Categories
History and Culture

Maharanas of Udaipur

“Many Indian capitals have greater claims of size or grandeur, many are wealthier by far, But none can boast a proud heritage. His Highness Maharana of Udaipur, direct descendant of the Sun God, a natural leader by birth and tradition of all the Indian princes of the Hindu faith…….and no city could be more lovely”   
                                                                      -The Secrets of India
                                 ( Gaumont-British Picture Corporation Limited, 1934)

Maharanas of Udaipur were indeed magnificent. Hereby we bring all about the Maharanas of Udaipur.

Eternal Mewar

                    Maharana Bhim Singh of Mewar (r. 1778-1828)


Maharana Bhim Singh Ji, Son of Maharana Ari Singh II, was the First Maharana of Udaipur and Twenty-Fifth Maharana of Mewar. He became King at a minor age of 10 years and during his minor years of age and even adulthood, he ruled under the inspection of his mother Rajmata Sardar Kunwar Jhali Ji. He inherited an unstable kingdom and it was the same during his reign. Marathas took off from the region, taking along all the riches and farmers too abandoned the region. Apparently, Maharana too was very broke to even get his sons married, which arguably were 32 in number. To deal with the financial mess, Maharana signed a treaty with Britishers which gave them full power over the kingdom. According to the treaty, a British agent will be appointed in the kingdom to see all the affairs with no interference of the King. It was a fortunate stroke of serendipity when Col. Tod was appointed as the British agent and during his time in Udaipur, kingdom experienced good returns on revenue. He believed that Maharana was rather slothful and least interested in ruling the kingdom effectively. Maharana died at an age of sixty in 1828.

     

Eternal Mewar

                    Maharana Jawan Singh of Mewar (r. 1828- 1838)


Maharana Jawan Singh Ji, son of Maharana Bhim Singh Ji, inherited a bankrupted kingdom and ruled for a very short time span of 10 years. The treaty signed by Maharana Bhim Singh Ji turned out to be insignificant as it did not serve the purpose. Maharana Jawan Singh Ji too tried hard to lift kingdom financially but failed and kingdom did not prosper significantly. At a young age of 17, Maharana died with no designated Heir.


                    Maharana Sardar Singh of Mewar (r. 1838-1842)



Due to the failure of the preceding king to choose an heir, Maharana Sardar Singh Ji, the successor of Maharana Sangram Singh Ji II, was chosen as the King. He then went on to rule Udaipur but he died only after 3 years of sitting on the throne and left behind obsolescent kingdom.

Eternal Mewar

                    Maharana Swaroop Singh of Mewar (r. 1842-1861)



Maharana Swaroop Singh Ji, younger brother of Maharana Sardar Singh Ji, was adopted and appointed the Heir as Maharana had no son. Swaroop Singh Ji inherited an unstable kingdom but brought about some reforms to get the state back on track. He introduced a new coinage, outlawed “Sati” tradition and brought some administrative reforms. He also gained the trust of Britishers by terminating rebellion in Nimbahera and Neemuch and providing the roof to British refugees. Kingdom started uplifting. He died soon after adopting Shambhu Singh as his appointed heir.

 

Eternal Mewar

                    Maharana Shambhu Singh of Mewar (r. 1861- 1874)



Maharana Shambhu Singh Ji, the successor of Maharana Sangram Singh Ji II, became a minor king of the comparatively progressive kingdom and when he attained full power, introduced various policies and reforms and the state blossomed. He got Military reassembled under his rule, formalized various policies to arrange administrative resources, institutionalized offices for temples and holy places and the first-ever school for girls was established in the state. “Sati Pratha” was on the path of termination as a legal practice and fines were introduced for practitioners. Infrastructure saw a surge this time as roads and railway tracks were constructed. He died at an early age of 27 years, leaving behind no heir.


Eternal Mewar

                    Maharana Sajjan Singh of Mewar (r. 1874- 1884)



Maharana Sajjan Singh Ji, the first cousin of Maharana Shambhu Singh Ji, inherited the kingdom after Shambhu Singh Ji’s death. Under his rule, true prosperity set its foot in the kingdom. Development of railway tracks, roads, and water supply took place, Schemes for afforestation, farming techniques, and irrigation were formalised, di-siltation of Lake Pichola was done post- floods in the region, the magnificent Sajjangarh Palace aka “monsoon palace” was built and Udaipur became the second city in India to have the Municipal Corporation after Bombay. Medical and educational institutions were developed, corruption was checked and guilty were executed. On the contrary, Maharana had a profound fondness for Art and Culture and he used to compose Dohas and Sawaiyas in Thumri, Folk, and Ghazal style. The book “Haqiqat Bahida” was the version of his daily journal. He had a short yet a remarkable reign period of a mere 10 years and these 10 years are written in Gold in the history of Udaipur.


Eternal Mewar

                    Maharana Fateh Singh of Mewar (r. 1884-1930)



Maharana Fateh Singh Ji, the descendant of the fourth son of Maharana Sangram Singh Ji II, was adopted by Maharana Sajjan Singh Ji as his appointed heir. He shaped and brought to life all his vision during his reign. He worked towards the path of the betterment of kingdom by modernizing and improving roads, railways, settlements, medical and educational facilities. He built the Majestic Shiv Niwas Palace, which is now a luxury hotel. Fateh Sagar Lake too came into existence after the extension of Dewali Lake when Connaught dam was built. He was a true Suryavanshi King, who did not believe in the graciousness of the “the Queen”. With an extraordinary life as “the Maharana”, he died at the age of 80 years.


Eternal Mewar

                    Maharana Bhopal Singh of Mewar (r. 1930-1955)



Maharana Bhopal Singh Ji, son of Maharana Fateh Singh Ji, became king when India was struggling for independence. He wholeheartedly supported the political and social modifications that were taking place in the country. He institutionalized schools and colleges in the kingdom, especially for girls and also took care of the natural beauty of Udaipur. He constructed Bhopal Singh Dam and several projects for afforestation in the Aravalli region. After independence, he merged the kingdom with the Rajasthan Union and was appointed as “Maharaj Pramukh” of it by Indian Government. Even though being physically inefficient, as he was paralyzed from the waist down, he was no less than any ruler in terms of greatness and courage. He adopted Bhagwat Singh as his appointed heir and died soon after.


Eternal Mewar Blog

                    Maharana Bhagwat Singh of Mewar (r. 1955-1984)



Maharana Bhagwat Singh Ji, the fourth son of Maharana Sangram Singh II, steered the kingdom according to the changing times as independent India was witnessing a number of transformations then. In 1970, Royal titles and grants were being abolished and Maharana became Mr. Bhagwat Singh Mewar. A true visionary who believed in the welfare, he decided to sell the royal forts and palaces in order to maintain them the way they were. Jag Niwas was converted into Lake Palace Hotel and other estates on the shore of Lake Pichola like Fateh Prakash and Jag Mandir too were sold off. He died in 1984 and thus was the last Maharana of Udaipur.


