Since childhood we have read about Haldighati, majorly in context with the Battle of Haldighati (Fought on 18 June 1576). In all the textbooks and every journal we read, it was all just about the bloodshed. In this article, I am going to focus on the merrier and rosy side of Haldighati.
Now, for all those who are missing out on what and where is Haldighati, here a quick brief. Haldighati is a mountain pass in the Aravali Range which connects Rajsamand, Udaipur and Pali districts. The name ‘Haldighati’ has originated from the turmeric colored soil of the hills of the area. Turmeric is haldi in Hindi, which has an orangey-ochre color.
Haldighati is known for its cultivation of roses!
The place is one of the biggest exporters of rose products in India. Haldighati has one of the finest varieties of roses; the Chaitri Roses. These roses are a breed of pink rose, bloom in plenty in the month of March-April (a period of approx one month) in a year.
The name of Chaitri Rose is derived from the Hindu month Chaitra, which falls in April, hence the name.
Chaitri Roses cultivated in this region form the world’s finest perfumes as well as Gulkand (Rose Jam), Gulab Jal (rose water), and several other products, including a special medicine for diabetes.
The major production of rose products is done around Badshahi Bagh. This place is well known for its cultivation of roses, especially the Chaitri Roses. The farming of these roses is done at very large scale in Haldighati. The ‘Gulkand’ (Rose petals Jam) made from the rose at Badshahi Bagh has great medicinal value and tastes good too. It is primarily used in ‘Pan’ and other eatables. It has proven therapeutic benefits and has a cooler efficacy which helps in summers from getting relief from the searing sun of Rajasthan.
While Rose water is also known for its health and beauty benefits, it is also Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, contains high amounts of vitamin C, natural oils found in roses help lock moisture into the skin, has a pleasant natural fragrance, helps in relaxing and toning the skin. Many medicines are also prepared from roses which are exported worldwide.
Aren’t you amazed? Such a small pretty looking flower can do so much!
How to Reach Haldighati?
Haldighati is about 40 km from Udaipur and lies on the route between Udaipur-Eklingji.
Daily checking of the Blue Ribbon in the assembly was something every Marian was afraid of. And let me add, more afraid than being caught for riding without a helmet! Tying the Blue Ribbon on pony-tails and braids was a part of wearing a perfect uniform!
Making a separate line and standing until the assembly got over and then listening to the yelling PT Sir; filling the latecomers’ remarks in the diary, who can forget it!
The sick room is where all of us (I mean we all Marians) have been to once every year; some coz of being really sick and some coz of skipping physical training periods!
Not playing and hanging out with friends and talking about life- yes, literally life, was the motive behind going for a Games Period.
Shouting in the class and enjoying would suddenly come to an end as soon as we heard: ‘Sister is here’. Even the teachers used to scare us taking their names! Mostly it was referring to Sister Principal.
Why am I in Shastri House this time? I wanted to be in Pratap! Gosh…! I know you people can easily relate to it!!!!
The cultural week was one of the biggest events in my school time. And a great escape from studies and a way to showcase our talents.
The best part of being in the 12th class was wearing a Saree (with a lot of restrictions back then in school) on the day of farewell.
In our lives, we have always listened to this- ‘St. Marians have an Ego Issue’! Haven’t you ever heard this? :p
