

Ganga Das Ki Shala
Ganaga Das Ki Shala is one of the various construction in Gwalior Know For National Unity Sant Rameshwar Dayal Das of utila is Mahant of this place. As per his version when Emperor Akbar passed From GWALIOR in 16th Century. He met Gusai Shri Parmanand Swami.Akbar himself Came here and got Constructed a temple in 21.5 Bighas of land and 12 villages were attached to it as Jagir On this occasion.Emperror Akbar presented turban and sword to Mahant Ji as token of respeect.

In 1824 Mahant Ganga Das JI Was born in 9th generation of parmanand Ji in whose name is this temple and Shala On 18th June.1858 Rani Laxmi Bai who was seriously injured while fighting against Britishers and was surrounded by them.had requested that she should be given refuge as she would succumb to fatal injuries All this has historic background. Maharaj Gangadas promised to protect her.She requested that her dead body should not be handed over to Britishers.Maharaj gave her sacred Ganaga jal and after consuming that she succumbed to her injuries.450 Sadhus used to live there at that time Maharaj Ganaga das performed her last rites with the help of Sadhus. Thakur Raghunath Singh Kaptan.Krishan Ji Rao Bua, and one Pathan opted to live by the SANADHI of LAXMI BAI till their last.

British soldiers besieged Ganaga Das Ki Shala and in the battle 345 sadhus laid down their lives. While fighting with britishers Maharaj slipped towards banks of the Ganges. MAharah Jivaji Rao himself went to Maharaj Ganga Das Who expressed his annoyance to Scindia But after a span Maharaj Ganga Das Came back.

Hazarat Meer Badshah
Dargah of Hazrat Meer Badshah is situated at Maharaj bada in front of Municipal corporation main office in the heart of Gwalior city. He came to Gwalior 150 years ago. He treated people of all religions and castes alike. His Urs is celebrated/every year with great pomp & Show cherished desires of visitors to his Durgah seem to have been fulfilled. He was an elderly man of his time of Gwalior town.

Hazrat Mansoor Shah
Hazrat Mansoor Shah Sahib was the religious Guru of scindia dynasty. He belonged to Beed Z(Dist Aurangabad). Maratha Saedar Nagadji scindia was badly wounded in battle with Ahmed shah Abdali at panipat and after his defeat he was not traceable. scindia’s wife who was native of Beed met Hazrat Mansoor Shah Sufi the Great sant of that time and prayed for the search of her missing husband. He Could be traced by the blessings of Mansoor shah sahib.

After this Scindia used to keep visiting Mansoor Shah sahib and by his blessings Marathas Under leadership of scindia met success in northern India. Scindia invited Mansoor Shah Sahib to Gwalior but being 85 years old. he could not accept the invitation of Maharaja scindia.

But his son HABIB SHAH came to Gwalior who was bestowed with jagir by Scindia. Even today personnel effects Utensils, Choga, Khadao etc. have been perserved safely in Gorkhi near Bada urs of Man soor shah sahib is celebrated every year with great pomp and show by scindia royal family. At present MOHD.KHUSRO is the 8th pedigree of Mansoor Shah Sahib who is residing at campoo road of Gwalior city. RELIGIOUS GOODWILL OF GWALIOR

Late Maharaj Madhorao Scindia Ex-ruler of Gwalior State opted secular religious policy and respected all religions alike. On becoming ruler on 15-12-1894 and after attaining administrative powers, he started developing Gwalior. in that period many industries and business were started. Jivaji Cotton Mills was established in those days. MAJLIS-A_AAM and MAJLIS-A-KANOON were established where in democratic benefits could be availed by people at large. Scindia kept on touring India and abroad and kept on attempting for the development and benefit of Gwalior state. During his regime for the first time electricity came into being in 1905 for which he spent Rs. 3 lac at that time. With the advent of electricity this area begin to change in miraculous way.