With the intellect and initial efforts of our Kings, Udaipur is now amongst the most beautiful cities in the world where people live in harmony with each other. Culturally, traditionally, naturally and in every aspect, a city could be, Udaipur is perfect!

 

Sources:

http://www.eternalmewarblog.com/rulers-of-mewar/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Udaipur_State#Maharanas

Categories
History and Culture

Mewar in the History of the World | In the Words of Ancient Travellers

Mewar and its lineage have been in light since ancient times for its greatness and grandeur. In classical India, it was said, that “The Maharana of Udaipur is the Sun of Hindutva.” Many ancient travelers visited our land and wrote about the glory and dignity of the state of Mewar. This time we bring you the excerpts (translated in English) from various ancient “Safarnamas” in which the visitors from faraway lands sang about the glory of Mewar.

Xuanzang– The traveler from China

About– He was a Buddhist monk, scholar, and traveler and visited India in 621 AD. He, in his book, mentioned about Vallabhi (presently a district in Gujarat) which was once the capital of ancestral kings of Udaipur. After the rampage and destruction in the city due to some battle, Mewar was properly formed.

Mewar in the History of the World
Source: Pinterest

Excerpt– “The lifestyle of people is somewhat influenced by Malwa region. There are undoubtedly 100 millionaires. The precious goods from all over the world can be seen here. The current king is the nephew of King Shiladitya of Malwa. His name is Dhruv Pat, and he is cheerful and, a bit, hot-tempered man. He seems to be least interested in ruling the kingdom. Every year, he holds a congregation, and he distributes precious jewels and exquisite food for seven days. He adores all the saints and deities with three dresses and medicines or equally valuable jewelry made of all seven kinds of precious stones. The king finds kindness as the greatest and he truly respects all those who are regarded as highly intellectual in the kingdom. He also honors all the monks and priests who come from foreign lands.”

Sulaiman-Al-Tajir – The traveler from Iran

About– Sulaiman was Muslim merchant, traveler, and writer from Iran and used to write in the Arabic language. He visited India and China in 851 AD. His Arabian works were translated in French and English by a French writer, Eusebius Renaudat.

Mewar in the History of the World
Source: WikiVisually

Excerpt– “People of India and China believe that there are four most powerful kings in the world. In descending order of their power, the four kings are:

1) The King of Arabia

2) The King of China

3) The King of Greece

4) Balhara (the King of Mewar)

The Balhara is quite famous in India. All the Kings in India rule independently and are under no other king but they believe him to be the greatest. They honour him greatly. Like the King of Arab, he too distributes the gratuity lavishly. He owns many elephants and horses and possesses a ludicrous amount of treasure. Many of these kings lived for many years and some even ruled more than 50 years. Such is his generosity that even though the state is surrounded by enemy states, Balhara never orders the attack”

*Balhara is not any king particularly but all the kings of the clan were referred as Balhara.

François Bernier– The traveler from Paris

About– Mr. Bernier was a French physician and traveler. For a brief period of time, he was the personal physician of Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. After Dara Shikoh’s death, he was appointed to the court of Emperor Aurangzeb where he served for 12 years. He stayed in India from 1652-1669. He wrote about his experiences in India in his book, “Travels in the Mughal Empire” and wrote the following excerpt about Mewar and its bounty.

Mewar in the History of the World
Source: Alchetron

Excerpt– “There are more than 100 Kings who do not pay“Khiraj”. They are scattered all over the state with some being near and far from Agra and Delhi. Among them, 15-16 kings are unbelievably rich and strong, Especially, “Rana”, who was known as the “King of Kings” formerly and is known to be the descendant of King Porus*. If Rana, Jai Singh (King of Alwar) and Jaswant Singh (King of Marwar), join hands against Mughal Empire, they can be a huge threat to Mughal Empire because at a time, they possess, with them, the ability to take 20,000 soldiers to a battle. Nobody is as capable as these soldiers. They are known as “Sawaar-Rajput” (as in mounted on horses) and their warrior craftsmanship has been inherited from their warrior ancestors. The “Jagir” is given in the state at only one condition that whenever Times call (battle or a war), they should at once go wherever king orders them to.”

* In Col. Tod’s times, Sisodia Clan of Mewar claimed lineage from King Porus but these claims were based only on the fact that names of the descendants had supposed similarity with King Porus’s name.

Charles Umpherston Aitchison– Lieutenant Governor of Punjab from Scotland

About– Mr. Aitchison was born in 1832 in Edinburgh. In 1885 he took India’s first Civil Services Examinations and secured the fifth position. After several positions in and around Amritsar, he went on to become Lieutenant Governor of Punjab. He is also the founder of infamous Aitchison College, Lahore which was founded in 1886.

Mewar in the History of the World
Source: Revolvy

Excerpt– “The Royal Clan of Udaipur is the most prestigious and supreme amongst all the Rich Rajputs of India. King of Udaipur is said to be the descendant of the Ayodhya’s Raja Ram. This Royal Clan was founded by Raja Kanaksen of Vallabhi in 144 AD. The Kings of Dungarpur and Pratapgarh emerged from this Clan. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who founded the power of Marathas, was the descendant of this clan. None was a dominion in India which could fight Muslims (Mughals) with such valor and bravery as this clan did. They took pride in the fact that they never married any of their daughters with a Muslim (Mughals) King and for quite some time, broke all the marriage-related affairs with those Rajput dominions who married off their daughters to Muslims (Mughals).”

John Malcolm– The Governor of Bombay from Scotland

About- Sir John Malcolm was born in 1769 in Eskdale, Scotland. He arrived at Madras in 1783 and was positioned as a regimental soldier in the Army of East India Company. He was appointed Governor of Bombay in 1827. He finally went back to Britain in 1831. In his memoir, “Central India,” he wrote the following excerpt related to Mewar.

Mewar in the History of the World
Source: Wikpedia

Excerpt- He wrote about the King Of Malwa, Mahmood Khilji that “Khilji was captured by Rana Kumbha of Chittor and after some time he was mercy-released by him and his territories too were given back to him. Almost all the memoirs written till this time, have in them that how Rajput Kings used to have a huge victory over Muslim Kings again and again.”

Abul Fazl– The Author of Akbarnama

About- Shaikh Abu al-Fazal ibn Mubarak was the Prime Minister of Akbar and Author of the official written record of Akbar’s days as a Monarch. He was also amongst the nine gems of Akbar. The following excerpt is from Akbarnama.

Mewar in the History of the World
Source: Baha’i Culture

Excerpt- “After Badshah’s Procession, even the Kings, who never served beneath any King, accepted to serve Akbar. But Rana Udai Singh, the oldest, the bravest and the one who built an empire through mountains, denied serving Badshah. As a result, Badshah had to capture the Fort of Chittorgarh.”

