Discover the rich history of Raja Mahal Saraikela Kharsawan, Jharkhand. Learn about its architecture, royal family, legends, Chhau festival celebrations, nearby attractions, and tourism significance.
Introduction to Raja Mahal
Seraikela State, also known as Saraikela or Seraikella, was a small princely state in India during the British Raj, which is now Saraikela Kharsawan, a district of Jharkhand state. The capital of this princely state was Saraikela. Here is the Raja Mahal, which was ruled by this dynasty for 8 centuries continuously for 58 generations for more than 400 years. This palace is located near the district headquarters.
Historical importance of Raja Mahal
Raja Mahal of Saraikela Kharsawan was the royal residence of the Saraikela Rajwada established in the 17th century, which was built by King Bikram Singh I or his successors. This palace was a center of architecture, spirituality and cultural importance.
Its court, courtyard, and worship places—all together make this palace a witness to the royal family, art and culture. This construction of more than 300 years still remains a symbol of tourism, folk faith and cultural identity.
Location and geographical position
Raja Mahal is situated in Saraikela town, the headquarter of Saraikela-Kharsawan district of Jharkhand state. This palace is situated in the middle of the town and the local people know it as Raja Mahal or King Palace. Ma Paudi Mandir and many cultural places related to Chhau dance are also present nearby. Located in a spherical position at approximately 22.70°N latitude and 85.95°E longitude. You can easily reach here by road, rail and air.
History of Saraikela State
The Saraikela State was founded in 1620 by Kunwar Bikram Singh, son of Singhvanshi Raja Arjun Singh of Porahat. It consisted of 12 villages, and the area was earlier known as Singhbhum Peed. The first contact of Saraikela State with the British was established in 1770, and in 1793 a treaty was signed between the Raja of Saraikela and the British.
In the 18th century the state came under the influence of the Maratha rulers of Nagpur. In 1803, at the conclusion of the Second Anglo-Maratha War at Deogaon, Orissa, it became a princely state of British India.
After the war, the East India Company included the Saraikela State under the rule of the Chota Nagpur Commissioner, and Raja Abhiram Singh was offered to waive the annual tax if he assisted the British. In 1820, with the assistance of the Raja of Saraikela, Rudan Singh, the rebel leader of Tamar, was arrested.
In the 1857 war, the king of Saraikela helped the British, in return for which the British gave a part of the Paodahat state to the king of Saraikela. In 1899, the British recognized Saraikela as a princely state.
Administrative changes and merger
In 1912, Saraikela came under the authority of the province of Bihar and Orissa, which was recently created from the eastern districts of Bengal. In 1936, the state was placed under the authority of the province of Orissa.
After the independence of the country in 1947, Saraikela became a part of the Indian Union, and Raja Aditya Pratap Singh Deo, the last ruler of the princely state of Saraikela, signed the Instrument of Accession to India on 18 May 1948.
Seraikela in the modern era
After the reorganization of states in 1956, Saraikela was included in the state of Bihar. Since the year 2000, Saraikela is part of the state of Jharkhand. On 30 April 2001, the 22nd district of Jharkhand was formed by combining both the princely states of Saraikela and Kharsawan, named Saraikela Kharsawan, which comes under the Kolhan division. The rulers of the princely state used to hold the title of ‘Kunwar’ till 1884.
Cultural and historical information of Saraikela Kharsawan Raja Mahal
There is a mention of the meeting of the members of the Saraikela royal family with the members of the Jaipur royal family, where they discussed their heritage and golden history. In 2021, Dr. Vinita, daughter of Padmashree Suryadev Singh, a member of the Jaipur royal family of Rajasthan, reached Kharsawan Rajmahal with her husband Sanjeev.
She met King Gopal Chandra Singhdev of Kharsawan royal family and his wife Aparajita Singhdev. Members of the Saraikela royal family have been members of the Bihar-Odisha Legislative Assembly. 3 kings of Saraikela royal family and the king and crown prince of Ichagarh have also become MLAs.
Area of Saraikela princely state
The area of Saraikela princely state was 1163 sq km. In 1901, this area generated an average revenue of Rs 92,000. It was one of the nine princely states of Chhota Nagpur under the authority of the Governor of Bengal Presidency. At present, the total area of Seraikela-Kharsawan district is 2,657 sq km. According to the 2011 census, the population of Saraikela town was 14,252.
Architecture of Raja Mahal
Today, this palace has become a complete ruin. There is no room or hole left in this palace that is habitable at present. The main reason for building this palace was that the king built it to rule here. The total area of this palace and Saraikela princely state is 1163 sq km. In which many buildings and habitable houses have been built today.
Since this Raja Mahal is ancient, its condition is deteriorating day by day. Due to lack of maintenance from time to time, this historical place is getting destroyed today. A mixture of Rajput and Mughal architecture is visible in the design and architecture of this palace.
