The Rathors of Marwar emerged as one of the most important Rajput ruling houses of medieval Rajasthan. Their power was centred in Marwar, a region corresponding broadly to present-day western Rajasthan. The Rathors claimed descent from the ancient solar dynasty and traced their lineage to Kannauj. According to tradition, after the fall of Kannauj in the late twelfth century, the Rathors migrated towards western Rajasthan and gradually established themselves in the region. The foundation of Rathor power in Marwar is generally associated with Rao Siha in the thirteenth century. He established his authority around Pali and laid the basis for the expansion of the Rathor principality. His successors consolidated their position through warfare, alliances and control over important settlements and trade routes.