Category: History and Culture

Apart from being the city of Lakes, Udaipur is also known for its rich history and culture. From brave warrior of Mewar, Maharana Pratap to the history behind the breathtaking places here in Udaipur; you can read everything about the History of the city at a single place. Behind every stunner place of the city, there is a story every visitor needs to know. It makes the place more interesting to visit. This section will have you meet the interesting elements and the history of the beautiful Udaipur.

In addition to that, the colorful culture of Mewar never fails to astonish anyone. It is always pleasant to come across the culture of a place. Without that, the journey of exploration always seems incomplete. And so, it will update you with regular articles on the historical background of the places, people, culture and rituals of Udaipur. These places include the palaces, historical forts, and temples.

Categories
History and Culture

जानिए उदयपुर शहर के बीचों बीच बसा एक नगर ऐसा भी

व्यस्त ज़िन्दगी और शहर की चकाचौंध से कभी फुर्सत मिले तो ज़रा गाँव हो आना, कभी गाँव की याद आए तो वहां हो आना। शांत, खूबसूरत, प्राकृतिक आलोकिक, मनमोहक वातावरण में हो आना। 

हरे भरे घास के मैदान, खेत खलिहान, मंदिर, कुआँ, गाँव के वो कच्चे मकान ,गाय भैंस ,पशुपालन, फसल,चंचल हवा, पक्षियों की चहचहाट,गोबर से थपे कंडे,छोटा सा जलाशय जहाँ बच्चो को स्नान करते देख खुद के बचपन की स्मृति हो जाती है। 

हम सभी को गाँव बहुत प्यारा होता है, शहर मे व्यस्त हर इंसान छुट्टिया लेकर अपने गाँव जाना चाहता है ,वहाँ रहना चाहता है ,प्रकृति के जितना करीब रहता है उतना अच्छा महसूस करता है। गाँव के इलाकों में रहने वाले लोग शांतिपूर्ण जीवन जीते हैं लेकिन वे कई आधुनिक सुविधाओं से रहित होते हैं जो जीवन को आरामदायक बनाते हैं। यहां लोग एक साधारण जीवन जीते हैं और जो कुछ भी उनके पास होता है उसमें संतुष्ट रहते हैं। गांव आज भी भारतीय सभ्यता और संस्कृति के आधार स्तम्भ है। गाँव में परम्पराओ का निर्वाहन अच्छे से किया जाता है। 

गाँवों में त्योहार सामूहिक रूप से मनाए जाते हैं और इस तरह उस दौरान खुशी और खुशी दोगुनी हो जाती है। वे एक-दूसरे के साथ सद्भाव में रहते हैं। वे रिश्तों को महत्व देते हैं और उसी को बनाए रखने के प्रयास करते हैं। वे अपने पड़ोस में रहने वाले लोगों के बारे में अच्छी तरह से जानते हैं और उनकी ज़रूरत के समय में उनके द्वारा खड़े होते हैं।

आइये जानते है, उदयपुर शहर के बीचों -बीच बसी एक छोटी सी मानव बस्ती जो संपूर्ण गाँव का वर्णन करती है। वैसे तो यह गाँव शहर में है, इसका रास्ता भी शहर से जुड़ा है और यह पूरी तरह गाँव भी नहीं है, पर यह जगह गाँव का वर्णन जरुर करती है, गाँव होने का एहसास जरूर करवाती है । यह जगह प्रकृति के करीब है। इसके साथ ही इस जगह पर भ्रमण करके गाँव की कला, संस्कृति और परंपरा को अच्छी तरह समझ सकते है। गाँव को महसूस जरूर किया जा सकता है। 

यह एक ऐसी जगह है,जो है तो आम सड़क ही पर कुछ देर के लिए वहाँ से गुजरने पर संपूर्ण सुखद गाँव का अनुभव होता है। जिसे देख कर मन और दिल तरोताज़ा हो जाता है। इस जगह आकर संपूर्ण गाँव के निर्बाध दृश्य को देखा जा सकता है।

