The Rathors or Gahawars were a prominent Rajput dynasty that ruled over the region of Kanauj for more than a century, from 1090 to 1194 CE. This dynasty played a significant role in the history of northern India, particularly in the regions of Banaras, Ayodhya, and Kanauj.

Foundation and Early Expansion

• Chandradeva (1090–1114 CE): Chandradeva, the founder of the Rathor or Gahawar dynasty, established his rule over Kanauj around 1090 CE. Under his leadership, the kingdom expanded to include important cities such as Banaras (Varanasi), Ayodhya, and Kanauj. His reign laid the foundation for the dynasty’s future successes and established Kanauj as a powerful kingdom in northern India.

The Reign of Govindachandra: Restoration of Glory

• Govindachandra (1112–1155 CE): Chandradeva was succeeded by his grandson, Govindachandra, who enjoyed a long and prosperous reign. Govindachandra is credited with restoring the glory of the Kanauj kingdom, which had suffered from invasions and internal strife. His reign marked a period of stability and growth, during which the kingdom regained its prominence. Govindachandra’s administrative skills and military prowess helped him secure the kingdom’s borders and maintain peace in the region.

Vijayachandra: Defender of Kanauj

• Vijayachandra (1155–1170 CE): Following Govindachandra’s successful reign, his son Vijayachandra ascended the throne. Vijayachandra continued his father’s work by defending the kingdom against external threats. He is particularly noted for driving out Amir Kushro from Lahore, a significant achievement that demonstrated the military strength of the Rathors or Gahawars. Under Vijayachandra’s rule, Kanauj remained a formidable power in northern India.

Jaichandra: The Last Great Ruler

• Jaichandra (1170–1194 CE): The last great ruler of the Rathor or Gahawar dynasty was Jaichandra, who is also well-known in popular legend as Raja Jaichand. Jaichandra’s reign marked both the peak and the decline of the dynasty. Although he was a powerful and influential ruler, his conflicts with neighboring kingdoms, including his rivalry with Prithviraj Chauhan, led to significant challenges for his kingdom.

Jaichandra’s reign is often remembered for his fateful rivalry with Prithviraj Chauhan, which is immortalized in many legends and folklore. The animosity between the two rulers eventually led to weakened defenses against external threats. In 1194 CE, Jaichandra faced defeat at the hands of Muhammad Ghori during the Battle of Chandawar. This defeat marked the end of the Rathor or Gahawar dynasty’s rule over Kanauj, as the region fell into the hands of Muslim invaders.

Conclusion

The Rathors or Gahawars of Kanauj were a significant Rajput dynasty that contributed to the rich history of northern India. From the establishment of their rule by Chandradeva to the prosperous reign of Govindachandra and the legendary conflicts of Jaichandra, the dynasty played a crucial role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of the region. Despite their eventual decline, the legacy of the Rathors or Gahawars endures in the annals of Indian history, particularly through the tales of Raja Jaichand and the kingdom of Kanauj.