And so there might be very few Arabic, Persian, Urdu and Hindi books of Indian History which does not have in them the Greatness of Ranas of Udaipur written. There are numerous reasons as to why their greatness is so much celebrated. Firstly, The Chandravanshi and Suryavanshi Kings were said to be “The Greatest” in ancient India, especially the descendants of Raja Ramchandra and Royal Clan of Udaipur is said to be amongst the very first branches of this dynasty. And secondly, there are numerous accounts in history where this dynasty showcased its gallantry and valor by fighting Mughals bravely rather than surrender. Mewar and its Kings were, in a true sense, Royal because from generation to generation, each and every king brought nothing but prosperity and richness to Mewar.

Categories
More

Different names of UDAIPUR and the reasons behind them

Now that you’ve reached here after reading the title, I’m sure you must have guessed some of these names of Udaipur but there are more names of the city then you actually know. And while we talk about these names there are various reasons behind every name there is of the city. Udaipur is a huge tourist attraction and it is kept safely in the bucket list of all the wanderers from all around the world. The city attracts lots of travelers from different parts of the world and thus these different names provide them with various stories that tell the tale of history and culture of the city.

Let us move forward to know why Udaipur is gifted with the number of synonyms that it has and what story each name is going to tell us.

 

The city of Lakes a.k.a Jheelo ki Nagri

Different names of Udaipur and the reasons behind them
Picture by: triphopp

It is the most common name of the city. Almost every resident of Udaipur and even many tourists know that Udaipur is called the ‘City of Lakes’. Apparently, Udaipur has been gifted with a lot of lakes and that is the reason why it is known as the City of Lakes. But do you know almost all of these lakes are artificial or man-made?

Also read: The System of Lakes in Udaipur 

These lakes were constructed by the kings and rulers of Mewar (Udaipur was a part of Mewar back before the 13th century. The residents used to suffer from the problems like water shortage and poor sewage system. They had to survive only on rainwater. To overcome the problem, the rulers constructed these lakes and at present, they form a great lake system which comprises of seven prominent lakes namely Lake Pichola, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, Fateh Sagar, Badi, Madar and Udai Sagar. These lakes form a chain in the saucer-shaped Udaipur valley in such a way that the water keeps moving forward and doesn’t drown the city. Great mind back then eh?

Venice of the east

Different names of Udaipur and the reasons behind them
Picture by: deep_721

Before I tell you why Udaipur is known as ‘Venice of the east’, we need to slightly move our attention from ‘Venice of the east’ to Venice. Venice is the city of Italy which is considered as the most beautiful city in the world. This entire city is surrounded by water and is known as floating city.

Now, there are several reasons why Udaipur is called ‘Venice of the east’. Firstly Udaipur is so beautiful that in a state of a compliment it is compared to Venice. Another reason is that like Venice, Udaipur is also surrounded by water. Water as in lakes. And due to reasons as such, Udaipur would have been named as ‘Venice of the east’.

Kashmir of Rajasthan

Different names of Udaipur and the reasons behind them
Picture by: Krishna mundra

There are many possible reasons why Udaipur is called ‘Kashmir of Rajasthan’. One reason amongst all these is that Kashmir is considered as the most beautiful city in India. So as Kashmir is to India, Udaipur is to Rajasthan. Apart from that Kashmir is known for its landscapes, scenic beauty, lake and ever-green fields. Now, as we are reading this we are able to compare Kashmir from Udaipur. Udaipur also is rich when it comes to beautiful landscapes, breathtaking views and of course lakes. One more reason that associates Kashmir to Udaipur is that both of these cities are situated on valleys that results in their outstanding beauty.

White City

Different names of Udaipur and the reasons behind them
Picture by: Saurabh patwari

Some of us don’t know that Udaipur is also known as ‘White City’. The name got its existence from back then when the kings and rulers made palaces and forts in Udaipur made up of white marbles. As a result, the city is completely filled with Rajput-style palaces and forts. The center attraction of the white city is the palace situated right in the center of the city which is City palace. Apart from City palace, there are other white palaces as well, such as Jag Mandir, Lake Palace, etc. From that part of the city, if you are able to capture an aerial view, you will observe that most of the houses and other buildings of the city are white. White being the color indicating peace and harmony, Udaipur is appropriately named after it.

The romantic city of the east

Different names of Udaipur and the reasons behind them
Picture by: bruised passports

There isn’t the need to explain the reason behind this one. Udaipur is one such city that takes away all your worries and fears and no matter where you belong from, Udaipur is a home for everyone. The beauty and landscapes of Udaipur capture every couples’ heart and keep it forever. The palaces and the forts add a touch of royalty to their romance. With such amazing grandeur and breathtaking atmosphere, no wonder Udaipur is called as the ‘Romantic city of the east’. From all over the world people come to celebrate their moments of love in Udaipur. It gives them the essence of their relationship and helps them make the most out of it.

 

Udaipur is not just a city. It’s a feeling. It’s a feeling with a different meaning for every individual that visits this amazing city. Thus, to justify these feelings, there are different names given to the city.

What’s your favorite name of Udaipur and why? Tell us in the comment section.

Categories
History and Culture

Udaipur- Then, Now and Further

On this day, 18 April, The Foundation Day of Udaipur- let us know about our beautiful city of lakes. Udaipur- Then, Now and Further!

Then-

We all know that Maharana Udai Singh II founded Udaipur in 1553 but do you know how? In the 16th century, Maharana Udai Singh II wanted to move his capital from Chittaurgarh due to ongoing attacks of Mughal. One day while hunting in the foothills of the Aravali Range, Udai Singh Ji came upon a monk who blessed him to build a palace at a spot which is now Pichola. He rejected the idea of building it at Ayad as it was the flood-prone area at that time. Further, to protect Udaipur from the enemies he built a six-kilometer-long wall with main gates known as Surajpole, Chandpole, Udiapole, Hathipole, Ambapole, Brahmpole and so on. The area within the wall is still known as the old city. Udaipur remained safe afterward as it was a mountainous region and it was difficult for the Mughals to carry their heavy weapons and horses up there.

Udaipur- Then, Now and Further
Source: Wikipedia

Our ancestors put in great mind in the making of Udaipur. The majestic beauty and safety of the city were all in their brains back then. There’s a reason why there are so many man-made lakes in Udaipur. In ancient times, people of Udaipur had no source of water apart from rainwater. To solve this problem man-made lakes were formed which made a lake system with seven lakes. All these lakes were interconnected to each other so that in case of heavy rainfall, the water can travel further and doesn’t drown the city. The lake system comprises of Lakes Pichola, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, Fateh Sagar, Badi, Madar and Udai Sagar. All the lakes of Udaipur form a chain in the saucer-shaped Udaipur valley.

Timeline of Udaipur

1553 – Founded by Udai Singh II and Ruled by Sisodia clan of Rajput for next 265 years.

1678 – Fateh Sagar Lake built by Maharana Jai Singh which was improvised later by Maharana Fateh Singh.

1818 – Became the British princely states under British rule.

1884 – Ruled by 73rd Rana when Udaipur saw major development with railway, college, schools, hospitals, and dispensaries all established.

1947 – After independence, the Maharaja of Udaipur granted the place to the government of India. Mewar was merged into the state of Rajasthan.

