Ghorpade

Ghorpade is a surname and family name found among Marathas, Marathi Brahmins, Mahar and even Chambhar caste in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka     and may refer to members of the Ghorpade Dynasty.

Ghorpade Dynasty
The Ghorpade Dynasty, notable for its origins in the Maratha military leadership and connections to the Sisodia Rajput lineage, are descendents of the Sisodia Rajputs of Chittor, the Bhonsales. The Ghorpade Dynasty ascended after the Battle of Khelna during the 15th century. During the battle, Karnasinh Bhosale, a Maratha commander, tied a rope to his pet monitor lizard, named Yaswanthi, to scale the walls of Vishalgad Fort, enabling a crucial siege. This innovative tactic marks the origin of their name, "Ghorpade", derived from the Marathi word for monitor lizard. However, subsequent stories of Ghorpade warriors riding war lizards are considered myths.

The Ghorpades played a prominent role in several key conflicts within the Deccan region, exerting considerable influence through their military, administrative, and social endeavors. The house's ascension gave rise to the royal families that would later govern the princely states of Mudhol and Sandur, along with the jagirs of Dattawad, Gajendragad, Ichalkaranji, and Kapshi, which were crucial in shaping the historical landscape of South-Central India.

Progressive Governance
The territories under Ghorpade rule were known for their progressive policies, particularly in areas such as education, social reform, and economic development. These initiatives reflect the enlightened approach to governance that characterized the dynasty's rule.

Cultural Contributions
The Ghorpade dynasty was also a significant patron of the arts and culture, promoting traditional Marathi culture while fostering developments in classical music, dance, and the fine arts. Their patronage extended to building temples, supporting festivals, and providing scholarships for students to study abroad.

Economic Impact
Economically, the Ghorpade rulers encouraged the development of local industries, particularly textiles in Ichalkaranji, which is now known as the Manchester of Maharashtra. They played a pivotal role in establishing cooperative societies to support agriculture and industry, thus improving the local economy and standard of living.

Historical Relationships
The Ghorpade dynasty maintained strategic alliances with other major Maratha clans and intermarried with prominent families, including the Peshwas. These alliances bolstered their political and military standing in the region, helping them to navigate the complexities of Maratha politics and maintain autonomy against the backdrop of the Mughal Empire and later the British Raj.

Legacy and Modern Relevance
Today, the legacy of the Ghorpade Dynasty is evident in the continued prosperity and cultural diversity of their former territories. The dynasty's commitment to public welfare and development has set a precedent for modern governance in the region. Memorials, museums, and cultural trusts continue to preserve and celebrate the heritage of the Ghorpade Dynasty, making it an integral part of South-Central India's historical narrative.

Notable people

 * Santaji Ghorpade (1645–1696), Maratha warrior, chief general of Rajaram Maharaj
 * Yeshwantrao Ghorpade (1908–1996), last raja of Sandur
 * M. Y. Ghorpade (1931–2011), politician from Karnataka
 * Jayasinghrao Ghorpade, Indian cricketer
 * Sujay Ghorpade (born 1965), Indian table tennis player
 * K. V. Ghorpade (1919–1997), Indian pathologist