Rajouri’s rich history spans rulership by Palas and the Jarral Rajputs from the 12th to 19th century. Under Dogra Rajput Dynasty, Jarral Rajputs held significant Jagirdari and Zaildari in the region. Noted in Chinese traveler Hiuen-Tsang’s 632 A.D. travelogue, Rajouri was part of Kashmir’s dominion, later encompassed in the Darabhisanga domain from Poonch to Kashmir. Laharkote in Poonch and Rajouri emerged as dominant states. Historian F.E. Pargitor notes Aryan emigrants settling in Rajouri and Poonch. In the 4th century B.C., Rajouri was part of the federal political setup in India’s northwest, flourishing during Alexander’s invasion and thriving as a prominent trade center in the Mauryan period.
In the 2011 census, Rajouri boasted a population of 37,552, while within its municipal limits, it stood at 41,552. The male population comprised 57%, with females at 43%. Notably, Rajouri flaunted an impressive 77% literacy rate, surpassing the national average of 75.5%. Male literacy soared at 83%, while female literacy stood at 68%. Around 12% were under 6 years old. The predominant ethnic groups are Gujjars and Paharis. Hinduism prevails as the primary religion in Rajouri, embraced by 57% of the populace, followed by Islam at 37.08%. Christianity and Sikhism make up 0.51% and 5.09% of the population, respectively.
Rajouri sits at 33.38°N 74.3°E with an average elevation of 915 meters (3001 feet). Hosting the esteemed Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU), it offers a diverse array of Diploma, UG, and PG courses. Additionally, the district boasts the Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri alongside several other reputable degree colleges. These educational institutions enrich the region, nurturing academic excellence and fostering a brighter future for students across various disciplines within this vibrant district.
Rajouri, 154 Kms from Jammu, houses the district headquarters and spans thirteen Tehsils and nineteen Blocks. Diverse communities—Gujjars, Bakerwals, Paharis, Punjabis, Kashmiris, and Dogras—harmoniously coexist. Gujjars, residing on mountain slopes, cultivate small plots, living in modest dwellings with cattle, many below the poverty line. Bakerwals, akin to Gujjars, are nomadic with goat herds, migrating for pastures. Paharis, dominating the population, reflect a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh cultures, united by the Pahari dialect. Dogri speakers inhabit Sunderbani, Kalakote, Nowshera; Kashmiris in Thannamandi, Behrote, Budhal’s upper reaches, assimilating into the vibrant Pahari cultural tapestry.