Udaipur- Then, Now and Further
Photographer: Lala Deen Dayal
Udaipur- Then, Now and Further
Source: Udaipurbeats.com

Now –

After Independence, Udaipur is constantly developing and now has become the dream destination of every tourist in the world. Udaipur, also known as ‘The City of Lakes’ or ‘Kashmir of Rajasthan’ is the romance fantasy for all the couples out there. The city has also been excelling in its massive historic forts and palaces, museums, galleries, natural locations and gardens, architectural temples, as well as traditional fairs, festivals, and structures.

Udaipur- Then, Now and Further
Photographer: Lala Deen Dayal
Udaipur- Then, Now and Further
Source: Udaipurbeats.com

 

And further 

After the smart city mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 25 June 2015, there has been latest changes and developments that all the Udaipurites can see:

  • New public parking constructed at various places like townhall, Nagar Nigam parking near Gulab Bagh, etc.
  • Many tourist spots have been renovated lately. If you have noticed Fatehsagar has been renovated completely in last few years.
  • Place similar to Fatehsagar is been constructed around Daiji footbridge near gangaur ghat where you can enjoy your evenings by simply walking and pleasuring your eyes with the amazing view.
  • Udaipur is also developing itself with the comforting hospitality that it provides. The city is filled with all kind of hotels and places where a tourist can find peace and enjoy his journey.

Now that you know all about Udaipur, go and please your body and soul in the charm of the city.

Categories
History and Culture

गोरा-बादल | जानिए इन अविस्मरणीय राजपूत योद्धाओं के बारे में

मेवाड़ की पावन धरती ने कई महान एवं वीर, पराक्रमी योद्धाओं को जन्म दिया है। गोरा एवं बादल उन्ही वीर योद्धाओं में से एक है ,ये धरती हमेशा उनकी कृतज्ञ रहेगी! तो आइए जानते हैं उन दो महान योद्धाओं के बारे में जिनके लिए यह कहा जाता है कि जिनका शीश कट जाए फिर भी धड़ दुश्मनों से लड़ता रहे वो राजपूत

गोरा-बादलगोरा-बादल | जानिए इन अविस्मरणीय राजपूत योद्धाओं के बारे में

गोरा तत्कालीन चित्तौड़ के सेनापति थे एवं बादल उनके भतीजे थे। दोनो अत्यंत ही वीर एवं पराक्रमी योद्धा थे, उनके साहस, बल एवं पुरुषार्थ से सारे शत्रु डरते थे। गोरा एवं बादल इतिहास के उन गिने चुने लड़ाकों में से एक थे जिनके पास बाहुबल के साथ साथ तीव्र बुद्धि भी थी।

इनकी बुद्धि एवं वीरता ने उस असंभव कार्य को संभव कर दिखाया जिसे कोई और शायद ही कर पाता ।

ये ऐसे योद्धा थे जो दिल्ली जाकर खिलजी की कैद से राणा रतन सिंह को छुड़ा लाये थे ।  इस युद्ध में जब गोरा ने खिलजी के सेनापति को मारा था तब तक उनका खुद का शीश पहले ही कट चुका था, केवल धड़ शेष रहा था । यह सब कैसे संभव हुआ इसका वर्णन मैं मेवाड़ के राज कवि श्री श्री नरेन्द्र मिश्र की अत्यंत खूबसूरत कविता के छोटे से अंश से करता हूँ ।

बात उस समय की है जब खिलजी ने धोके से राणा रतन सिंह को कैद कर लिया था, जब राणा जी दिल्ली में खिलजी की कैद में थे तब रानी पद्मिनी गोरा के पास गयीं;  गोरा सिंह रानी पद्मिनी को वचन देते हुए कहते है कि –

जब तक गोरा के कंधे पर दुर्जय शीश रहेगा

महाकाल से भी राणा का मस्तक नही कटेगा ।।

तुम निशिन्त रहो महलो में देखो समर भवानी

और खिलजी देखेगा केसरिया तलवारो का पानी ।।

राणा के सकुशल आने तक गोरा नही मरेगा

एक पहर तक सर तटने पर भी धड़ युद्ध करेगा।।

एकलिंग की शपथ महाराणा वापस आएंगे

महाप्रलय के घोर प्रभंजक भी ना रोक पाएंगे ।।

 

यह शपथ लेकर महावीर गोरा, राणा जी को वापस चित्तौड़ लेन की योजना बनाने लगे ।

योजना के बन जाने पर वीर गोरा ने आदेश दिया कि –

गोरा का आदेश हुआ सजगये सातसौ डोले

और बांकुरे बादल से गोरा सेनापति बोले ।।

खबर भेज दो खिलजी पर पद्मिनी स्वंय आती है

अन्य सातसौ सतिया भी वो संग लिए आती है ।।

 

जब यह खबर खिलजी तक पहुँची तो वो खुशी के मारे नाचने लगा ,उसको लगा कि वो जीत गया है। लेकिन ऐसा नहीं था ,पालकियों में तो सशस्त्र सैनिक बैठे थे । एवं पालकी ढ़ोने वाले भी कुशल सैनिक थे ।।

और सातसौ सैनिक जो कि यम से भी भीड़ सकते थे

हर सैनिक सेनापति था लाखो से लड़ सकते थे ।।

एकएक कर बैठ गए, सज गई डोलियां पल में

मर मिटने की हौड़ लगी थी मेवाड़ी दल में ।।

हर डोली में एक वीर , चार उठाने वाले

पांचो ही शंकर की तरह समर भत वाले ।।

सैनिकों से भरी पालकियां दिल्ली पहुँच गई ।

जा पहुंची डोलियां एक दिन खिलजी की सरहद में

उस पर दूत भी जा पहुँचा खिलजी के रंग महल में।।

बोला शहंशाह पद्मिनी मल्लिका बनने आयी है

रानी अपने साथ हुस्न की कालिया भी लायी है ।।

एक मगर फरियाद फ़क़्त उसकी पूरी करवादो

राणा रतन सिंह से केवल एक बार मिलवादो ।।

 

गोरा-बादल | जानिए इन अविस्मरणीय राजपूत योद्धाओं के बारे में
Source: Manoj Chitra Katha

दूत की यह बात सुनकर मुगल उछल पड़ा , उसने तुरंत ही राणा जी से पद्मिनी को मिलवाने का हुक्म दे दिया । जब ये बात गोरा के दूत ने बाहर आकर बताई तब गोरा ने बादल से कहा कि –

बोले बेटा वक़्त आगया है कट मरने का

मातृ भूमि मेवाड़ धारा का दूध सफल करने का ।।

यह लोहार पद्मिनी वेश में बंदीगृह जाएगा

केवल दस डोलियां लिए गोरा पीछे ढायेगा ।।

यह बंधन काटेगा हम राणा को मुक्त करेंगे।

घुड़सवार कुछ उधर आड़ में ही तैयार रहेंगे।।

जैसे ही राणा आएं वो सब आंधी बन जाएँ।

और उन्हें चित्तोड़ दुर्ग पर वो सकुशल पहुंचाएं।।

 