In 19th century people of this area were infused with spirit of citizenship. In 1907-08 circles were created which included certain Mohallas where in a representative was elected who in turn recommended facilities in the public interest. By this there was sufficient increase in the public facilities. In Gwalior the feeling of relegious unity is quite old. In 16th century Raja Man Singh of Tomar dynasty proved his ideals by marrying Gujri Rani “Mrignayni” who belonged to a backward caste. Ex-ruler of Gwalior decided to nominate 7 Muslims to Praja Sabha and 2 to Rajya Sabha. 30% of Government jobs were given to them. In the regime of Maharaja Jiwaji Rao Scindia Muslims were given high posts; Commander-in-chief and important ministers were muslims. Efforts were made to maintain Hindu-Muslim unity in these days. Famous Bal Krishna Sharma “NAVIN” said in 1939-40 that British Government was bent upon spreading religious riots by initiating poisonous versions.

We both Hindu and Muslims have alike suffering. Our enemy is common i.e. British Govt. and their anti-religious policy. In Gwalior State Sultan of After married a Hindu lady and thus presented example of Hindu muslim unity. In Gwalior Division, Pitambara Peeth in Datia city is an important Hindu religious place. Ex- ruler of Datia tried to carve a Muslim world fame wrestler Gama Pahalwan who is cited today with great pride. Historic Gwalior fort is a living example which signifies people of various religious faiths. There exist old Jain temple, historic Teli ka Mandir and many a tombs and graveyards of well known Muslim Sants and Fakirs. There exists a beautiful Gurudwara of northern India. There are 57 feet high idol of God Adinath and hundred beautiful idols after carving the walls of the fort. There are 3 main tombs of great Sufi Sants Hazrat Mohd.Ghos Sahib, Khwaja Kanoon Sahib and Baba Kapur Sahib in Gwalior city which are respected by citizens of all sects and religions. The tomb of great Sufi Sant Hazrat Mohd. Ghos Sahib of 16th Century is not only known for the needy, but at the same time is being visited by people as tourist spot.

Late Maharaja Madhorao Scindia in 1920 had got constructed Moti Masjid Gopal Mandir, Gurudwara. Theosophical lodge and church in phool Bagh Campus and thus he provided same status and respect to all religions. since times of scindia all celebrate together utsav of Ganesh, Tajyai of Moharam, Holi ID and diwali for the last 5 centuries Hindu-muslim Unity was founded. Spirt of brother-hood was fortified during past 75 years. by the efforts of late scindia this area is known as centre of Shanti-Sadbhavna (peace and good will) in the whole of the country where every citizen is first a human being then he is hindu, Muslim, sikh or a christian.

History

• History of Gwalior I
• History of Gwalior II

Tourist Attractions

• Inside Gwalior
• Around Gwalior

Misc Links

• Alijah Srinath

Gwalior’s Music Tradition
Gwalior’s Esteemed Ladies
Other Miscellaneous Information

Information by,

Neelesh Karkare
Gwalior,
INDIA

A series on my Native Gwalior,

I’m not the creator! Its sent to me by my cousin Neelesh Karare from Gwalior

You can access it here Gwalior

Woh Nayi sadak ka sama, woh Brijwasi ki chaat,
Woh monica ki ice cream, Wah usme thi kuch baat.
Woh pandit sweet ki mithai, woh ICH ka dosa,
Woh srinath ki pav bhaji aur Jain ka samosa.

Woh tempu ka saffer, woh phool bag ki hawa,
Woh Maheshwari Park ki raunak aur Laxmi bai colony ka sama.
Woh January ki kadake ki sardi, woh baarishon ke mahiney,
Woh garmi ki chuttiyan, jab chute te they paseeney.

Woh holi ki masti, woh doston ki toli,
Woh diwali ke patakhe aur janmashtmi ki roli
Woh Kila gate ki patange aur woh Cricket ka khel,
Woh ghar ki chat pe Cricket aur colony ke ladkon ka chaurahe pe mail.

