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Shivtalav
The story of Shivtalav (Shiv Nagari) begins in Vikram Samvat 1359 (1301 CE). At that time, Prince Veeramdev Sonigara of Jalore was hunting a wild boar in the Aravalli foothills. Exhausted, he collapsed. A devout Rajpurohit, Jagaji Mutha, son of Somaji Mutha, came upon him. Seeing the prince in distress, Jagaji arranged hukka-paani (food and water, as it was described in that era).
Pleased with this service, Veeramdev offered him land. Jagaji measured out 16 square kos (4x4 kos), planted a staff (chhadi ropan) near today’s Magra Mahadev Temple, and thus laid the foundation of Shivtalav. For survival, he dug Mutha Nada (Mutado) and Soma Nada for water supply.
Around 100–150 years later, Jagaji’s descendants settled permanently in Shivtalav. At the time, Raika families inhabited the area. In the struggle that followed, the Raikas were displaced; one Raika woman became sati. Elders recall that her image was once worshipped at Vada Peepaliya.
From then onwards, Shivtalav evolved into a recognized Thikana (estate), first under Mewar (Chittor), then later under Marwar (Jodhpur) following territorial transfers during Rana Kumbha’s reign.
After the fall of the Sonigara Chauhans to Alauddin Khilji’s armies in 1311 CE, the region passed into Mewar’s control, under the Sisodia rulers. Shivtalav’s jagirdars legitimized their estate by producing Veeramdev’s copperplate (tamrapatra) through the Chaubhuja thikanas of Mewar. This likely occurred during the reign of Maharana Mokal (1421–1433 CE).
Later, during Maharana Kumbha’s era (15th c.), the Aravalli foothill region was given in dowry to Marwar’s Rathore rulers. Thus, Shivtalav shifted from Mewar to Marwar (Jodhpur State). Once again, the jagirdars secured a tamrapatra from Jodhpur, confirming their rights.
Since the Vedic era, Indian society has revered ancestors. In Shivtalav, this tradition continues. Ancestors (Purab Ji) are worshiped as divine protectors. Unlike Satis (who sacrifice life for a cause), Purab Ji are those who died without performing certain rites (abhukt sanskar) and are venerated as guardian spirits.
Vaishnav Goswamis in Shivtalav worship their ancestors as saints, often equating them with Lord Shiva or Vaishnav sages. Notably, Purab Ji may be male or female, reflecting the inclusive nature of ancestral devotion.
The Raikas left behind three sacred legacies:
A Neem tree
A shrine of Hanuman Ji
The parthiya dhani pāt (sacred spot)
Parthiya Dhani is associated with Katabeshwar Mahadev of Gudalas hills, the only Shiva shrine in the world where horses are offered. Local lore says a Suthar once seated Shiva on a wooden horse; later Raikas carried it to Katabeshwar, and the tradition of offering horses began.
Jagaji’s descendants settled first at Nimda wali pol in Suravaton ki gali, taking over Raika lands and worship practices. Under the influence of Charbhuja Ji worship (strong in Mewar), they built a small shrine to Thakur Ji in Suravaton ka bas. The main village gate was toward Magra, where an image of Kheda Devi was installed.
With time, temples flourished:
Charbhuja Temple (worshipped as Sanwaliya Ji) by the Thadavat family.
Mahadev Temple in the northern part of the village tank, accepted by Ragavat family. This temple gave Shivtalav its name.
Tripolia Hathai (chowta/chowhta) built in the east with Jodhpur’s sanction, serving as the public square and village gate, with Hanuman Ji and Kheda Devi shrines.
Shivtalav, like much of Rajasthan, is rich in festivals, fairs, and local traditions. The village calendar is filled with religious and seasonal observances:
Chaitra Navratri – Worship of Maa Durga, culminating in Ram Navami. Earlier traditions included Ramdhun and recitation of Ramcharitmanas.
Akshay Tritiya (Akha Teej) – Villagers predicted rainfall using four earthen pots filled with water. Children played with clay toys, and homes prepared gud ka ghol (jaggery drink).
Vaishakhi Purnima – The end of the old agricultural year and start of the new. Village officials (kameen karu) also changed duty on this day.
Guru Purnima – Reverence to saints and gurus, with collective feasts at Mata Laxmi Bharti Ji’s Ashram.
Shravan Month – Special Shiv-puja throughout the month.