गोरा की बुद्धि का यह उत्कृष्ट उदाहरण था । दिल्ली में जहाँ खिलजी की पूरी सेना खड़ी है, वहाँ ये चंद मेवाड़ी सिपाही अपनी योजना, बुद्धि एवं साहस से राणा को छुड़ाने में कामयाब हो जाते हैं। राणा के वहाँ से प्रस्थान करने से पूर्व वीर गोरा, अपने भतीजे बादल से कहते है कि –

राणा जाएं जिधर शत्रु को उधर न बढ़ने देना।

और एक यवन को भी उस पथ पावँ ना धरने देना।।

मेरे लाल लाडले बादल आन न जाने पाए

तिल तिल कट मरना मेवाड़ी मान न जाने पाए ।।

 

यह सुनकर बादल बोले कि –

ऐसा ही होगा काका राजपूती अमर रहेगी

बादल की मिट्टी में भी गौरव की गंध रहेगी ।।

 

बादल के ये वचन सुनकर गोरा ने उसे अपने हृदय से लगा लिया!!! लेकिन इस पूरी योजना का क्रियान्वय किस प्रकार हुआ इसका वर्णन महा कवि श्री श्री नरेंद्र मिश्र कि निम्न पंक्तिया करती है –

गोरा की चातुरी चली राणा के बंधन काटे

छांट छांट कर शाही पहरेदारो के सर काटे ।।

लिपट गए गोरा से राणा गलती पर पछताए

सेनापति की नमक हलाली देख नयन भर आये ।।

 

राणा ने पूर्व में जिस सेनापति का तिरस्कार किया था , संकट की घड़ी में आखिर वो ही काम आया ।यह देख कर राणा के नैन भर आए ।। लेकिन अब तक खिलजी के सेनापति को लग गया था कि कुछ गड़बड़ है ।

जब उसने लिया समझ पद्मिनी नहीँ आयी है।

मेवाड़ी सेना खिलजी की मौत साथ लायी  है ।।

 

तो उसने पहले से तैयार सैनिक दल को बुलाया और रण छेड़ दिया ।

दृष्टि फिरि गोरा की मानी राणा को समझाया

रण मतवाले को रोका जबरन चित्तोड़ पठाया ।।

 

उस समय राणा को सुरक्षित अपने देश पहुचना तथा शत्रु देश से निकलना अधिक महत्वपूर्ण था, राणा ने परिस्थिति को समझा और मेवाड़ की ओर प्रस्थान किया ।।

खिलजी ललकारा दुश्मन को भाग न जाने देना

रत्न सिंह का शीश काट कर ही वीरों दम लेना ।।

टूट पड़ों मेवाड़ी शेरों बादल सिंह ललकारा

हर हर महादेव का गरजा नभ भेदी जयकारा ।।

निकल डोलियों से मेवाड़ी बिजली लगी चमकने

काली का खप्पर भरने तलवारें लगी खटकने ।।

राणा के पथ पर शाही सेनापति तनिक बढ़ा था

पर उस पर तो गोरा हिमगिरि सा अड़ा खड़ा था।।

कहा ज़फर से एक कदम भी आगे बढ़ न सकोगे

यदि आदेश न माना तो कुत्ते की मौत मरोगे ।।

रत्न सिंह तो दूर न उनकी छाया तुम्हें मिलेगी

दिल्ली की भीषण सेना की होली अभी जलेगी ।।

यह कह के महाकाल बन गोरा रण में हुंकारा

लगा काटने शीश बही समर में रक्त की धारा ।।

खिलजी की असंख्य सेना से गोरा घिरे हुए थे

लेकिन मानो वे रण में मृत्युंजय बने हुए थे ।।

 

बादल की वीरता की हद यहा तक थी कि इसी लड़ाई में उनका पेट फट चुका था । अंतड़िया बाहर आ गई थी तो भी उन्होंने लड़ना बंद नही किया , अपनी पगड़ी पेट पर बांधकर लड़ाई लड़ी ।

रण में दोनों काका-भतीजे और वीर मेवाड़ी सैनिकों के इस रौद्र प्रदर्शन का वर्णन कवि नरेन्द्र मिश्र  इस प्रकार करते है-

पुण्य प्रकाशित होता है जैसे अग्रित पापों से

फूल खिला रहता असंख्य काटों के संतापों से ।।

 

वो मेवाड़ी शेर अकेला लाखों से लड़ता था

बढ़ा जिस तरफ वीर उधर ही विजय मंत्र पढता था ।।

इस भीषण रण से दहली थी दिल्ली की दीवारें

गोरा से टकरा कर टूटी खिलजी की तलवारें ।।

 

मगर क़यामत देख अंत में छल से काम लिया था

गोरा की जंघा पर अरि ने छिप कर वार किया था ।।

वहीँ गिरे वीर वर गोरा जफ़र सामने आया

शीश उतार दिया, धोखा देकर मन में हर्षाया ।।

गोरा-बादल | जानिए इन अविस्मरणीय राजपूत योद्धाओं के बारे में
Source: Roar Media

शीश कटने के बाद भी उन्होंने एक ही वार में मुग़ल सेनापति को मार गिराया था । इस अद्भुत दृश्य का वर्णन निम्न पंक्तियों में है ।।

मगर वाह रे मेवाड़ी गोरा का धड़ भी दौड़ा

किया जफ़र पर वार की जैसे सर पर गिरा हथौड़ा ।।

एक वार में ही शाही सेना पति चीर दिया था

जफ़र मोहम्मद को केवल धड़ ने निर्जीव किया था  ।।

ज्यों ही जफ़र कटा शाही सेना का साहस लरज़ा

काका का धड़ देख बादल सिंह महारुद्र सा गरजा ।।

अरे कायरो नीच बाँगड़ों छल से रण करते हो

किस बुते पर जवान मर्द बनने का दम भरते हो ।।

यह कह कर बादल उस क्षण बिजली बन करके टुटा था

मानो धरती पर अम्बर से अग्नि शिरा छुटा था ।।

ज्वाला मुखी फटा हो जैसे दरिया हो तूफानी

सदियां दोहराएंगी बादल की रण रंग कहानी ।।

अरि का भाला लगा पेट में आंते निकल पड़ी थीं

जख्मी बादल पर लाखो तलवारें खिंची खड़ी थी ।।

कसकर बाँध लिया आँतों को केशरिया पगड़ी से

रंचक डिगा न वह प्रलयंकर सम्मुख मृत्यु खड़ी से ।।

अब बादल तूफ़ान बन गया शक्ति बनी फौलादी

मानो खप्पर लेकर रण में लड़ती हो आजादी ।।

 

उधर वीरवर गोरा का धड़ अरिदल काट रहा था

और इधर बादल लाशों से भूतल पाट रहा था ।।

आगे पीछे दाएं बाएं जम कर लड़ी लड़ाई

उस दिन समर भूमि में लाखों बादल पड़े दिखाई ।।

मगर हुआ परिणाम वही की जो होना था

उनको तो कण कण अरियों के शोणित से धोना था ।।

मेवाड़ी सीमा में राणा सकुशल पहुच गए थे

गोरा बादल तिल तिल कटकर रण में खेत रहे थे ।।

 