This palace was built keeping in mind both the purposes of defense and royal residence. Traditional Rajputi carvings and royal symbols are made on the gate. As soon as you enter the palace, you find a large courtyard, which was used for royal programs and holding court.
There are idols and symbols of Hindu gods and goddesses engraved at many places inside the palace. The roof and doors are made of teak and sal wood. High walls and big gates have been built all around.
Stories and legends related to the palace
The princely state of Saraikela was established by King Bikram Singh of the Rajput Ranthor dynasty, who came from Podahat and settled here. The most special thing about this dynasty is that this dynasty ruled for 8 centuries continuously for 58 generations.
- The story of royal splendor: It is said that this palace was built by the then kings of Saraikela to show the power and prosperity of their rule. At that time, guests from far and wide used to come to the royal court and the palace was the main place for their hospitality.
- The legend of the secret tunnel: This story is popular among the local people that there used to be a secret tunnel in the King’s palace, which connected the palace to the nearby forests and rivers. In case of war or crisis, the king-queen and their family used to escape to a safe place through this tunnel. However, now only the remains and legends of the existence of these tunnels remain.
- Beliefs related to cultural heritage: The palace is considered not only the center of power in the local society but also a confluence of culture and art. Chhau dance and other folk arts developed here under the patronage of the kings. People believe that the palace is still a witness to that glorious tradition.
Royal family and culture
The princely state of Seraikela was founded in 1620 by Kunwar Bikram Singh, son of Arjun Singh, the Singhvanshi king of Podahat. The rulers of the princely state held the title of ‘Kunwar’ until 1884. They were descendants of the Singhvanshi rulers of Podahat.
The list of rulers of Saraikela princely state is as follows:
- Kunwar Bikram Singh (1620-1677)
- Kunwar Naru Singh (1677-1728)
- Kunwar Shatrughan Singh (1728-1743)
- Raja Abhiram Singh (1743-1818)
- Raja Bikram Singh (1818-1823)
- Kunwar Ajambar Singh (1823-1837)
- Raja Chakradhar Singh Deo (1837-1883)
- Maharaja Udit Narayan Singh Deo (1883-1931)
- Raja Aditya Pratap Singh Deo (1931-1948)
The last ruler Raja Aditya Pratap Singh Deo signed the agreement of merger with the Indian Union on 18 May 1948. The former royal family of Saraikela, the famous Singh Deo family, still plays an active role in history, culture and social activities.
The family continues to be the custodians of the ‘Ma Pauri’ temple in the palace even after the princely administrative rights have ended and the Chhau Festival makes them cultural custodians even in present times. Some prominent members of the family who are active in public life are:
- Rajkumar Pratap Aditya Singh Deo
- Rajkumar Juga Bhanu Singh Deo
- Maharajkumar Jairaj Singh Deo
- Rajkumar Rajvikram Singh Deo
Raja Aditya Pratap Singh Deo’s son, Tikayet Sahib Nrupendra Narayan Singh Deo, has been an MLA from Seraikela, while Rajendra Narayan Singh Deo (adopted) has also been the Chief Minister of Odisha. Currently, the family’s public influence is visible in both Jharkhand and Odisha.
Festivals and events held at Raja Mahal
Chaitra festival is celebrated on the arrival of spring, and Raja Mahal is the main venue for it. On this occasion, Chhau dance is organized all night in the palace premises which attracts local and foreign audiences. Various folk dances including Firkaal, Pykka and Manbhum Chhau are performed during the festival.
Apart from dance performances, these festivals include mask making workshops, student participation and family cultural dialogues. Such events are usually held in the second week of April, which includes Bhairav Puja, Ratri Jagran, and royal award distribution.
In 2024, popular singer Mohit Chauhan performed at this festival. Chhau Festival also includes performances by Chhau artists as well as folk singers, drama, and local artists, making it not just a dance festival, but a cultural fair.
Raja Mahal and today’s time
Today this palace is a historical heritage. Over time, some parts have become dilapidated, but the main structure is still strong. Conservation efforts are being made by the state government and local administration. The main structure of the palace is still strong, but the effects of time are clearly visible on the walls and roofs.
In some parts, the paint and carvings have faded. Some windows and doors are in a dilapidated condition. Raja Mahal is now an attractive tourist destination. Tourists coming to Jharkhand do not forget to visit this historical heritage of Saraikela. On coming here, tourists not only see the grandeur of the palace but also get acquainted with Chhau dance and local history.
Tourism Importance
Everyone enjoys the experience of visiting Raja Mahal. People say that there is a completely peaceful and calm atmosphere in the premises of Raja Mahal. No noise of any kind is seen. When we peep inside many doors, we feel a bit scary. We feel scared to go inside. It seems as if someone is watching us.
