History of Rajasthan Rajputs are most common in Rajasthan from its long past history and emerged to held their sway over different parts of Rajasthan from about 700 AD. Before that, Rajasthan was a part of several republics. It was a part of the Mauryan Empire. Other major republics that dominated this region include the Malavas, Arjunyas, Yaudhyas, Kushans, Saka Satraps, Guptas and Hunas. The Rajput clans ascendancy in Indian history was during the period from the eighth to the twelfth century AD. The Pratihars ruled Rajasthan and most of northern India during 750-1000 AD. Between 1000-1200 AD, Rajasthan witnessed the struggle for supremacy between Chalukyas, Parmars and Chauhans. Around 1200 AD a part of Rajasthan came under Muslim rulers. The principal centers of their powers were Nagaur and Ajmer. Ranthanbhor was also under their suzerainty. At the beginning of the 13th century AD, the most prominent and powerful state of Rajasthan was Mewar. People of Rajasthan In the past the people were known from their profession which symbolises their caste. This system has now been broken. Today, individuals have the freedom to opt for any profession irrespective of caste. The profession based caste system has now been transformed into birth-based caste system. People of various castes and sub-castes reside in Rajasthan. The Rajputs, who were the rulers of most of the erstwhile princely states of Rajasthan, form a major group of residents of Rajasthan. Rajputs are generally stoutly built people of good height. The Rajputs generally worshipped the Sun, Shiva, and Vishnu. Vedic religion is still followed by the Rajputs. All the auspicious and inauspicious activities are done in accordance to the Vedic traditions. The other castes found in Rajasthan are as folows: Brahmins : Their main occupation was worshipping and performance of religious rites. Vaishya : These people generally took up business as their source of livelihood. These days they are settled in every nook and corner of the country. There is a large group of agricultural castes to be found in Rajasthan. These people depend on Agriculture for their livelihood . Some of these castes are Jat, Gurjar, Mali, Kalvi etc. Irrespective of the birth-based caste system, each individual is free to follow the profession / occupation as per choice, in modern Rajasthan. Many tribes are also found in different parts of Rajasthan. These tribes have their own social systems and customs. Some of the commonly known tribes are Meena, Bhil, Garasia, Sansi, Kanjar.