Raksha Bandhan (Rakhri) – Celebration of sibling bonds.
Kajli Teej – Observed by women for their husband’s long life, influenced by Bikaner region.
Janmashtami (Kon Janm Atham) – Popular as a youth festival; initiated in Shivtalav by Sohan Ji Bhai Saheb, son of Bhabhut Singh Ji. Traditional omens: frog = good year, farka (lizard) = bad year.
Ganesh Utsav – Introduced from Maharashtra; first organized by Madan Singh, son of Raghunath Singh Ji with village youth.
Dev Jhulni Ekadashi (Revadi Utsav) – Processions of Thakur Ji (by Vaishnavs) and Charbhuja Ji (by Rawals).
Goga Navami – Worship of Gogaji, serpent deity, with milk offerings.
Shraddh (Pitru Paksha) – Ritual offerings to ancestors, with kheer and churma.
Sharadiya Navratri – Worship of Devi’s nine forms. On Ashtami, Paatvi family performs Kheda Devi homa. Garba dances are now also held, adopted from Gujarat.
Diwali – Celebrated from Dhanteras to Labh Panchami; houses lit with deepmalikas. A special local tradition is Konki Diwali on Kartik Purnima.
Maha Shivratri – Nightlong bhajans of Lord Shiva; Bakla prasad in morning. This format was introduced by Sohan Ji Bhai Saheb.
Holi & Holika Dahan – Celebrated with geer dances starting from Khuta Pacham. Multiple geers are dedicated to Charbhuja, Mahadev Ji, Ramdev Ji, Momaji, Magra Mahadev Ji, Kuanwa Mataji, etc. Cold food (thanda khana) is customary.
The sacred identity of Shivtalav is defined by three great symbols:
Magra Mahadev – narrating the story of origin and protection,
Sevtalav’s Sovalio (Charbhuja Nath) – binding the community with oath and offerings,
Shiv of Shivtalav – symbol of moksha, final liberation and bliss.
As local tradition says:
"Shivtalav is not just a nagari; it is moksh talav anand – the land where the cycle of life attains its final goal of peace."
The presence of the Sapt Rishi traditions within Shivtalav represents the community’s pride (आन), honor (बान), and dignity (शान). Their legacy reminds the people that they are custodians not only of land but also of a profound spiritual lineage.
At the very heart of Shivtalav lies Shiv bhakti, practiced in three major forms:
Magra Mahadev Ji – also called Bileshwar Mahadev. Some believe the name derives from Bilva patra offerings, while others connect it to the valorous Bilojī (martyrs) or Vīreshwar, another name of Shiva. This temple has two Veer memorials inside, a subject of local research. A unique observance is Aluna Somvar (post-new moon Monday), when special rituals and simple food (Aluna Bhojan) are offered.
Shivtalav Mahadev – located within the village, where Rudrabhishek is performed, especially on Shivratri when the community gathers to worship under a silver canopy.
Katbeshwar Mahadev – primarily worshiped by Parthiya Dhani families, the chief shrine lies in Gudalās hills. Devotees offer wooden horses (nowadays brass or metal), symbolizing martial devotion. A secondary shrine exists in Sosavaton ka Bas.
Charbhuja Nath – the main temple in the village center. Traditionally, after Janaiu Sanskar, young Rajpurohit boys visiting Kashi are brought here, marking this temple as a spiritual gateway.
Thakur Ji – temple in Suravaton ka Bas.
Nandlal (Bal Krishna) – celebrated during Janmashtami with great joy.
Shivtalav hosts seven major forms of Goddess worship:
Rohini Mata – Kuldevi of Mutha lineage, main shrine at Sadri, a new shrine in Shiv Mandir complex.
Mahishasurmardini Mata – temple at Balavas, patron goddess of Malari families.
Varaha Mata – temple at Kuawa hill, worshipped by Sosavat families.
Kheda Devi – village goddess, shrine near the main gate (north side).
Sheetla Mata – two temples near Mahadev temple (south side).
Kali Mata – temple behind the house of Shri Babu Singh Ji (son of Gulab Singh Ji).
Hinglaj Mata – shrine in Akhriyon ka Bas, near Narayanpuri household.
Additionally, shrines to Parvati, Rukmini, Ganga Maiya, Ashapura Mata and others reinforce Shivtalav’s identity as a center of Shakti worship.