Woh padav ka mahol, Woh chambal ghati se ati thandi leheren
Woh Sarafa ka nazara, Wah uske kya kehene.
Woh Loha mandi ki galiyan , woh KRG ki ladkiyan.
Woh Roxy ki balcony aur woh Agarwal ki pooriyan

Woh school ki life aur woh College ki Zindagi,
Woh MITS ka rasta aur woh Canteen ki patties
Woh College ki kudiyan aur GH ke saamne mel
Humne bhi bas dekhe hi thei wo saare khel.

Woh Nazar bagh ki market, wo highway ke dhabe
Woh poorane Gwalior ki raaste ,jahan humne safar hain kaate.
Wo chauraha , wo Railway station………

Itna sab keh diya par dil kehta hai aur bhi kuch kahoon
Wo shehar hain mera apna, jiska naam hai Gwalior

From Madhur’s College Group box

Gwalior under the Sindhia

In 1760 it was garrisoned by the Maratha leader Sindhia, from whom it was wrested in 1780 by the forces of the British East India Company, and to whom it was finally restored by the British in 1886.

Under the British Raj, the Sindhia ruled a large princely state with its capital at Gwalior. The state consisted of two well-defined parts, which may roughly be called the northern and the southern. The former was a compact mass of territory, bounded north and northwest by the Chambal River, which separated it from the British districts of Agra and Etawah, and the princely states of Dholpur, Karauli and Jaipur of Rajputana; on the east by the British districts of Jalaun, Jhansi, Lalitpur and Saugor; on the south by the princely states of Bhopal, Tonk, Khilchipur and Rajgarh; and on the west those of Jhalawar, Tonk and Kota of Rajputana. The southern, or Malwa, portion was made up of detached or semi-detached districts, between which are interposed parts of other princely states, which again were mixed up with each other in bewildering intricacy. The two portions together had a total area of 25,041 sq. mi. and a population of 2,933,001 in 1901.

The chief products were wheat, millets, pulses of various kinds, maize, rice, linseed and other oil-seeds; poppy, yielding the Malwa opium; sugar-cane, cotton, tobacco, indigo, garlic, turmeric and ginger. In the first decade of the twentieth century about 60% of the population of Gwalior state were employed in agricultural and only 15% in industrial occupations, the great majority of the latter being home workers. There was a leather factory at Morar; cotton-presses at Morena, Baghana and Ujjain; ginning factories at Agar, Nalkhera, Shajapur and Sonkach; and a cotton-mill at Ujjain. 55,000 persons were engaged in the cotton industry at the time of the 1901 census.

The population was composed of many elements, among which Brahmins and Rajputs were specially numerous. The prevailing religion was Hinduism, 84% of the people being Hindus and only 6% Muslims. The revenue of the state was about one million sterling; and large reserves had been accumulated, from which two millions were lent to the government of India in 1889, and later on another million for the construction of the Gwalior-Agra and Indore-Neemuch railways. Gwalior state built its own railways, including a branch from Bina on the Indian Midland to Guna; an extension of this line to Baran, which opened in 1899; from Bhopal to Ujjain; and two light railways, from Gwalior to Shivpuri and Gwalior to Bhind, which were opened by the viceroy in November 1899. On the same occasion the viceroy opened the Victoria College, founded to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee; and the Memorial Hospital, built in memory of the Maharaja’s father. British currency had been introduced. The state maintained three regiments of Imperial Service cavalry, two battalions of infantry and a transport corps.

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– Neelesh Karkare

After Indian independence
Upon India’s independence in 1947, the Sindhia Maharaja of Gwalior acceded to India, and Gwalior, together with the 24 other princely states in the western half of the Central India Agency, formed the new state of Madhya Bharat. Gwalior was the winter capital of the new state, and Indore was the summer capital. In 1956, Madhya Bharat and the neighboring states of Vindhya Pradesh and Bhopal were merged into Madhya Pradesh state, with the new capital at Bhopal. The Scindia family has been active in national politics.

Neelesh Karkare,
Gwalior
M.P.
INDIA