The foundation of Jhargram
According to local tradition, the Mughal general Man Singh came to Bengal during Emperor Akbar's reign and sent Sarveshwar Singh to subdue the rulers of Junglekhanda. After his victory, Sarveshwar adopted the title Malla Deb and established Jhargram as his capital, beginning the Malla rule in the region.
Resistance and the British period
The Jhargram Raj family took part in the Chuar resistance to defend its independence. The East India Company advanced into the area around 1767; after conflict and surrender, Jhargram was recognised as a zamindari estate under British rule and its ruler retained the title of Raja.
A period of development
After Raja Narasingha Malla Ugal Sanda Deb attained majority in 1929, the estate entered a major phase of civic development. Schools, colleges, hospitals and public institutions grew with support from the royal family and estate administration. Among them were Kumud Kumari Institution, Jhargram Raj College, Vidyasagar Bani Bhaban and the institution later known as Rani Binode Manjuri Government Girls' School.
Service, culture and public life
Raja Narasingha was remembered for supporting education, health care, sport, literature and charitable institutions through donations of land and funds. Later generations, including Birendra Bijoy Malla Deb, continued their involvement in public life. Jhargram's royal, tribal and forest heritage remains an important part of the district's identity today.
Adapted from the former Jhargram.in article. Source cited there: Department of Archives and Jhargram Raj Palace.