आइए जानते है शहर में ऐसी कोनसी जगह है जो गाँव का अनुभव करवाती है, यूनिवर्सिटी रोड से शोभागपुरा 100 फीट रोड, पेट्रोल पंप के सामने, अशोक नगर के आगे यह रास्ता निकल रहा है, जो सीपीएस स्कूल की तरफ निकल रहा है। यही वह जगह है जो गाँव का वर्णन करती है।

शाम के समय अगर वक्त मिले तो इस गांव में हो आना ज़रा इसे निहार आना, अपने बचपन की गलियों से मिल आना।

 

Categories
History and Culture

साहस और वीरता के प्रतीक – महाराणा प्रताप जयंती 2022

maharana pratap jayanti 2022

उदयपुर शहर योद्धाओं की भूमि है, जहां कई सारे वीरों का जन्म हुआ है। उन सब वीरों में से एक वीर महाराण प्रताप भी है जिन्होंने अपनी आखिरी सांस तक स्वतंत्रता के लिए लड़ाई लड़ी। उनके प्रयास के कारण आज मेवाड़ नगरी एक स्वतंत्र भूमि है।

आज दिनांक 2 जून को हम महाराणा प्रताप जयंती के रूप में स्वतंत्रता का जश्न मनाएंगे। वीर प्रताप मेवाड़ के ऐसे हिंदू शासक, जिन्हें भारत के राजपूत शासकों में बहादुरी का सबसे अच्छा उदाहरण माना जाता है और जिनसे सभी मेवाड़ लोग प्रेरित होते हैं। महाराणा प्रताप जयंती प्रतिवर्ष ज्येष्ठ मास की शुक्ल पक्ष की तृतीया को मनाई जाती है।

हिंदू पंचांग के अनुसार वीर शिरोमणि महाराणा प्रताप का जन्म विक्रम संवत् 1597, ज्येष्ठ माह शुक्लपक्ष की तृतीया तिथि को हुआ था। और इस साल, अंग्रेज़ी कैलेंडर के अनुसार, यह तिथि 2 जून 2022, गुरुवार को है। महाराणा प्रताप ने अपनी शिक्षा प्राप्त कर बहुत कम उम्र में हथियारों और उनके उपयोग के कौशल में महारत हासिल की। उन्होंने इस दौरान घुड़सवारी भी सीखी।

उनके पिता महाराणा उदय सिंह द्वितीय और माता रानी जयवंता बाई थीं। वे 25 भाइयों और 20 बहनों में सबसे बड़े थे और मेवाड़ के 54वें शासक थे। वे सिसोदिया राजपूत वंश के थे। 17 साल की उम्र में उनका विवाह राजकुमारी अजबदे ​​से हुआ था।

maharana pratap jayanti 2022

Credits: IndiaToday

महाराणा प्रताप में बचपन से ही वह जुनून था जो एक क्षत्रिय राजा में होना चाहिए। उन्होंने मुगल बादशाह अकबर की गुलामी करना नहीं स्वीकार किया। इसके लिए उन्होंने कई सालों तक बहुत संघर्ष किया। राजस्थान के कई परिवार अकबर की शक्ति के आगे घुटने टेक चुके थे, किन्तु महाराणा प्रताप अपने वंश को कायम रखने के लिये संघर्ष करते रहे और अकबर के सामने आत्मसर्मपण नहीं किया जंगल-जंगल भटकते हुए तृण-मूल व घास-पात की रोटियों में गुजर-बसर कर पत्नी व बच्चे को विकराल परिस्थितियों में अपने साथ रखते हुए भी उन्होंने कभी धैर्य नहीं खोया।

1568 में, जब महाराणा सिर्फ 27 वर्ष के थे, मुगल सम्राट अकबर ने चित्तौड़ पर विजय प्राप्त की। महाराणा उदय सिंह, उनके पिता, ने चित्तौड़ छोड़ने का फैसला किया और गोगुंदा चले गए। इसे अवसर मानकर उनके सौतेले भाई जगमल ने गद्दी छीन ली। जब जगमल मामलों का प्रबंधन करने में असमर्थ था तो वह महाराणा प्रताप से बदला लेने के विचार के साथ अकबर की सेना में शामिल हो गया।

