The Princely State of Kuba was one of the former princely states of India which existed during the rule of the British Empire in India. During the early 19th century, the region was appointed as one of the princely states of India under the indirect rule of the British administration. The region covered a total area of 2.5 sq miles and comprised of a total population of 314 in the year 1931. The taluka of Kuba was located in the Lakhapadar Thana and included only a single village, which was situated around 15 miles towards the southwest of Bagasra. The native state of Kuba was an enclave that lied in the major block of the princely state of Junagadh, to the west of most other estates in Lakhapadar Thana.
The Lakhapadar Thana, which was scattered over a total area of 111 sq miles and comprised of a population of 13,155 in the year 1931, was located in southeastern Kathiawar. Almost all of the 21 estates in the state included around 247 bhagdars and 41 talukdars in 1940. The territory was bordered by the Amreli Division of Baroda, although some of them bounded on Vala Kathi talukas and the princely state of Junagadh. Lakhapadar thana also implemented jurisdiction over the princely state of Dhasa that belonged to the state of Rai Sankli. It also exercised jurisdiction over Bhayavadar which belonged to the territory of Kotda Pitha for more than 60 years.
The former princely state of Kuba was incorporated as a part of the Baroda Agency, which was a sub division of the Western India States Agency. Later the territory was merged with the state of Gujarat. The region was also under the administrative control of the Western Kathiawar Agency and the Lakhapadar Thana as well.
History of Princely State of Kuba
The princely state of Kuba was claimed by more than one native prince, who were officially known as shareholders. There were 3 such shareholders in Kuba state, who held the style of Majmudars. The territory was purchased during 1834-1835 by Varjdas Rangildas from the Nawab of Junagadh state. Varjdas Rangildas was a Majmudar of the Gaekwar of Baroda. His descendants have ruled over the region ever since. The shareholders of Kuba were primarily Nagar Brahmans. Kuba state was a non- jurisdictionary princely state. The state of Kuba implemented restricted jurisdictional powers until the year 1920, after which the state was withdrawn due to mismanagement. The estateholders of the state received a cash allowance from the princely state of Baroda and also received Majmudari allowances from some tributaries of Baroda in Kathiawar. Kuba paid annual tribute or udhad to the princely state of Junagadh. The territory of Kuba was attached to Junagadh state according to the Attachment Scheme of 1943.
Accession of Princely State of Kuba
After the withdrawal of the British and the independence of India on 15th August 1947, the state was acceded to the newly formed Union of India, also known as the Dominion of India.