Devotees observe Aluna Rot offerings on Tuesdays.
The oldest Hanuman temple is in Suravaton ka Bas (Nimbda wali pol).
The most famous shrine lies near the main village gate (south).
Other temples exist in Balavas (worshipped by Maru Kumhars), Meghwalon ka Bas, and in larger temple complexes.
Two temples in Meghwalon ka Bas.
One temple in Sadhvi Lakshmi Bharti Ji’s ashram.
A shrine at Magra Mahadev Ji temple.
Shanidev – worshiped on Saturdays.
Gogaji – worshipped on Gogaji Navami; temple near Shri Hammir Singh Ji’s residence.
A strong tradition in Shivtalav:
Jujhar Veer – two temples, one at Mahadev temple’s north (Jawat Singh Ji Ragawat family), another near Panchayat Bhavan (Vardi Singh Ji family).
Mamaji Bavsi – shrines at Khimavat family (Rampuri Bera) and Hamawala Bera (Suravat family).
Bilojī (martyr) – shrines in Mundara complex (Pitoyo Ji), invoked during animal diseases; also an idol in Magra Mahadev temple.
The distinction is preserved between:
Sati Pratha – burning with husband’s pyre,
Satitva – pious and virtuous living,
Sati Samarpan – self-immolation as divine protest.
Important sites:
Earliest Sati Mata shrine – a Raika woman before Rajpurohit arrival.
Moti Seri Panighat – Manavat and Suravat family sati shrines.
Tanka Chabutra – four sati shrines.
Male Jeevit Samadhi tradition – e.g., Shri Ranchhod Ji Vaishnav.
Jodwala family – two sati shrines (Jod and Lataada).
Sadhvi Lakshmi Bharti Ji – born as Laxmi Bai in Sindarli, married to Jethu Singh Ji Suravat of Shivtalav. After his death, she renounced worldly life, took diksha from Sant Fula Bharti Ji (Haka Maharaj), and established spiritual centers at Shiv Mandir, Magra Mahadev, Biliyan, and Sindarli. Her samadhi is in Shivtalav.
Other revered saints include:
Sant Shri Khetaram Ji Maharaj,
Shiksha Sarathi Atmanand Saraswati Ji,
Local community saints such as Sainji Maharaj, Darji Pinaj, Kumhar Sariya Devi, Meghwal Raghunath Pir, etc.
Shivtalav is not just spiritually rich but also economically significant. Its people have carried the legacy of राजपाठ (jagir management), agriculture, trade, and education, while balancing devotion with practical livelihood.
The flag of Shiv Nagari Shivtalav continues to wave proudly in Rajasthan’s cultural and economic landscape.
Bhajans and ratri jagrans have been central to Shivtalav’s religious life since the era of Ramdev Ji. Notable early bhajanis include Moti Ba Suthar, Ram Ba Suthar, Chelo Ba Kumhar, Jivo Ba Raika, and Kan Ji Bhai Saheb.
In modern times, Sohan Ji Bhai Saheb, Mohan Sa, Mop Sa, and Mohan Bhai Sain carried forward the tradition. Shivtalav also produced bhajan samrats like Amrit Singh (son of Sabal Singh Ji) and Jagdish Kumar (son of Mohan Lal Suthar).
Genealogical and Family Structure
Jagaji Mutha’s descendants divided into five families (kootumbh):
Sausavat – Reside in the south, worship Parthiya Dhani and Varaha Mata (Kuawa Mataji). The Mailla Sausavats worship Varaha Mata alone.
Thadavat – Reside at Moti Seri’s entrance, the east, and Kotwali gali. Worship Charbhuja Ji (Shivtalav ke Sanwaliya Ji). Sub-families: Paatvi and Jodawala.
Ragavat – Live in the northeast, worship Shivtalav Mahadev Ji.
Manavat – Live in the north. Worship Parthiya Dhani; their sub-branch Barothiya worships Charbhuja Ji.
Suravat – Live in the west. Worship Parthiya Dhani. Sub-family: Khimavat.
The Paatvi system functioned like a republican model, much like the Paliwal Ganrajya. The Paatvi was the eldest or chosen leader, responsible for religious guardianship and administration.
Earliest known Paatvi: Madan Singh Ji, son of Bhur Singh Ji (Sausavat).
