Jamkhandi.
THIS is one of the estates evolved out of the Sangli Saranjam, in the year 1812 A. D. Although the several members of the Patwardhan family formed one undivided Hindu family, yet they had lived and worked independently of each other for some time. Naturally they yearned for formal separation. The Miraj branch had formally separated from the parent stock in 1808 A.D. The example, thus set, was followed by other members of the family. The sons of Parashuram Bhau divided their father's estate in 1811 A.D. into two portions, Jamkhandi being held by the elder son, Ramchandra Rao and Tasgaon by the younger. The latter lapsed to the British Government in 1848 A.D., as the last holder died without any male issue.
Thus Ramchandra Rao may be said to be the founder of the Jamkhandi house. He was succeeded by his son, Gopal Rao, who died in 1840 A.D. His son, Ramchandra Rao Appasaheb, was put in possession of the Estate. He ruled till 1 896 A.D. and introduced several administrative reforms in the State. He was succeeded by his son, Parashuram Rao alias Bhausaheb Patwardhan, who was entrusted with full powers on the 4th of June 1903 A.D.
The chiefs of the Patwardhan family, except the younger branch of Kurundwad, have received sanads from Lord Canning permitting them to adopt; and Jamkhandi has thus a recognised permisson to adopt.
The State of Jamkhandi is in alliance with the British Government by the treaty of 1819 A.D. and has to pay a tribute of Rs. 20>5 15 per annum.
The villages of Jamkhandi are situated mainly within the Belgaum, Bijapur, and Dharwar districts. The estimated area of the State is 524 square miles, with a total population of 1,05,357 souls. The estimated gross revenue is about eight lacs of rupees.
The Chief of Jamkhandi being a first class treaty Chief in Southern Mahratta country, is entitled to exercise full jurisdiction in civil as well as criminal matters.
