Meghpar, Kutch

Meghpar is a village in Anjar Taluka in Kutch District of Gujarat of India. It is located on Anjar to Galpadar Road. About the history of Meghpar it is one of the 19 villages founded by Kutch Gurjar Kshatriyas or Mistris of Kutch. It is located at a distance of about 4  km from Taluka Headquarters Anjar. The famous Malkeshwar Mahadev Temple is located nearby. It is also known as Meghpar-Borichi.

These Mistris first moved in to Saurashtra in early 7th century and later a major group entered Kutch in 12th Century & established themselves at Dhaneti. Later from 12th century onwards they moved between Anjar and Bhuj and founded the villages of Anjar, Sinugra, Khambhra, Nagalpar, Khedoi, Madhapar, Hajapar, Kukma, Galpadar, Reha, Vidi, Ratnal, Jambudi, Devariya, Lovaria, Nagor, Chandiya, Meghpar and Kumbharia.^[1][2]

These group of warriors were also talented architects and have contributed in erection of most of the historical architect of Kutch The Mistris of these villages have built and developed the infrastructure, temples, community halls around the villages till late 19th century. Many members of Mistri community migrated out of village during the years 1850 to 1910, the early years of laying of Railway lines in British India and have now settled in various parts of India and East Africa. Some noted Railway Contractors were Patel Varjang Ramji Solanki, Lalji Nanji Parmar, Lira Kalani Taunk, Surji Lala Rathor, Vira Pancha, Kheema Limba Solanki, Megha Lira Maru.^[3][4] However, majority of old houses of Mistris with unique architect were destroyed in the earthquake of 26th January, 2001.

References

1. ^ http://www.chawra.com/kgk/history2.htm
2. ^ Gurjar Kshatriyas, also known as Mistris, came to Kutch from Rajasthan. They are skilled in building construction. They first established themselves at Dhaneti and were granted 18 villages by the rulers of Kutch. They are famous designers and developers of buildings and bridges.
3. ^ Kadia Kshatriya Abhudaya : Published in 1897 by Kumar Prakashan
4. ^ Ratna Bhagat ni Chopdi 2nd Edition : 1930

Coordinates: 23°05′02″N 70°04′19″E / 23.084°N 70.072°E / 23.084; 70.072