Later: Poker Singh Ji, son of Chiman Singh Ji.
Currently: Ashok Singh Ji, son of Sabal Singh Ji.
The word Paatvi comes from paat/pad (position, seat), and also means eldest (jyeshtha).
Shivtalav was under Sonigara Chauhans of Jalore. Local strongholds like Juna and Sadra villages show Chauhan presence. Key event: migration from Magra Mahadev site to current village location.
Shivtalav’s jagirdars aligned with Sisodia rulers of Mewar. During Maharana Mokal’s reign, their rights were confirmed. Key event: construction of the Thakur Ji temple.
Now under Jodhpur Rathores, Shivtalav flourished. Jodhpur issued tamrapatras and authorized the Tripolia Hathai.
Key events:
Shelter to Meenas – Fugitives from Ghanerao were hidden in Shivtalav. The villagers never betrayed them despite long siege. Eventually betrayed by an outsider baniya, the Meenas were massacred. In gratitude, Meenas swore never to steal in Shivtalav and vowed eternal aid to its people. Their idols remain in the Hathai.
The Hira Patta Episode – Hari Patta, a violent strongman, extorted villagers. United, the villagers drank a vow of salt and hunted him down. His famed horse failed him, and he was killed at Nadawala. Lesson remembered: “Gumaan to Hira Patta ka bhi na chala, tu kya cheez hai?”
The Baroth Struggle – Orphaned brothers, raised in Netra, returned to claim their hereditary rights. Their struggle (barahath) succeeded, and they became known as Barothiyas.
After Independence, Jodhpur merged into Rajasthan. Jagirdari was abolished, Panchayati Raj was introduced (1959, inaugurated by Prime Minister Nehru at Nagaur).
Shivtalav initially fell under Latara Panchayat, later became its own Gram Panchayat with four villages (Shivtalav, Dungarli, Malari, Biliya).
First sarpanch: Bhopal Singh Ji (son of Guman Singh Ji). Successors included Sohan Singh Ji, Sabal Singh Ji, Jai Singh Ji, Prem Kanwar Ji, Dhanna Ram Ji, Chhail Kanwar Ji, Rekha Kanwar Ji, and currently Jagdish Singh Ji (son of Hari Singh Ji).
The Mutha Rajpurohits trace their gotra to Rishi Piplad, son of Rishi Dadhichi. Legend says Dadhichi’s wife was about to perform sati while pregnant; the unborn child was preserved in a pipal tree, hence named Piplad.
The Mutha family originated from Paliwal Brahmins, renowned for their republican state (ganrajya) where each newborn received one coin and one brick from every household.
Somaji Mutha himself served the Sonigara Chauhans of Nadol, working in accounts (mutha = accountant). Awarded five villages (Ghenari, Pilovani, Roongri, Vandar, Sivas), he gained prominence. Sivas later went to Jagaji. Nadol traditions and Jalore’s Veeramdev Raso even mention Somchandra’s valor, identifying with Somaji.
Our Nadi (Lake) – Lifeline of the village, nurturing people, cattle, and gods alike.
Our Hathai (Chowhta) – The public square, heart of festivals, decisions, and honor.
Our Somela (HoMela) – Unique Shivtalav tradition: ceremonial welcome of guests or wedding processions.
Our Jhaki Valdo (Banyan Tree) – The giant banyan at the gate, symbol of endurance.
Our Wala and Run – Natural streams and run (seasonal rivers) forming Shivtalav’s protective moat, likened to Prayagraj’s confluence.
Shivtalav’s political history reflects a transition from jagirdari rule to grassroots democracy. Initially part of Jalore State and later Mewar and Marwar, Shivtalav’s jagirdars legitimized their estate with copperplate grants (tamrapatras).
Sabal Singh Ji (son of Megh Singh Ji) – A freedom fighter, jailed during the Emergency, and longest-serving sarpanch. Known as “Komred ki Awaaz” of Bali, his role in awakening political consciousness remains written in golden letters.
Rajendra Singh Ji (son of Amar Singh Ji) – Chairman of Goseva Aayog with State Minister rank, worked extensively on cow research and welfare.
Jai Singh Ji (son of Hari Singh Ji) – A strong Congress leader, twice MLA candidate from Bali, Block Congress President, PCC member, and former sarpanch.