महाराणा प्रताप को अपने जीवन में कई संघर्षों का सामना करना पड़ा। वे जीवन भर अकबर से लड़ते रहे। अकबर ने महाराणा प्रताप से जीतने के लिए कई तरह के प्रयास किए लेकिन वह हमेशा असफल रहा।

हल्दी घाटी युद्ध

हल्दीघाटी युद्ध भारतीय इतिहास में एक ऐतिहासिक घटना है, राजपूत और मुगल राज्यों के वार्षिक में। यह वह लड़ाई थी जिसमें महाराणा प्रताप के प्रिय घोड़े चेतक ने कई बहादुर चालें निभाईं, लेकिन अंत में कुछ गंभीर चोटों के कारण उसकी मृत्यु हो गई ।

इस लड़ाई में  प्रताप को आसपास के क्षेत्रों की भील जनजातियों का भी समर्थन प्राप्त था। महाराणा प्रताप के सबसे प्रिय और प्रसिद्ध नीलवर्ण ईरानी मूल के घोड़े का नाम चेतक था। युद्ध में बुरी तरह घायल हो जाने पर भी महाराणा प्रताप को सुरक्षित रणभूमि से निकाल लाने में सफल वह एक बरसाती नाला उलांघ कर अन्ततः वीरगति को प्राप्त हुआ।

इस लड़ाई में भील जनजाति के महान योगदान को आज तक याद किया जाता है और उन्हें उनके किये गए योगदान के लिए मेवाड़ शासन के राजपूतों द्वारा सम्मान दिया जाता है। इस युद्ध का मुगल सेना पर महत्वपूर्ण प्रभाव पड़ा। इस लड़ाई को मुगल बादशाहों पर जीत का पहला मील का पत्थर माना जाता है।

राजपुताना के इतिहास में एक ऐतिहासिक घटना हल्दीघाटी की लड़ाई केवल चार घंटे तक चली। इस छोटी सी अवधि में प्रताप के आदमियों ने मैदान पर कई बहादुर कारनामे किए। इस युद्ध में मेवाड़ के वीर महाराणा प्रताप विजय हुए थे, जैसे ही साम्राज्य का ध्यान कहीं और स्थानांतरित हुआ, प्रताप और उनकी सेना बाहर आ गई और अपने प्रभुत्व के पश्चिमी क्षेत्रों को हटा लिया। यह युद्ध तो केवल एक दिन चला परन्तु इसमें 17,000 लोग मारे गए। मेवाड़ को जीतने के लिये अकबर ने सभी प्रयास किये किन्तु विफल रहा।

घोड़ा चेतक

महाराणा प्रताप की वीरता के साथ साथ उनके घोड़े चेतक की वीरता भी विश्व विख्यात है। चेतक बहुत ही समझदार और वीर घोड़ा था जिसने अपनी जान दांव पर लगाकर 26 फुट गहरे दरिया से कूदकर महाराणा प्रताप की रक्षा की थी। हल्दीघाटी में आज भी चेतक का मंदिर बना हुआ है। युद्ध में चेतक ने अपनी अद्वितीय स्वामिभक्ति, बुद्धिमत्ता एवं वीरता का परिचय दिया था।

एक ऐसे वीर की धरती पर जन्म लेना हम सभी के लिए गौरव और सम्मान की बात है। महाराणा प्रताप संयम, दृढ़ता, एकाग्रता, और वीरता के प्रतीक हैं। अपने परिवार और अपनी धरती पर जब भी बात आती, उन्होंने कभी भी अपने पैर पीछे नहीं किए। महाराणा प्रताप जाते हुए हम सभी को ये ही सिखा कर गए हैं की जब बात हमारे वतन की हो, तब हमें एक जुट होकर दुश्मन और परेशानी का सामना करना चाहिए।

आज के इस शुभ अवसर को हम इसी साहस, धैर्य, और सम्मान की मूर्ति, वीर शिरोमणि और दृढ संकल्पी महाराणा प्रताप की गौरव गाथा गाते हुए हर्षोल्लास से मनाते हैं।

 

 

Categories
History and Culture

470th Foundation Day of Udaipur

470th Udaipur Foundation Day

Congratulations to every Udaipurite, our city turns 470 today. The city celebrates its foundation day on every Akshay Tritiya every year. We just can’t get over the fact that the city is so old yet so unique and still the same.

