The state was founded in 1626 and it came under British control, with other territories in Bundelkhand, by the Treaty of Bassein, concluded with the Peshwa in 1802. The ancient title of the family was Maharaja Rao Raja, but in 1865, the Government recognised only the title of Maharaja as hereditary. The Maharaja maintains a military force of 945 cavalry, 5203 infantry, and 124 guns, and he is entitled to a salute of 15 guns (in 1893). The motto of the family is Wir dalap Sharandah ("Lord of the Brave Army, Giver of Refuge").Rao BHAGWAN RAO, 1st Rao of Datia and Baroni 1626/1656, received Datia and Baroni from his father (Raja Bir Singh Deo of Orchha) in 1626 and established his own state. He died 1656
