Various traditions, customs, judgements, and values are upheld in a royal family. However, these measures do not always seem justified unless one cautiously observes or narrates the reasoning, actions, or thought processes behind them.
“Sahis’ Anecdotes” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi narrates a few anecdotes from Tamkuhi Raj, a province in northern India. The stories often concern the royal staff, cooks, pets, and commoners, alongside the accounts of the rulers, queens, and their children.
Anecdote I
A train trip from Lucknow to Gorakhpur with a retinue of staff was nothing unusual for the Raja of Tamkuhi. All was well until another Raja wanted to board the train, and there was a miscommunication.
“Clash of Egos” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi narrates how the steam from the train, the people at the station, and the staff of the Raja of Tamkuhi all added to the heat of the situation, which led the Raja of Tamkuhi to point his pistol at the other Raja.
Anecdote II
Back in the 1920s, racing tracks were a rarity, even among royalty. Maharajas very rarely built trails, but most of the time, gardens or preexisting paths were repurposed for racing.
“Horse & Car Track” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi narrates the story of how the first car racing track in Tamkuhi, originally a horse track, was used to entertain & serve the Maharaja of Tekari.
Anecdote III
Raja Sahib and his nephews visited the animal fair in Sonepur when Raja Sahib noticed nearly two hundred cows being shipped. He enquired to be informed about their harsh fate.
“A Herd of Cows” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells the story of how the Raja of Tamkuhi made a deal that saved the lives of innocent animals and made a cherishable memory that lasted through time.
Anecdote IV
On a foggy winter morning, Raja Sahib meets a servant carrying wood to Qazi Sahib’s home. Upon enquiry, Raja Sahib was told that the wood was purchased.
“Wood for Qazi Sahib” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi shares the anecdote showcasing how loyal the members serving the royal family were. It also shows how Raja Sahib always rewarded loyalty above anything else.
Anecdote V
Sometimes, good company and their counsel can save one from making drastic and life-changing decisions. It is also true that decisions made in a fit of anger are not wise.
“Punishing the Pelters” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells the story of when Raja of Tamkuhi was attacked. If not for Babu Kodai Roy & Qazi Sahib, a few lives would have been ravaged.
Anecdote VI
It is usually ignorance and a lack of proper education that push individuals to act in ways that harm and put others at risk. The only counter is to conduct a grassroots movement and educate everyone possible.
“Mandatory Education” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells the anecdote of how the Raja of Tamkuhi was urged to enforce the rule that all children should be educated while declaring that the province would provide for their needs.
Anecdote VII
Standing up for themselves or their kin has always been the case in Tamkuhi. Especially when a person is accused of something wrong or for no reason.
“The Whipping Story” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi shows how Ghulam Ali, who was helping fix a broken carriage, stood up to fight for his innocent brother.
Anecdote VIII
Segregating the elite and commoners has become a common practice over time. Every event seems to be organised in such a way. This was the same in Gorakhpur.
“Two Shamianas” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells how the divide between elites and commoners was removed due to a misunderstanding clubbed with the decision of a king to stick with his people.
Anecdote IX
The Raja of Tamkuhi hosts a feast for his friends, & family. A special menu is prepared, and one particular dish requires fresh fish.
“An Auctioned Fish” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells the story of what two servants did when only one fish was available.
Anecdote X
Often, it is presumed that the wealth held by the Raj is that of the Rajas. Therefore, many believe the Raja is a wealthy man who is often accountable to no one regarding his finances.
“The Musical Show” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells the story of how the Raja of Tamkuhi was held accountable for his expenses when he hoped for a private musical show.
Anecdote XI
The mention of a marathon makes our minds think of Greece, which is similar to what wrestling does for South Asia. The sport in itself found approval from the ruling class of India and was a part of any kingdom, big or small.
“Punishing the Pahalwan” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells the anecdote of how a Raja who is a patron to many wrestlers could not tolerate when one of the wrestlers misbehaved.
Anecdote XII
Exploring unattended things of the past might not only yield tokens but, at times, even introduce us to memories and, sometimes, people.
“The Forgotten Contact” by Vaidurya Pratap Sahi tells the story of how a photograph from the past tells the story of Alex Aronson, who has been at Tamkuhi.
Looking forward for the book to know more about the anecdotes and other related topics of interests.
These real stories make Raja Sahib of Tamkohi Raj, Raja Inderjeet Pratap Sahi , taller than other Raj Shahis.He was famous for his bravery ,courage, judgment and cultural values.
This anecdote made me to take interest in the genealogy of "Tamkuhi Raj", which further me interested in the history of 'Raja Fateh Sahi'. I'll be continuing on this series hoping to get some more interesting anecdotes❣️
Raja sahib of Tamkohi Raj was very impressive and popular in his Raj shahi, therefore he couldn't tolerate the abusive language for his people.
Thanks Lord, the whole issue has been resolved amicably.