Udaipur’s culture mirrors its heritage. We celebrate every birthday of our loved ones with full enthusiasm. So how can we let go of our dearest city so easily? So, on that note let us know this city’s history and about it even better on the 470th foundation day.

Walking around in the more than 400 years old city is an ecstatic feeling. Lakhs of people have come and gone but this city is intact. There is something magical in the place. You can try as hard as you can to not fall in love with this city but eventually, you will.

History

Travelling back in time is always fun. And getting to know about the place where we come from is something special. Udaipur was founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II. After his citadel, Chittorgarh was captured by Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1567. In 1818, Udaipur was the princely state of British India.

Udaipur was a very safe place for the people because of its natural defender, the Aravali hills. And therefore Udaipur remained safe from the Mughal influence. Udaipur was always built keeping one fact in mind and that is to have utmost security.

To protect the city and the people from external attacks. So for that matter, the city was built with thick 6-km long walls.

And now they are namely known as:

  • Suraj Pole
  • Chand Pole
  • Udai Pole (Udiapole)
  • Hathi Pole
  • Amba Pole
  • Brahm Pole
  • Delhi Gate

Now, we recognise the area within these gates as old city.

Now it’s time to reveal some interesting facts about Udaipur.

Everybody knows the Jungle Book right. But did you know that Bagheera the Black Panther, a character, belonged to a place called ‘Oodeypore’ that was taken from the name of our city ‘Udaipur’? If you pronounce both the words, the resultant will be quite similar.

Fascinating right?

The Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO) is considered one of the best solar observatories in Asia as the air turbulence is low in the water as compared to the land. And the favourable sky conditions of the city make it easy to study the movements of the Sun.

You have heard about Jaisamand lake, right? But did you know that it is the second-largest man-made lake in Asia? The dam constructed on this lake also houses a centrally located Shiva temple. The summer palace of the Queen of Udaipur forms a perfect backdrop to the Lake.

Now that we have enjoyed the celebrations of Udaipur’s birthday. It is time for the gift. Yes, you read it right. As a true Udaipurite and to show love to the city we can pledge to do one thing without even hustling much.

And the thing is that we should always take pride in our culture. There should be something that always keeps us attached to our roots. We can try our best to preserve our heritage.

Our future generations also have the right to know about the stories and take a stroll in the past. Like come on, we want people to celebrate the 1000th foundation day of Udaipur and still enjoy the royalty and elegance of the city.

In the end, if Udaipur were a person, we would definitely wish it a very Happy Birthday!

Categories
History and Culture

Knowing the Story Behind the Top Lakes In Udaipur

Story Behind top lakes in Udaipur

It is very rightly said that if there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water. Water is tasteless, colourless, odourless but still, it is valued more than anything in the world. We all are very well aware of the fact that there is an urgent need to preserve water for our coming generations.

And there is a zeal in every person to do something about this rising issue. In earlier times, our ancestors would have been also in this same position. They also had a dedication to save resources for us, to make it easier for us. And they did very well in providing us with a comfortable life.

Whatever may be the occupation, preserving water is our moral obligation. And that’s what our forefathers would have thought while building these beautiful lakes in our city. We live in a city that is known for lakes in the whole wide world and we take pride in it. Living in one of the hottest states of India, these lakes act as a shield in summers. Where water is scarce in almost every corner of the state.

Today is the day when we highlight the importance of freshwater, that is World Water Day. So, on this occasion, we will take you on a ride to the past where we get to know some interesting facts about the famous lakes in Udaipur.

Lake Pichola
It is an artificial freshwater lake, constructed in the year 1382 AD, by Rana Lakha. Later, Maharaja Udai Singh Ji decided to build the city of Udaipur by the banks of the beautiful lake Pichola. Primarily, dams were made to meet the drinking water and irrigation facilities of the city. Jag Niwas Island is located in the middle of the lake on which stands the proud Lake Palace. It is a 250-year-old utterly romantic palace turned Heritage hotel.