एक एक कर मिटे सभी मेवाड़ी वीर सिपाही

रत्न सिंह पर लेकिन रंचक आँच न आने पायी ।।

गोरा बादल के शव पर भारत माता रोई थी

उसने अपनी दो प्यारी ज्वलंत मणियां खोयी थी ।।

 

धन्य धरा मेवाड़ धन्य गोरा बादल बलिदानी

जिनके बल से रहा पद्मिनी का सतीत्व अभिमानी ।।

जिसके कारन मिट्टी भी चन्दन है राजस्थानी |

दोहराता हूँ सुनो रक्त से लिखी हुई क़ुरबानी ||

 

तो ये थी मेवाड़ के अमर शहीद गोरा एवं बादल की गौरव गाथा 

ये है हमारे असली नायक जो की हमारे लिए हमेशा प्रेरणा के स्त्रोत है ।।

इनको पढ़ो, इनके बारे में जानो, इनके जैसे बनो जय मेवाड़।। जय हिंद ।।

 

स्त्रोत :

श्री श्री नरेन्द्र मिश्र

कवि श्री कुमार विश्वास

Categories
Travel

राजस्थान का बनारस – Ghats of Udaipur

उदयपुर के घाट

“ हमनें आपसे वादा किया था कि पिछले आर्टिकल कुछ ख़ास है ये इमारत – Ghanta Ghar  से हम उदयपुर से जुड़ी जानी-अनजानी जगहों, किस्से-कहानियों की एक सीरिज़ शुरू कर रहे है जो आप लोगो को अपने शहर से जोड़ने का प्रयास करेगी । ताकि आप अपने ही शहर को और अच्छे से जाने, उन जगहों की बात करें, वहाँ जायें, जो अब तक आपकी पहुँच से दूर थी । उन कहानियों और किस्सों को जीयें जो आपके दादा-परदादा, पापा-मम्मी सुनते और सुनाते आये है । “

उसी सीरीज़ में इस बार हम आपके सामने “उदयपुर के घाट – Ghats of Udaipur”   के बारें में कुछ जानकारियाँ और तथ्यों को लेकर आये है । उम्मीद करते है कि आप इससे अपना जुड़ाव महसूस करेंगे।

घाट की परिभाषा – घाट उन सीढियों के समूह को कहते है, जो किसी छोटे तालाब, झील या फिर किसी नदी के किनारे बना हुआ हो, घाट कहलाता है ।

उदयपुर में घाट की कमी नहीं है, यहाँ इतने घाट है कि अगर इसे ‘राजस्थान का बनारस’  बोला जाए तो कोई गलत बात नहीं होगी । पर देखा जाए तो कुछ दो या तीन घाट को छोड़कर बाकियों पर कभी बात हुई नहीं । शहरकोट के घरों में होती है, पर कहीं ये उन घरों तक ही सिमट के न रह जाए, इस बात का डर लगता है । उन दो या तीन घाट को अगर छोड़ दिया जाए तो बाकी बचे हुए घाट को बहुत कम लोग जानते है । आसपास बसे लोगो के अलावा शायद ही कोई जाता होगा । इसी वजह से कईयों की हालत ख़राब भी पड़ी हुई है । सिटी वाल के बाहर एक नया उदयपुर बस रहा है । ये उदयपुर शहर के, बाहर तो है, पर शहरकोट के लोगो से ज्यादा शहरी है । ये लोग उदयपुर घूमते है पर इन्हें उदयपुर के किस्से-कहानियों की ख़बर ज़रा कम है । इस सिरीज़ में फोकस इन्ही बातों पर रहेगा । ये सब रिसर्च करने के दौरान अच्छी बात ये जानने को मिली कि यंगस्टर्स इन सबके बारे में क्यूरियस है और बहुत कुछ जानना चाहते है पर उन्हें ये सब जानने और पढ़ने का प्लेटफार्म नहीं मिल रहा है । हमारी यहीं कोशिश रहेगी, आप लोगो की ये खोज हम तक आकर रुक जाए ।

हम आर्टिकल को उन घाट से शुरू करेंगे जो अब तक लिखे ना गए । अब आप सीधा घाट का रुख़ करिए और इमेजिनरी दुनिया में तशरीफ़ ले आइये ।

  • धोबी घाट : सबसे पहले बता दे कि इस घाट का आमिर खान से कोई लेना देना नहीं है । ये उदयविलास के पीछे की और पिछोला का आख़िरी घाट है । इसके बाद आपको और कोई घाट नहीं मिलेगा । यहाँ चूँकि धोबी कपड़े धोने आते है इसलिए इसका नाम धोबी घाट पड़ गया । यहाँ पास ही श्मशान घाट भी है, जहाँ आसपास बसे लोग अंतिम संस्कार की प्रक्रिया के लिए आते है ।Dhobi ghat
  • नाथी घाट : इस घाट की हमें एक शानदार स्टोरी पता चली । नाथी बाई नाम से एक औरत हुआ करती थी, 19वी सदी की शुरुआत में । ये घाट उन्ही के द्वारा बनाया गया । उनके कोई बेटा या बेटी नहीं होने से उन्होंने अपने पास रखे 10-20 रुपयों से ये घाट बनाया । एक आंटी हमें बताती है मेवाड़ी में, ‘नाथी बाई कहती ही कि अणा रिपया रा म्हूं कई करूँगा, म्हारो धाम तो अटे ही वणाऊंगा ।‘ और इस तरह उन्होंने अपने पास रखे कुछ रुपयों से ये घाट बनाया ।nathi ghat
  • महाराजा घाट : ‘महाराजा घाट’ को खोजने में हमें भी पसीना आ गया । ये घाट बहुत छोटा है और बहुत ही छुपा हुआ भी है । यहीं पास में वाळी बाई रहती है, उन्होंने ही इसके बारे में बताया । इस घाट पर पहले महाराजा/बाबा/योगी लोग आकर बैठा करते थे और नहाते थे । इसलिए ये महाराजा घाट कहलाया ।maharaja ghat
  • पंचदेवरिया घाट : गणगौर घाट के ठीक सामने आपको एक छोटा सा घाट दिखेगा जहाँ एक मंदिर भी बना हुआ है, दरअसल ये मंदिर नहीं बल्कि पांच छोटी छोटी देवरिया है, जिन्हें पंचदेवरियां कहा जाता है । उन्ही की वजह से इसे पंचदेवरिया घाट बोलते है । कुछ लोग इसे ‘फिरंगी घाट’ भी कहते है । यहाँ से आपको वाकई लगेगा की क्यूँ उदयपुर को हमने ‘राजस्थान का बनारस’ बोला ।panchdevariya ghat
  • हनुमान घाट : ये घाट तो आप सभी जानते ही होंगे । फ़िल्मी दुनिया की ‘रामलीला’ यहीं हुई थी । हिंदी फिल्म ‘रामलीला’ की शूटिंग इसी घाट पर हुई थी । हनुमान टेम्पल की वजह से इसका नाम हनुमान घाट पड़ गया । इसके ठीक सामने आपको गणगौर घाट दिख जायेगा ।

