Pabuji is a folk‑deity of Rajasthan, worshiped in the historic region of Rajputana. His epic narrative is performed by Bhopa poet‑singers and recorded in texts such as the Pabuprakasa and the Nainsi ri Khyat.
Early life
Pabuji was said to be the son of Dhandal Rathore, a Rajput of Kolu, and a celestial nymph who promised to return as a mare when he turned twelve. He grew up with four companions—Chando, Dhebo, Salji Solanki, and Harmal—who accompanied him in his exploits.
His first notable act was confronting the Khinchi subclan of Chauhan Rajputs, leading to a marriage alliance that later turned hostile, prompting Pabuji to secure the magical black mare Kesar Kalami from the Charan lady Deval.
Life and work
Pabuji’s adventures include overthrowing Mirza Khan of Patan, bathing in the sacred lake of Pushkar, and receiving aid from the snake‑god Gogaji Chauhan. He promised Deval protection in exchange for the mare and later embarked on a quest to retrieve she‑camels from the demon king of Lanka, defeating Ravana and returning the camels to Kelam.
Further episodes recount his involvement with the Sodha princess Phulvanti, a disrupted wedding, and a series of battles against the Khinchi clan, culminating in his death when a heavenly palanquin carried him away after a final combat with Jindrav Khinchi.
Legacy and memory
Pabuji’s martyrdom site at Kolu is the main shrine commemorating his death by Jindrav Khinchi. Numerous shrines across Rajasthan, neighboring Indian states, and Sindh in Pakistan honor him. The epic is visually preserved in the Pabuji Ki Phad scroll painting, displayed internationally, and continues to be performed by Bhopa singers, keeping the folk narrative alive.
His story remains a central element of Rajput folklore, influencing cultural practices and religious devotion in the region.
Based on: the Wikipedia article (CC BY-SA 4.0) — facts from that source; edited and translated by Times of Rajasthan.