Goverdhan Sagar

Udai Sagar Lake
The construction of this lake started in 1564 AD by Maharana Udai Singh II. This dam was constructed to supply adequate water to his kingdom. We bet that you had no idea that Maharana Pratap Singh was invited by Kunwar Man Singh the banks of Udai Sagar Lake. Maharana Raj Singh conquered the army of Emperor Aurangzeb near the embankment of Udai Sagar Lake.

udai sagar

Badi Lake
This lake was built by Maharana Rana Raj Singh I in 1668 AD. Earlier the name of this lake was named Jiyan Sagar after his mom Jana Devi. Later it was renamed Badi Lake as it was under Badi Village. This lake was built to help the individuals of the city in their difficult time in summers and fulfil the need for water.

Fateh Sagar Lake
Maharana Jai Singh first constructed the lake in 1680-1698 AD. But, two hundred years later the earthen bund which formed the lake was washed away during floods. And thereafter, Maharana Fateh Singh, in 1889 AD, built the Connaught Dam on Lake Dewali to mark the visit of Duke of Connaught, son of Queen Victoria. The most remarkable thing about Fatehsagar lake is that it provides employment to 60% of the population in Udaipur.

Goverdhan Sagar Lake
This lake was constructed by Maharana Swaroop Singh in 1857 AD. It is the smallest artificial lake in Udaipur. Earlier it was constructed as a small reservoir then by Maharana Swaroop Singh it was made into a lake.

These are some of the top lakes in Udaipur. These lakes were constructed in different times. But one thing was common, they all were made for the betterment of people living then and now both.
To provide a sufficient amount of water to the people of Udaipur, these lakes were built.

We should take pride in the history of the creation of every lake. As we go deep in history, we learn something new. There was a sense of awareness back then to save resources for future generations and we should take it as a teaching on this World Water Day.

History is something that generates questions in all our minds. This led us to find information for this article from Eternal Mewar and Wikipedia. The bits and facts were compiled by- Vaishali Jain.

Categories
History and Culture

47 District Collectors of Udaipur in the last 74 Years

Did you know, in these 74 years, there has been only one female District Collector of Udaipur till date?

In India, the post of District Collector was created by Warren Hastings in the year 1772. Since then the role has been an essential part of Indian administration. But did you know, that a total of 47 collectors have served the city of lakes since 1948? Before diving into another glorious history of this majestic city, let us know about the role of a District Collector (DC).

A District Collector (DC) is the principal representative of the administration, functions in close cooperation with the superintendent of police to maintain law and order in the district and serves as the principal revenue officer.

In 1948, when Rajasthan was still Rajputana, Shri Moinuddin became the first District Collector of Udaipur. Rajasthan was formally instituted as a state on 30 March 1949 after the British state of Rajputana was merged into the Dominion of India. Since after Shri Moinuddin, there have been a total of 47 collectors of Udaipur who have served the city at their administrative best.

Well, among all, Dr. VS Singh has served for the shortest period as an administrative head of Udaipur. He took charge on 18 October 1989 and served for 72 days. And on the contrary, RR Jain served for the longest tenure of 1,173 days. He started his tenure in the collectorate on 21 October 1967 and served till 6 January 1971.

Udaipur has been served by 2 Collectors in one calendar year thrice in the last 74 years. Mohanlal Agarwal and BN Tankha took charge as Collectors of Udaipur in 1949; Rama Kant Vyas and Ratan Singhi took office as Collectors of Udaipur in 1990; Kuldeep Ranka and Anand Kumar took charge as Collectors in 2008.

Among the last 25 Collectors of Udaipur, seven administrative heads of Udaipur, viz. Kuldeep Ranka, JP Singh, Vipin Sharma, Dr. Ashok Singhvi, Vinod Kapoor, Chetan Deora and Tara Chand Meena have been from the Rajasthan cadre. All of them have held the dual role of Collector and District Magistrate.

In the last 74 years, Udaipur has seen only one female District Collector and that is Ms Anandi, who became Collector and District Magistrate of Udaipur on 25 December 2018 and was in-charge till 4 July 2020.

