Ra Graharipu

Who is Ra Graharipu?

Ra Graharipu was an Abhira king and ruler of Saurastra. He had a good relationship with Lakha, the son of King Phula of Kutch, and other kings such as Turks. Somnath Temple was under the Graharipu. He also fought Mularaja Solanki in A.D 961 and was also known as Chudasama. The Abhiras grew very powerful during the reign of Graharipu in the middle of the 10th century AD. Graharipu built the ancient fort in Junagarh town known as Uparkot. Graharipu who is described as a Abhira chief, he was anti-Brahmin and used to eat beef, and plundered the pilgrims to Prabhasa tirtha. In order to end this menace the Chalukya Mulrãja, king of Anahilapãtaka marched with his army against Graharipu. Grãha rlpu strengthene his position by securing assistance from Laksha son of Phula, king of Kachchha- desa, also known as Kutch .A great battle was fought on the banks of the Jambumãlj river in which Laksha lost his life and was taken prisoner". Ra Graharipu was defeated by Mularaja who then went and worshipped Somanath.