Local people rarely come here to visit. This palace is situated on the side of the road, so while passing by here, many people stop and enjoy the view here. It can be considered the best place to spend time in today’s time.
There is a peaceful atmosphere here, you can spend some moments with your loved ones here. Tourists from nearby areas come here daily to see Raja Mahal. There is a feeling of peace while walking here in the evening. More than 50 thousand tourists come to see this Raja Mahal throughout the year. There are many places worth seeing here.
Other places to visit nearby
- Chandil Dams
- Sheesh Mahal
- Jayda Temple
- Palna Dam
- Sai mandir
- Akashini Mandir
- Dalma Top
- Hesakocha Waterfall
- King Place
Photography and Filming
The Raja Mahal is extremely photogenic due to its grand architecture, high domes, carved doors and huge courtyard. The view of the palace looks even more attractive in the morning and evening light, which is perfect for landscape and heritage photography.
As the main gate, courtyard, arches and windows, view from the upper floor. It is said that this Raja Mahal has been used many times in films and documentaries. As it has been done in the shooting of local documentaries, cultural programs and TV serials.
Travel Information of Raja Mahal
You can also go to Raja Mahal by car or bike. Local people often come here to visit. The best time to visit here can be good from August to February. At this time the weather is almost fine. If you come here in the summer season, then there may be some problem.
There is no problem of any kind of food and drink after coming here. Many food items are available at local shops. To reach Raja Mahal, you can use rail, road or air transport.
- The nearest airport is Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi which is about 130 km away.
- Sonari Airport, Jamshedpur is located at 35 km.
- Adityapur Railway Station 30 km.
- Tatanagar Junction 35 km from here, Jamshedpur.
- Jamshedpur by road, 35 km.
- Ranchi about 130 km.
- Chaibasa about 35 km.
Accommodation
Many hotels are available in the city near Raja Mahal. Where it fits well according to your budget. For example, the hotels and lodges in Seraikela town are Hotel Rajlaxmi, Hotel Anamika, Shivam Lodge, Hotel Prakash.
There are small guest houses and dharamshalas in and around Rajnagar a few kilometers away from Seraikela. The best hotels in Jamshedpur are The Sonnet, Bistupur, Ramada Jamshedpur, Hotel Alcor, Fortune Park Centre Point, Hotel Boulevard etc.
Measures to save historical heritage
To save historical heritage like Raja Mahal, Seraikela-Kharsawan, conservation and repair work is most important, in which old walls, wood carvings and roofs should be repaired with traditional materials.
To protect the real identity of the palace, its documentation and digitization is also necessary, so that old photographs and maps can be preserved for the future. Involving the local community in the care of heritage, training youth as guides and caretakers and increasing awareness in schools and colleges will also help in its conservation.
Tourism should be promoted in a controlled manner so that unruly crowds do not damage the heritage, and ticket revenues can be used for conservation. Linking cultural events like Chhau dance and fairs to the palace will keep both the local culture and the heritage alive. CCTV and guards should be provided for security and surveillance to prevent theft and damage.
Partnerships with the government, tourism department, local NGOs and companies can provide funds and expertise, while awareness campaigns and social media can instill a sense of pride in the heritage among the youth. Finally, the palace should be used in a sustainable way—it should be developed as a museum, cultural centre or heritage tourism spot, avoiding commercial use such as weddings. This way the heritage can be protected for generations to come.
FAQ’s
Where is Raja Mahal Saraikela Kharsawan located?
The Raja Mahal is located in Saraikela town, the headquarters of Saraikela-Kharsawan district in Jharkhand.
Who built the Raja Mahal?
The Raja Mahal was built in the 17th century by Kunwar Bikram Singh, the founder of the Saraikela princely state, and his successors.
What is the historical significance of the Raja Mahal?
The palace has been the royal residence of the Saraikela princely state and remained the center of power, culture and Chhau dance for over 300 years.
How to reach the Raja Mahal?
It is easily accessible by road, rail and air. The nearest airports are Sonari (Jamshedpur – 35 km) and Birsa Munda Airport (Ranchi – 130 km).
What festivals are celebrated in the Raja Mahal?
Chaitra Parv and Chhau Mahotsav are celebrated here with great pomp, in which folk dances, mask making and cultural programs are organized.
Is Raja Mahal open for tourists?
Yes, tourists can visit here and experience its grandeur, history and serene atmosphere.
What is the current status of Raja Mahal?
Today the palace is partially dilapidated but still stands strong and conservation work is going on.
What are the places worth visiting around Raja Mahal?
Chandil Dam, Sheesh Mahal, Dalma Top, Hesakocha Waterfall and Jayda Temple are the major attractions.
Does shooting take place in Raja Mahal?
Yes, many documentaries, cultural programs and TV serials have been shot here.
What measures are being taken for the conservation of Raja Mahal?
The state government and local organizations are working on its conservation, repair and tourism development.