    hanuman ghat
    credit : inside_the _window (Instagram)
  • हामला हारो/रोव्णिया घाट(1) : अब आपको ले चलते है ‘हामला हारो/रोव्णिये/रोवनिये घाट’ पर । इसका नाम इसके काम को बयाँ कर रहा है । ‘रोव्णिया’ मेवाड़ी शब्द है जिसका मतलब होता है ‘रोने वाला’, और चूँकि ये पैदल पुलिया के सटा हुआ है और सामने की तरफ होने की वजह से इसे ‘हामला हारो’ यानि ‘सामने वाला’ घाट भी बोला जाता है । इस घाट पर डेथ के बाद औरतें रोती हुई आती है और फिर नहाती है, इस वजह से इसका नाम ऐसा पड़ा । इस घाट को हत्थापोल घाट से जोड़ने वाली पुलिया ‘दाइजी-पुल’ नाम से जानी जाती है, जिसे फूट-ओवरब्रिज भी कहते है । यहीं पर महादेव का मंदिर, एक स्कूल और कई होटल्स भी मिल जाएगी ।rovniya ghat
  • हत्थापोल(सत्यापोल) घाट : जगदीश मंदिर वाले छोर पर ‘दाइजी-पुल’ जहाँ बना है, उसे हत्थापोल घाट कहते है, पहले यहाँ घाट हुआ करता था जिस पर बाद में फुट-ओवरब्रिज बना दिया गया । ‘दाइजी-पुल’ और चांदपोल पुलिया के बीच के हिस्से को ‘अमर-कुंड’ बोला जाता है ।hattha pol ghat
  • रोव्णिया घाट(2) : पिछोला किनारे दो घाट ‘रोव्णिया घाट’ नाम से जाने जाते है । इस बात ने हमें भी पहले कंफ्यूज कर दिया । फिर बाद में पता चला दाइजी पुलिया के जगदीश मंदिर छोर वालों के लिए ये घाट रोव्णिया घाट है । और उस छोर वालों के लिए ‘हामला हारो’ घाट ‘रोव्णिया घाट’ है ।rovniya ghat
  • मांजी का घाट : ‘मांजी का घाट’ ही अमराई घाट है, अमराई होटल होने की वजह से आज के लोग इसे अमराई घाट से ज्यादा जानते है जबकि इसका असली नाम ‘मांजी का घाट’ है । यहाँ एक मंदिर भी है जिसे ‘मांजी का मंदिर’ बोला जाता है । अंतिम संस्कार के बाद जिस तरह औरतें ‘रोव्णिया घाट’ पर जाती है वही आदमी ‘मांजी का घाट’ पर नहाने आते है । यहीं पर पूजा का कार्यक्रम और सर मुंडन का काम होता है । यहाँ से पिछोला का 270 डिग्री व्यू आता है । यहाँ से गणगौर घाट, गणगौर बोट, सिटी पैलेस, लेक पैलेस और होटल लीला पैलेस को देख सकते हो । इसे ‘एक्शन उदयपुर’ के अंतर्गत डेवेलप किया गया उसके बाद से यहाँ काफी लोग आने लग गए । यहाँ यंगस्टर्स गिटार बजाते और गाना गाते हुए मिल जायेंगे ।

    manjhi ka ghat
    credit : le roi udaipur (facebook)
  • नाव घाट : कुछ सालों पहले तक नाव घाट से ही नावें चलाई जाती थी जो टूरिस्ट्स को पिछोला में दर्शन करवाती थी । बाद में इस घाट को प्राइवेट कर दिया । आज की तारीख में ये दरबार का पर्सनल घाट है । अब नावों का संचालन लाल घाट से होता है ।naav ghat
    nav ghat
    credit : crazyass_0318 (Instagram)

    nav ghat
    credit : crazyass_0318 (Instagram)
  • पिपली घाट : ये घाट आम लोगो के लिए खुला हुआ नहीं है । यहाँ सिर्फ सुरक्षा गार्ड्स को ही जाने की इजाज़त है । इसको ‘पिपली घाट’ यहाँ लगे हुए पीपल के पेड़ों की वजह से बुलाते है । इसके बाद से महल की दीवारें शुरू हो जाती है ।

    pipli ghat
    credit : sheer_khurma (Instagram)
  • बंसी घाट : बंसी घाट भी दरबार का पर्सनल घाट है जो दरबार के काम के लिए ही यूज़ होता है, यहाँ से लेक पैलेस के लिए नावें चलती है । इस घाट का नाम दरबार के ही बंसी जी के नाम पर पड़ा । ये घाट ‘गोल महल’ के नीचे बना हुआ है । यहाँ पर सुनील दत्त स्टारर ’मेरा साया’ की शूटिंग हुई थी ।

    bansi ghat
    credit : gauravmarwah.edtgm (Instagram)
  • लाल घाट : आज की तारीख़ में नावों का संचालन यहीं से किया जाता है । ये गणगौर घाट के पास ही बना हुआ है । यहाँ आसपास होटल्स और गेस्ट-हाउसेस होने की वजह से टूरिस्ट्स बड़ी मात्रा में आते है । एक वजह यहाँ मिलने वाली शांति भी है ।
    lal ghat
    credit : mr._dhawan19 (Instagram)

    lal ghat
    credit : mohaansr (Instagram)
  • गणगौर घाट : इसके बारे में अब क्या ही बताया जाए आपको । ये उदयपुर की पहचान है । यहाँ न जाने कितनी ही मूवीज़, सिरिअल्स, वेडिंग शूट्स हो चुके है । यहाँ एंट्री के तीन गेट्स है जिन्हें त्रिपोलिया बोला जाता है । यहाँ पर फेमस मेवाड़ उत्सव, गणगौर पूजा होती है, जो की देखने लायक है । कोई उदयपुर घुमने आता है तो एक बार गणगौर घाट ज़रूर जाता है । यहाँ बच्चो से लेकर बड़ो, देसी से लेकर विदेसी सब तरह के लोग मिल जायेंगे ।gangaur ghat गणगौर घाट की एक बात पता चली, 1973 से पहले गणगौर घाट इतना बड़ा नहीं था जितना आज दिखाई देता है । 1973 से पहले तक गणगौर घाट त्रिपोलिया तक ही फैला हुआ था, उसके बाद उसे आगे बढाया गया ।gangaur ghat
  • बोरस्ली घाट : गणगौर घाट से सटा हुआ घाट ‘बोरस्ली घाट’ के नाम से जाना जाता है । चूँकि यहाँ बोरस्ली के पेड़ बहुत है इसलिए इसका नाम ये पड़ा । ये गणगौर घाट से एक छोटी सी गुफ़ानुमा गली से जुड़ा हुआ है । इस घाट पर मंदिर बहुत ज्यादा है और हर शाम यहाँ आरती होती है । सुबह के वक़्त आसपास के बुज़ुर्ग लोग यहाँ आकर बैठते है और फिर बातों का दौर शुरू होता है । ( ये जानकारी हमें फेसबुक कमेंट्स से प्राप्त हुई, गोविन्द जी माथुर का हम शुक्रिया अदा करते है ।