Here is a list of 47 district collectors who have served Udaipur in 74 years
S.NO. NAME OF THE DISTRICT COLLECTORS YEAR OF SERVICE
1 Moinuddin 1948
2 Mohan Lal Agarwal 1949
3 BN Tankha 1949
4 Khem Chand 1951
5 KR Himmat Singh 1952
6 Raj Kumar 1953
7 RN Hawa 1954
8 Shiv Shanker 1955
9 GBK Hooja 1958
10 PKB Kurup 1960
11 CL Kochar 1963
12 MS Sadasivan  1964
13 BC Mukerji 1965
14 KK Joshi 1966
15 RR Jain 1967
16 Vinaya Vyas 1971
17 Govind Ji Misra 1973
18 PN Bhandari 1974
19 Dr Adarsh Kishore 1976
20 BS Minhas 1979
21 JP Singh 1980
22 Dharam Veer 1983
23 PK Deb 1985
24 PC Jain 1987
25 Atul Kumar Garg 1988
26 Dr. VS Singh 1989
27 Rama Kant Vyas 1990
28 Ratan Singh Singhi 1990
29 Rakesh Srivastava  1992
30 Vipin Chandra Sharma 1993
31 Ashok Singhvi 1995
32 Shreemat Pandey 1997
33 Prem Singh Mehra 1999
34 Vinod Kapoor 2001
35 Abhay Kumar 2002
36 Shikhar Agarwal 2005
37 Alok 2007
38 Kuldeep Ranka 2008
39 Anand Kumar 2008
40 Hemant Kumar Gera 2010
41 Vikas SItaram Bhale 2012
42 Ashutosh Pednekar 2013
43 Rohit Gupta 2015
44 Bishnu Charan Mallick 2017
45 Ms Anandhi 2018
46 Chetan Ram Deora 2020
47 Tara Chand Meena 2022

The data has been curated from Udaipurtimes.com.

Categories
History and Culture

Dilwara Jain Temples: Visions To Cherish

Source: William Carpenter

When inspiration strikes, the artists swear to their art, that every inch of their creation will manifold history. Dilwara Jain Temples are such examples. It’s unique in every sense of the word. It first came into construction somewhere in the 11th century and after ages of diligent construction, destruction, and reconstruction, five such temples came into existence. Each with its own set of antiquities is molded out of milky marble.

Mount Abu Online

While the formation of these temples was in action, the Chalukya Dynasty was in power. What went down in the centuries that saw the plight of these monuments, is intense history. The year 1311 saw the darkest unfolding. Allaudin Khilji laid destruction on all five temples and left them mangled in ruins. All that eloquence now resounded in pieces. Then amidst the 14th century, began the reconstruction. Donations and reparations came from many devotees from all over India. One of the people who contributed to repairs were, Bijag and Lalag from Mandore. Currently, the temples are administered by the Seth Kalyanji Parmanand Ji Pedi.

Source: kamit.jp

Now, to write about its intricate interiors, every inch of all five temples is etched with unique carvings. Little details are as great as a legend. India’s artistry is well reflected in the Dilwara Temples. All the craftsmanship scribed on the wall is always telling a story in these great temples. The manuscripts were written with a chisel on marble.

The first temple, The Vimal Vasahi Temple

This Vimal Vasahi is dedicated to the Tirthankara, Adinatha Ji. This one was sculpted entirely out of white marble. Even more detailed statues of the other Tirthankaras are present here. From the ceiling to pillars and grand doors, nothing resembles the definition of the plain. It was built in 1032 by Vimal Shah, the Chalukya King of Gujarat.

The second temple, The Luna Vasahi Temple

The Luna Vasahi is dedicated to The Tirthankara Neminath Ji. The beauty inside Luna Vasahi even surpasses that of Vimal Vasahi. The space inside welcomes sunlight so delightfully that it highlights even the most minute explanation of the temple. The Hathi Shala here is what is called magnificent. This temple also showcases the most delicate stone-cutting there could be. It was built in 1230 by Porwad Brothers; Vastupal and Tejpal, ministers of Virdhawal.

