RAS question
Who founded the city of Jodhpur in 1459 CE?
Correct answer: (C) Rao Jodha.
Rao Jodha, a fifteenth-century Rathore chief, founded Jodhpur in 1459 CE.
Explanation
Rao Jodha is the founder of Jodhpur. Rajasthan Foundation says the history of Jodhpur centres on the Rathore clan and credits Rao Jodha, its chief, with the city's origin, stating that he founded Jodhpur in 1459 and that the city is named after him. Rao Jodha shifted focus from Mandore, his then capital, and began building a new fort to its south. That site was an isolated rocky height with strong natural defences, which explains why the foundation of Jodhpur is closely linked with Mehrangarh Fort as well as with the Rathore consolidation of Marwar.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Rao Ridmal was Rao Jodha's father associated with Mandore, not the ruler credited with founding Jodhpur in 1459.
- (B) Rao Maldeo belonged to a later, sixteenth-century phase of Marwar history, after Jodhpur had already been founded.
- (D) Rao Satal was a later Rathore ruler, whereas the founding of Jodhpur is specifically credited to Rao Jodha.
Concept
This tests the RAS Rajasthan history theme of medieval Rajput polities, especially Rathore Marwar and its capital formation. It recurs because city foundations, ruling houses and major forts are standard factual anchors in Rajasthan history questions.