ये सब लिखना तब ही आसान हो पाता है जब हमें वाळी बाई, राधावल्लभ जी व्यास, भरत जी जैसे लोग मिले । हम इन जैसे उन सभी लोगो का विशेष शुक्रिया अदा करते है जिन्होंने हमें अपना कीमती वक़्त दिया और हमारी भूख शांत की ।

bharat ji, radhavallabh ji, waali bai

ये कुछ घाट थे जिन पर हमने कुछ जानकारियाँ जुटाई और आपके सामने लेकर आये ।  कुछ और घाट भी है जैसे इमली घाट, बाड़ी घाट, पशु घाट उन पर हमें कुछ ज्यादा मिल नहीं पाया । अगर आप लोग उदयपुर के और भी घाट जानते है और उनसे जुड़ी कोई बात बताना चाहते है तो हमें कमेंट में ज़रूर लिख भेजिए । आपकी भेजी हुई इनफार्मेशन हमारे ही शहर के काम आयेगी ।

Categories
Udaipur Speaks

Happy Birthday Udaipur!! Celebrating Heritage and Rising

“ Aravali Ki Wadiyon Mein Janma, Sabhyata Ke Rango Mein Saja,

Itihaas Ke Panno Mein Lipta, Maharajao Ke Panth Mein Bandhaa,

Mewar Ki Rajdhani, Sundarta Se Sanjoya.

Sheher Kuch Anokha Sa, Pyaar Se Hai Piroya.”

udaipur is not a desert
Photo by: Tim Makins

Our beautiful Wonderland, Udaipur has turned 463 Years old. And, no wonder it’s the time of happiness and celebration for every native as our city has not only been through a lot of phases in all these years but it has also gained a lot of popularity in many sense.

When it comes to culture, heritage, traditions, and modernization, Udaipur has always shown its significance amongst everyone. Justifying its name meaning ‘Rise’, our city has always been open for all type of revolution.

And, on this special occasion, we would like to share a glimpse of information that probably everyone should know when it’s about Lake City:

History Pick-up

Founded in 1559, by Maharana Udai Singh II, Udaipur was established as the new capital of the Mewar Kingdom. And, behind the settlement of Udaipur, it was a sudden meet of Maharana Udai Singh with a hermit while hunting in the foothills of the Aravali Range. Their hermit blessed him and guided him to build a palace on the spot, assuring him it would be protected. Then, Udai Singh II consequently acknowledged a residence on the site. In 1567, Mughal emperor Akbar laid siege to the venerated fort of Chittor. At that time, to protect Udaipur from external attacks, Maharana Udai Singh built a six-kilometer long city wall, with seven gates, namely Surajpole, Udiapole, Chandpole, Hathipole, and so on. In today’s time, the area within these walls is known as the old city or walled city. And, being in the mountainous region, Udaipur always remained safe from Mughal influence despite extreme pressure.

Regarding other historical aspects, many other changes were seen before independence as well. As when it’s a catch of tourism, many foreign traders and personalities like Edward, Prince of Wales (1921), Lord Minto, Viceroy of India (1909), and several others visited Udaipur.

Udaipur’s Famous Catches

Known for its scenic locations, Udaipur is amongst the popular travel destinations to witness growing tourism each and every day. Astounding people through its cityscapes, Udaipur houses many beautiful places to look for like Lakes (Fateh Sagar, Udai Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, etc.), Palaces (City Palace, Monsoon Palace, etc.), Temples (Jagdish Mandir, Sahastra Bahu Temple, Eklingji, etc.), and much more.

In part of an economy, our city has a diversified base that includes Handicrafts Markets, Tourism, Metal & mineral industries, Agriculture and Retail sources.

In the scene of culture, our city has kept a balance between preserving the rituals and traditions of the past while influencing modern lifestyle and advancements. Dance forms like Kalbelia, Ghoomar, Kachchhi Godi, Bhavai, etc. are still performed in tribal communities.

And, when it comes to art, miniature paintings are amongst the most famous developed here. To display the forms of Rajasthani tradition, some local festivals like Gangaur, Hariyali Amavasya, Jagannath Rath Yatra, etc. are celebrated enthusiastically.

And, when it’s a part of entertainment and events, Udaipur is a city that is often recognised by many Indian and Foreign nationals for Royal Destination Weddings, Movie Shoots, Lake Festival, World Music Festival, etc.

Apart from all, it also justifies education by serving IIMU (Indian Institute of Management, Udaipur), CTAE (College of Technology and Engineering), and several other colleges and private universities.

Lastly, we can say, our Udaipur is a diamond, and we are proud of our city that has been an incredible land in its own.

Cheers to our mains!! Cheers to all of us…. WE LOVE UDAIPUR 🙂 

Categories
Udaipur Speaks

Udaipur History

Udaipur’s history began with the construction of the Nouchouki palace on the banks of a pond dug by a gypsy in the 15th century. Udai Singh extended this pond and dug a massive manmade lake and christened it Pichola after a tiny village Picholi, located close by.

A suryavanshi and a descendant of the Sisodia Rajputs who are the oldest ruling family in the world with a traceable history of over 26 generations, Maharana Udai Singh created a dream city that is an oasis with lakes, wildlife, flora and fauna in the midst of desert Rajasthan.

According to common legend the city of lakes or Udaipur was established by Maharana Udai Singhji after he was advised by a hermit to do so. It is believed that Udai Singhji was on one of his hunting tours when he had an encounter with a meditating hermit on the banks of the Lake Pichola who inspired him to establish the city of Udaipur in the midst of a valley surrounded by the Aravali hills and ornamented with three massive lakes. The royal Sisodia’s reigned supreme in Udaipur that became the capital city of the state of Mewar after the fall of Chittorgarh. Sisodia’s are believed to be the oldest ruling family in Rajasthan and can trace their lineage for more than 67 generations.

Udaipur is quite like a fairy tale destination with its pure marble forts and palaces, lakes, pavilions and gardens. A favorite haunt with newly weds, Udaipur is soaked in a dreamy romantic mist that is full of sweet promises.

The land of the brave Rana Pratap and Rana Sanga, Udaipur has seen many a battle that was fought for the valor and pride of the proud Sisodia Rajputs. Several women from the royal house of Mewar were married of to Mughal rulers for promoting political relations.


After the death of Udai Singh, his valiant son Maharana Pratap took over the royal throne and was engaged in constant power skirmishes with the Mughals with an aim to recapture the erstwhile capital of Mewar, Chittor.

A landmark in the history of Udaipur, the fierce battle of Haldighati was fought in between Akbar and Maharana Pratap. Till date you can see a delightful shrine that was constructed in the memory of Chetak, Maharana Pratap’s beloved horse, who in spite of suffering fatal injuries had brought its master to safety from the battlefield.