The third temple, The Pittalhar Temple

It is in the name; a colossal statue of the first Tirthankara, RishabhDev Ji, is crafted with five different kinds of metal. The metal used among the five others in the highest quantity is Brass, hence the name Pittalhar, as Pittal is a Hindi translation of brass. With 107 images instilled inside this temple, it stands tall with its individualism. Built by Bhima Shah, Minister of Sultan Begada. The construction of the temple dates between 1316-1432 AD.

The fourth temple, Shri Parsvanatha Temple

It’s believed that masons urged to put in use, the remaining bricks from the previous three temples, as this was the fourth temple in order of dates. It’s a three-story grand religious building. Standing as the tallest one in all of the five temples, grey sandstone can be seen in the building. Sangvi Mandlik and his family took under the construction of this one in the year 1458-59.

The fifth temple, Lord Mahavira Temple

Decorated with a number of beautiful paintings, it’s the smallest of the five temples. It’s adorned with gorgeousness. Although smaller in size, its craftsmanship is relatively modern with new elements. It was built in the year 1582.

The timings for the Dilwara temples are; the temples open for the public from 12 pm and close at 5 pm. These Svetambara Jain temples are situated 2 and a half km away from the Hill station, Mount Abu, Sirohi District of Rajasthan.

Source: Wikipedia
Categories
History and Culture

Miniature Art Culture in Udaipur

Source: Art Udaipur

Miniature Painting has significance not only in being beautiful, but also academically, historically, and religiously. These paintings were used to record the lives of royalty. For a long time, when people couldn’t read, this artistry acted as a means of spreading and recording information, education, notions, and anything that needed awareness. This particular field of art needs extreme precision and finesse in the final product. It’s an exceptional thing for a person of Miniature Artistry to get the faces with utmost accuracy. Importance of Miniature Painting in Rajasthan is massive and Udaipur dwells on Miniature arts. 

Source: Udaipur Cycle Tour

The paint used in these paintings is mostly made from stones like Graphite, Lapis Lazuli, and many other natural resources. For colors like gold and silver, incredibly thin sheets of gold and silver are used called Varakh. Even while making the colors, the consistency of the color is vital. Details lie at the heart of Miniature Painting. Every stroke, fill, corner, and crevice of a painting demands a clean hand. So, naturally, the brushes used are excellent, they are made from the hair of a squirrel’s tails and it’s said, hair is also obtained from camel’s eyelashes. For mixing bowls, shells with smooth surfaces are used. For straight lines, wooden rod helps.

Source: Go Heritage Run

The four steps included in making a miniature painting are Sketching, done in reddish-brown ink, followed by Tracing done on the main canvas or paper, then the coloring is executed and lastly Stippling is done, where small strokes and dots are made with a small fine brush. Both round and flat brushes act as tools for the artists.

Source: Nat Geo Traveller India

Sadly, more than sixty percent of the miniature artists are changing professions as they see a bleak future. Art comes from the intensive conversation between mind and soul. An artist simply cannot function if these two decide to not cooperate. Everyone is gifted with a little bit of art but not all are called artists. It takes recognition of that art, and practice every day to be respectably called an artist. Even after so much effort and passion, Miniature Art is a dying one. There are great miniature artists in Udaipur who follow this art with all their might, but they don’t wish to pass it down to the generation.

Source: Pinterest

Miniature art is being kept alive by exhibitions, tourism, and a very small number of art lovers. If you are are someone who appreciates art, these paintings will amaze you. Visit the old city of Udaipur to support and appreciate local artists. Appreciating art is also an art.  

Categories
History and Culture

The Folklore Of Doodh Talai

Source: gardenvisit

In Udaipur, there is a charming little pond which is popularly known as, ‘Doodh Talai’, certain people refer to a bit varied spelling that goes, ‘Dudh Talai’. Mentioned below is the folklore, which gives a rather strange logic as to why this pond is called what it’s called.

