Kaithal city was first a part of Kaithal district in Haryana and then a part of Kurukshetra District until 1^st November 1989, after which it became the headquarters of Kaithal District once again. The city is known for its popular destinations and temples such as Anjani Teela, Ancient Khandeshwar Temple, Gyrah Rudri Shiva Temple, Shree Gyarah Rudri Mandir, Tomb of Razia Sultana, Kaithal Fort etc. which suggests that the place has a lot of historical significance. Let’s explore some of the most eventful aspects of Kaithal history today.

Finds a Mention in Hindu Epic Mahabharata

It is believed that Kaithal was founded by the Pandava Emperor of Mahabharata named Yudhishthira. The place was earlier called Kapisthal, or the home of Kapi. Kapi was one of the names of Hanuman and the city has a temple dedicated to the mother of Lord Hanuman – Anjani. People also believe that Hanuman was born here, and a temple named Anjani Tila is built in that location. A holy place called Vridhakedara of Kaithal mentioned in ancient text Vaman Puran. It is an important destination in the 48 Kos Parikrama pilgrimage as well.

Delhi Sultanate Conquest

Before conquering Delhi, Timur halted in Kaithal in 1398 and the area became a part of Delhi Sultanate. Many tombs of Sufi Saints such as Sheikh Sala -ud-din of Bhalkh were built in this region during the 13^th century.

Development under Mughal Emperor Akbar  

Akbar renovated the city and built a fort. The city was under the Sarkar of Sirhind as per texts of Ain-i-Akbari.  It is also mentioned that the city became an agricultural centre after a point.

Tomb of Razia Sultan

Razia Sultana was the Queen of Delhi Sultanate from 1236 to 1240. She was defeated in October 1240 after which, she escaped to Kaithal with Malik Altúniya. Her army left her and she was killed in November 1240. A tomb of Razia Begam was built in Kaithal after her death.

Falls under the Sikh

The Sikh ruler Bhai Desu Singh captured Kaithal in 1767. He belonged to the family tree of Bhais of Kaithal which had its roots in Bhucho, Punjab. It was one of the most powerful Cis-Sutlej states. The Sikh rulers continued ruling the region till 1843.

British Rule and Marathas

Kaithal was ruled by the Scindhia dynasty rulers who paid tributes to the Marathas. After the Second Anglo-Maratha War of 1803-1805, the Marathas lost Kaithal to the British.  Bhai Udey Singh was the last King of Kaithal who died in March 1843. People of Kaithal took part in the rebellion of 1857 actively and in 1867, Kaithal became a municipality. The fort of the Bhais exists even today and important Sikh rulers took on the title Bhai.

These were some of the most important events in Kaithal History. Keep researching to learn more about this historic city.