Nandgaon State

Nandgaon State (Hindi: नांदगाँव), also known as Raj Nandgaon, was one of the princely states of India during the period of the British Raj. Nandgaon State, in present-day Rajnandgaon District of Chhattisgarh, was the only town of the state and the seat of the ruler's residence. The state was founded by Mahant Prahlad Das Bairagi in 1765 A.D. Nanadgaon State was ruled by Vaishnav Brahmins (Bairagi Brahmins).



History
The Foundation of the Estate of Nandgaon hails back to Prahlad Das, a Shawl Merchant who in the 18th century had Migrated from the Punjab region. When he settled in Ratanpur the Area was Ruled by the Bhonsle Clan of Marathas.

Prahlad Das Belonged the Bairagi sect whose members practised strict celibacy. The word Bairagi is derived from the Sanskrit Vairagya, Meaning Freedom From Passions. Succession was ensured by Chosen Disciples, Chela, Who became Mahants and Inherited all the possessions of their predecessor. Prahlad Das became wealthy and after his death his disciple Hari Das was given power and influence by the local Maratha ruler who Promoted him as his Rajguru (Spiritual Advisor).