Gulab Kanwar Ji – Wife of Jai Singh Ji, served as Bali Pradhan and earlier as Panchayat Samiti member.
Bhopal Singh Ji (son of Guman Singh Ji) – First sarpanch of Shivtalav, also Bali’s Up-Pradhan; honored by a Russian delegation.
Shivtalav has given leaders across parties:
Bharat Singh Ji (BJP) – Chairman, State Animal Welfare Board (Govt. of India), recipient of National Dairy Award.
Yashpal Singh Ji (Congress) – Active in Pali Kisan Congress, former Panchayat Samiti representative.
Arvind Singh Ji (BJP) – District-level post holder, active in Bali assembly.
Khushal Singh Ji (Congress) – State member, Environment Cell.
Ganesh Singh Ji (NCP) – State General Secretary.
Parbat Singh Ji (NCP) – Bali Block President.
Shivtalav’s sons and daughters carried their devotion, courage, and work ethic far beyond the village, shaping an impressive economic journey.
Migration to Deshavar (देशावर):
In search of livelihood, villagers first moved towards Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Mumbai, and Maharashtra. Many began with rasoi (kitchen) work – from catering to tourism kitchens. This hard work laid the foundation of some of the biggest catering businesses in Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Mumbai’s first lodge by Shri Lakshman Singh Ji (son of Shri Kesar Singh Ji) became a shelter for Shivtalav people and others.
Shri Poonam Singh Ji (son of Shri Pratap Singh Ji) emerged as a true Bhamashah, donating a health center (now Sabha Bhavan) to the village.
Business Expansion:
Shivtalav’s entrepreneurs later ventured into textiles, kirana, imitation jewelry, medical stores, marble, and construction. Today, their presence stretches beyond Gujarat–Maharashtra into Southern India.
In Manohar (Maharashtra), Shri Devi Singh Ji (son of Shri Achal Singh Ji) owned one of the earliest shops.
Shri Bagh Singh Ji (son of Shri Kesar Singh Ji) established a cotton mill in Mumbai, bringing global recognition. He also donated a Primary Health Center to the village.
Hotel industry pioneers Shri Bhupal Singh Ji and Shri Sohan Singh Ji (sons of Shri Man Singh Ji) donated for three schools and the cremation shed.
Shivtalav’s contribution in government sectors is remarkable, spanning education, police, administration, medicine, and the army.
Education & Administration:
Shri Sabal Singh Ji (first teacher), Shri Raghunath Singh Ji (SDM), Shri Hari Singh Ji (Tehsildar), and many others carried the torch.
Police & Revenue:
Shri Juhar Singh Ji and Shri Lakmaram Ji in police, Shri Madan Singh Ji and Shri Magan Singh Ji (RIs) in revenue – their services inspired youth.
Medical Contributions:
From Dr. Shiv Singh Ji (son of Shri Bhupal Singh Ji) to Dr. Bharat Singh Ji, Dr. Yashpal Singh Ji, and Dr. Anusha Ji, Shivtalav produced healing hands for society.
Military Service:
Pride swells as Shivtalav remembers Veerma Ram Ji (Army), Amrit Singh Ji (Air Force), and Rakesh Singh Ji (Merchant Navy).
Other Sectors:
Contributions in Banking (Narpat Singh Ji, Ravindra Singh Ji), Engineering, Chartered Accountancy, Postal, and Railways add to Shivtalav’s diversified role in governance.
In law, advocates like Shri Narendra Rajpurohit Ji and Shri Sumer Singh Ji stand tall.
In literature, Shivtalav gave writers like Shri Devi Singh Ji (honored by literary institutions) and journalists like Shri Karan Singh Ji.
In arts and writing, new generations continue Shivtalav’s cultural renaissance.
Shivtalav’s youth did not stop at India’s borders. Today, names like Shri Vinod Singh Ji, Shri Sanjay Singh Ji, Shri Shaitan Singh Ji, and Shri Ketan Singh Ji shine abroad, carrying the identity of Shivtalav on international soil.
Shivtalav’s story is one of faith, valor, and continuity. From Jagaji Mutha’s chhadi ropan in 1301 CE to its proud festivals, temples, and political leaders of today, Shivtalav embodies Rajasthan’s living heritage.
As villagers proudly say:
“Shiv Nagari Shivtalav ki aan, baan aur shaan – hamari nadi, hamari hathai, aur hamara itihaas!”
