Capital of Rajasthan – Jaipur

Capital of Rajasthan State

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is a lively city famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and impressive architecture. As of 2011, it had a population of 3.1 million people, making it the largest city in the state. It’s often called the “Pink City” because many of its buildings are pink in color. Jaipur is a popular tourist spot with famous places like Hawa Mahal, Amer Fort, and City Palace. The city is important for its economy, and its historical and cultural significance makes it a key center in the region. Jaipur, with its mix of tradition and modernity, remains an important place for business, education, and tourism in India.

These are some interesting facts about Jaipur:

• Jaipur was one of India’s earliest planned cities, designed by Vidyadhar Bhattacharya in 1727. Its layout was influenced by traditional Indian architecture and design principles.
• The city is famous for being called the “Pink City,” a name it earned in 1876 when it was painted pink to welcome British royalty. The pink color represents hospitality and has been maintained ever since.
• In Jaipur, you can find the world’s largest stone sundial at the Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This incredible astronomical engineering marvel is still accurate today.
• Jaipur has a unique tradition of playing polo with elephants instead of horses, adding a twist to the traditional game.
• The Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, was built not for the royal family to live in but for royal ladies to observe street festivals without being seen, as per the customs of that time.
• Jaipur is renowned for hosting the Jaipur Literature Festival, one of the world’s largest free literary events that attracts authors, thinkers, and literature enthusiasts from around the globe.
• The Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur is one of India’s oldest and most famous movie theaters, known for its extravagant interior decor, providing a special movie-watching experience.
• The Albert Hall Museum in Jaipur houses a unique exhibit—an Egyptian mummy—an unusual addition to an Indian museum’s diverse collection.
• Jaipur is known as the birthplace of various signature fabrics and designs, including the famous Jaipur quilts, blue pottery, and Bandhani print textiles.

Jaipur Clubs and Teams

• Jaipur Pink Panthers
• Rajasthan Royals
• Rajasthan United FC
• Rajasthan Perfect FC

Overview of Jaipur – Capital of Rajasthan State

Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan in India, is well-known for its impressive history and culture, along with its remarkable architecture. Established in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur is one of India’s earliest carefully planned cities. Its central location in Rajasthan makes it an important hub in India. The city is celebrated for its distinctive buildings, lively markets, and a diverse range of local food.

Historical Importance

Jaipur’s history is closely connected with the Rajput kingdoms, known for their brave warriors and grand palaces. The city’s establishment marked a significant shift in power from Amber (now Amer) to Jaipur, symbolizing a move from old-fashioned to modern urban planning. Jaipur has witnessed many important events and has played a crucial role in the region’s politics and culture.

Cultural Significance

Jaipur is a vibrant blend of culture and tradition, famous for its festivals like Teej and Gangaur, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm. It is also renowned for its unique crafts, including jewelry making, textiles, and handicrafts. The city’s traditional music, dance, and art are an integral part of its identity, showcasing the rich Rajasthani culture.

Impressive Architecture

Jaipur’s architecture is a beautiful mix of Rajput and Mughal styles. Iconic buildings like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar (an astronomical observatory) are examples of the city’s architectural grandeur. The nearby Amer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning representation of Rajput architecture and design.

Tourist Attraction

Jaipur is a major tourist hotspot, drawing visitors from around the world. Its colorful markets, such as Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, offer a wide range of traditional goods, including handmade jewelry, Rajasthani textiles, and blue pottery. The city’s cuisine, featuring delicious local dishes, is a culinary delight for food lovers. Furthermore, its proximity to other tourist destinations in Rajasthan makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the state’s rich heritage.

Capital of Rajasthan in Map

First Capital of Rajasthan

The first capital of Rajasthan used to be Amber, situated about 11 kilometers away from Jaipur. It was established by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, a Kachwaha Rajput, who governed from 1699 to 1744. Nevertheless, following India’s independence in 1947, Jaipur was designated as the capital of the newly established state of Rajasthan in 1949.

Second Capital of Rajasthan

Jaipur is the current capital of Rajasthan, and it became the capital in 1949. Although Jodhpur was once the capital of the Kingdom of Marwar, which is now part of Rajasthan, it is no longer the state’s capital.

Capital of Rajasthan Before Jaipur

Capital of Rajasthan before Jaipur was Amber held that position. Jaipur, originally called Jeypore, came into existence in 1727 under the leadership of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. He decided to move the capital from Amber to Jaipur due to a growing population and a lack of water resources. To plan the new city, he studied various books on architecture and consulted with architects. Initially, Amber, which is located 11 kilometers away from Jaipur, served as his capital. However, eventually, Jaipur was established as the new capital to replace Amber.

