Module 3: Migration & Foundation of the Ujjainiya Rajputs in Bhojpur
Concept
Subtopic 3.1: Paramara Roots, Santan Singh (Devraj) & Displacement of Cheros
The arrival of the Ujjainiya Rajputs in western Bihar reshaped the demographic and political landscape of the Shahabad region:
- Origins of the Ujjainiya Rajputs: The Ujjainiyas claimed descent from the imperial Paramara Rajputs of Malwa (Dhar / Ujjain), tracing their ancestry to Raja Bhoja. Following the conquest of Malwa by Sultan Alauddin Khilji in 1305 CE, Prince Devraj migrated eastward with his followers into Bihar.
- Founder Santan Singh (Devraj): In Bhojpur, the founder of the Ujjainiya dynasty was Santan Singh (संतन सिंह). His original name was Devraj (मूल नाम: देवराज). He carved out a formidable principality, naming the region Bhojpur in honor of his ancestor Raja Bhoja.
- Displacement and Fall of the Cheros: The actual fall of the Chero tribal power in the Shahabad plains was brought about by the Ujjainiya rulers. The Ujjainiyas displaced the Chero rulers from the Shahabad region after decades of bitter warfare, driving the Cheros southward into the hills of Palamu.
- Historic Capitals of the Ujjainiyas: As the Ujjainiyas expanded their dominion, their royal capital shifted between several fortified strongholds:
• Dhawa (ढावा) — The earliest forest fortress established by Devraj.
• Bihta (बिहटा) — Shifted closer to the river trade.
• Buxar (बक्सर) — Strategic bastion on the banks of the Ganges.
• Hence, the capital of the Ujjainiya rulers of Bhojpur included Dhawa, Bihta, and Buxar (All of the above). Later branches founded Jagdishpur and Dumraon.
- The founder of the Ujjainiya dynasty in Bhojpur was Santan Singh (original name: Devraj).
- The actual fall of the Chero tribal power was accomplished by the Ujjainiya rulers.
- The Ujjainiyas displaced the Chero rulers from the Shahabad region.
- The capitals of the Ujjainiya rulers of Bhojpur included Dhawa, Bihta, and Buxar (All of the above).
- The prominent branches of Ujjainiyas established ruling seats at Dumraon, Jagdishpur, and Buxar.
- Question: Who was the founder of the Ujjainiya dynasty in Bhojpur? Answer: Santan Singh (Devraj).
- Question: What was the original name of Santan Singh? Answer: Devraj.
- Question: Who brought about the actual fall of Chero tribal power in Shahabad? Answer: Ujjainiya rulers.
- Question: Which places served as the capitals of the Ujjainiya rulers of Bhojpur? Answer: Dhawa, Bihta, and Buxar.
- Question: Who displaced the Chero rulers from the Shahabad region? Answer: The Ujjainiyas.
MCQs
Answer this question, then use Next.
Question 1: Who was the founder of the Ujjainiya dynasty in Bhojpur?
Question 2: What was the original name of Santan Singh, the founder of the Ujjainiya dynasty in Bhojpur?
Question 3: The actual fall and displacement of Chero tribal power in Shahabad was brought about by:
Question 4: Which of the following served as the capital(s) of the Ujjainiya rulers of Bhojpur?
Question 5: Who displaced the Chero rulers from the Shahabad region?
Question 6: From which ancient royal Rajput clan did the Ujjainiyas of Bihar trace their descent?
Question 7: The region of western Bihar was named 'Bhojpur' to commemorate which illustrious ancestor?
Question 8: Which was the very first fortified seat of power established by Devraj in the forests of Shahabad?
Question 9: Later branches of the Ujjainiya dynasty established famous estates at Dumraon and:
Question 10: Which military factor gave the Ujjainiya Rajputs a decisive advantage over the local Cheros?
One-liners
Write your answer, then submit to see the correct answer.
Who was the founder of the Ujjainiya dynasty in Bhojpur?
Santan Singh (Devraj).What was the original name of Santan Singh?
Devraj.Who brought about the actual fall of Chero tribal power in Shahabad?
Ujjainiya rulers.Which places served as the capitals of the Ujjainiya rulers of Bhojpur?
Dhawa, Bihta, and Buxar.Who displaced the Chero rulers from the Shahabad region?
The Ujjainiyas.