Devaria, Kachchh

History

Devaria it is one of the 19 villages founded by Kutch Gurjar Kshatriyas or Mistris, as they are known in Kutch. These group of warriors were also skilled architects and have contributed to the erection of many historical monuments of kutch.

These Mistris first moved into Saurashtra in early 7th century and later a major group entered Kutch in 12th century and established themselves at Dhaneti. Later from 12th century onwards they moved to settle themselves between Anjar and Bhuj and founded the villages of Anjar, Sinugra, Khambhra, Nagalpar, Khedoi, Madhapar, Hajapar, Kukma, Galpadar, Reha, Vidi, Ratnal, Jambudi, Devaliya, Lovaria, Nagor, Chandiya, Meghpar and Kumbharia. During the years of laying of railway lines in British India around 1850-1930 many members of Mistris of Kutch moved out and made themselves into big railway contractors throughout India. Some of them entered into Coal mines business as well. The Mistris of these villages have built and developed the old infrastructure around the villages in late 1890 from their earnings during those time. However, majority of old houses of Mistris with unique architect were destroyed in the earthquake of 26 January 2001.

Notable Persons

Some of these Mistris made it big during early days of Railways construction by British during 1860-1930. Among whom Lalji Hirji Chauhan of Devaliya was given title of Rai Sahib by British during 1920 for his magnificent works in railways construction. There is also a road by his name in Ranchi, named Lalji Hirji Road.

Dana Premji Maru, Ratna Mepa, Ghela Devraj Chawda & his sons Karamshi Ghela, Viram Ghela all established colliery at Jharia along with other fellow Mistri during 1910 to 1920.

Temples

At entrance of village is a very famous and big temple complex known as Khakchok Mandir. The main saint name is Shree Ramchandra Das Maharaj. At present time this temple is good for village peoples there all facility for water,food and rest-house in this temple. Every year on Guru Purnima celebration is held in this temple and many people form far and near, attain this celebration.

Kuldevi temples of many clans of the Kutch Gurjar Kshatriyas communities can also be found in the village. The Kuldevi temples of Chamunda Mata of Chawdas, Taunks, Sikotar Mata of Marus are located in the village. Further, the Mistri community have also built a Hanuman temple, few years back from their personal donations. Also there are parias and deris of Dadas and Satis of their community in a walled compound in back side of village, where many members of different clans come to pay their respects. These parias are several centuries old.