Cultural Capital of Rajasthan

Jodhpur, often called the Cultural Capital of Rajasthan, is famous for its long history, impressive buildings, and lively traditions. It was established in 1459 and served as the capital of the Marwar kingdom, which is evident in landmarks like the grand Mehrangarh Fort and the beautiful Umaid Bhawan Palace. Jodhpur is also known as the “Blue City” because many of its houses are painted blue. This city is renowned for its folk music and dance, such as Ghoomar and Kalbelia styles. The city’s vibrant culture is showcased in its lively festivals, with the Marwar Festival being a notable example, highlighting the region’s folk heritage. In addition, Jodhpur’s traditional crafts and unique cuisine, featuring dishes like Dal Bati Churma, play a significant role in its cultural identity.

Judicial Capital of Rajasthan

Jaipur is the legal capital of Rajasthan, where a section of the Rajasthan High Court is located. This court is the highest legal authority in the state and was founded on August 29, 1949, under the Rajasthan High Court Ordinance, 1949. While the main court is in Jodhpur, there is also a branch in Jaipur.

The court is supposed to have 50 judges, but currently, there are only 34 judges in place. Initially, there were five separate High Courts in different parts of the state, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Udaipur. However, when the princely states of Rajputana were integrated into Rajasthan, the High Court of Judicature for Rajasthan was officially established in Jodhpur. It initially operated in Jaipur, Udaipur, Bikaner, and Kota, but later the number of judges was reduced to 6.

Interesting Facts About Rajasthan

• Largest State in India: Rajasthan holds the title of being India’s largest state, covering a whopping 10.4% of the country’s total land area. Its vast deserts and diverse landscapes make it exceptionally varied.
• Home of the Thar Desert: Rajasthan proudly houses the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, which ranks as the 17th largest desert globally. This desert is home to a unique ecosystem.
• Palace on Wheels: Rajasthan offers an opulent train experience with the ‘Palace on Wheels.’ This train recreates the royal journeys of Maharajas from the past, providing a luxurious way to explore the state.
• Karni Mata Temple: The Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke is renowned for its extraordinary veneration of rats. These rats are considered sacred and are protected within the temple, attracting visitors from around the world.
• Mount Abu: The Sole Hill Station: Mount Abu stands as Rajasthan’s only hill station, celebrated for its cooler climate and the astonishing Dilwara Temples, crafted from exquisite white marble.
• Bhangarh Fort: The Bhangarh Fort is famous as one of India’s most haunted places. It’s a popular tourist destination, well-known for its historic ruins and the captivating legends that surround it.
• Jodhpur’s Blue Houses: In Jodhpur, houses are famously adorned with blue paint, believed to possess cooling qualities in the scorching desert climate. The view of the blue city from atop Mehrangarh Fort is truly breathtaking.
• Chittorgarh Fort: The Chittorgarh Fort claims the title of India’s largest fort. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is celebrated for its majestic architecture and significant role in Rajput history.
• Birthplace of Traditional Arts: Rajasthan holds the distinction of being the birthplace of various traditional arts and crafts, including block printing, miniature painting, and the creation of blue pottery.
• The Camel Festival of Bikaner: The Camel Festival in Bikaner is a one-of-a-kind event that honors camels through races, dances, and a splendid parade featuring beautifully adorned camels.

FAQs on Capital of Rajasthan

What are the two capitals of Rajasthan?

Rajasthan has only one capital, which is Jaipur. It serves as both the administrative and judicial capital of the state.

Why Pink City is called Pink City?

Jaipur is called the Pink City because its buildings were painted pink in 1876 to welcome Prince Albert and Queen Victoria from Britain. The pink color symbolizes hospitality and has been maintained since then.

What is so famous about Jaipur?

Jaipur is famous for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks such as the Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, and Jantar Mantar.

What is the famous food of Jaipur?

The famous food of Jaipur includes traditional Rajasthani dishes like Dal Bati Churma, Ghevar, Pyaaz Kachori, and Mirchi Bada, known for their unique flavors and spices.

What is the old name of Jaipur?

The old name of Jaipur was not distinctly different from its current name. It has been known as Jaipur since its founding in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.

Who is the queen of Jaipur?

As of my last update, there is no reigning queen of Jaipur in a political sense. However, historically, queens in Jaipur were the wives of the Maharajas. One notable queen was Maharani Gayatri Devi, known for her beauty and grace.