~

A few centuries back, there was a king who desired for himself a pond that had no water but milk in it. He ordered the construction of a little pond in the center of Udaipur. Next, he commanded each family in Udaipur to pour one large pot of milk into the pond. The King wanted the sight of a white pond to be a surprise for himself. So, he asked everyone to pour the pot full of milk an hour before the sunrise kisses the earth. There was an understandable concern among the people as milk wasn’t affordable to everyone. For whom it was, the thought of throwing away healthy milk didn’t agree with everyone. When the auspicious night came, a few large pots of milk were poured down in the newly established pond by the royal household. Everyone did the same with the amount of milk they could spare. There was one wise man who thought to himself, “What if I, instead of milk, pour into the pond, a pot of water? No one will know! As one-pot water won’t influence a pond full of milk.” As it is widely known that ‘great minds think alike. It was a hilarious shock for the king to wake up to the water pond the next morning. Everyone started to call the pond “Doodh Talai” as a tease and the King had never felt such mockery.

On account of this unaccountable lore, whenever you next visit the tourist spot that is Doodh Talai, do excuse a minute for the king’s euphoric ambition. 

Categories
History and Culture Music

Rajasthani Folk Music Instruments You Should Know About

We live in a world full of music. A chirping bird, a whistling wind, a drop of rain, or a huss of grass, everything has an instrumental touch to it. And when we talk about music and instruments, we have to land on the cultural capital, Rajasthan. 

With the enormous and diversified heritage and culture Rajasthan has provided, one can never forget the contribution of the state in folk music and instruments. We as a generation may not be aware of the instruments that were popular and originated from our enriching state. 

It’s time to dive right into the melodious history and know about strings and strands. 

RAVANHATHA

Ravanhatha is a bow and string instrument, usually made by the player itself. It is an important folk music instrument of Rajasthan made up of bamboo, coconut shell and is covered with a goat membrane and the strings are made up of horsehair. Ravanhatta players are called ‘Bhopas’. They belong to the Nayak, Bhil or Thori castes. It is also known as the ancestor of the violin. 

nykdaily.com

MORCHANG

Morchang, also known as morsing, is another very popular Rajasthani folk music instrument. To play this wind percussion instrument, the player has to hold it firmly in his hands and between the teeth and strike the metal tongue of the instrument with a free hand. The movement of the player’s tongue, blowing and sucking of air through the instrument produces different sounds. People who play Morchang are known as morsingists.

vijiravin.wordpress.com

KAMAICHA

One of the oldest instruments in the world, Kamaicha is the heart and soul of Rajasthan’s folk music. The ancient instrument is made from a single piece of mostly seasoned mango tree wood and its round part is converted with goatskin. The bow is made from the wood of the Khejari tree and string from horsehair. It plays a crucial role in the vibrant music of the Manganiyar community, depicting the stories, Sufi tales and many more folklores with the help of this instrument. It is found more in the Jaisalmer-Barmer region.

www.thehindu.com

DEDH SATARA

Dedh Satara, popularly known as Alghoza is a woodwind instrument used in the folk culture of Rajasthan. There are 2 flutes, either tied together or sometimes loosely handed by the player in both hands and played together. Both the flutes differ in size and purpose so, the longer one is said to be the male and the shorter one is female. Also, one is used for melody and another one for setting the tone.

indianmusicschool.com

SINDHI SARANGI

Sindhi Sarangi is a stringed instrument made of wood. This instrument is played with a bow. The whole instrument is carved out of a single piece of wood. It has four playing gut strings and twenty-two sympathetic steel strings. The strings are managed with the left hand’s fingernails and the bow runs from the right hand. This folk instrument is found in Rajasthan, majorly used by the ‘Langa’ Community of west Rajasthan as an accompaniment to their songs.

pinterest.com

NAAG PHANI

Naag Phani, a wind instrument made with bronze and metal, shaped like a snake at the end is a folk instrument, found in Rajasthan and Gujrat. The structure is defined as a bronze tube shaped like a serpentine bell. And the end has a snake-shaped head with a metal tongue hanging and is painted with bright colors. It is mainly used in religious and social ceremonies as a part of the procession in Rajasthan and in ritualistic social ceremonies and festivities in Gujarat.

www.thehindu.com

BHAPANG

Bhapang is a rare single-stringed instrument also known as a ‘talking drum.’ It is made from the hollow shell of the dry pumpkin. It is often played to accompany Bhajans, devotional songs and poetry. It is positioned under the armpit and plucked and then played. When Bhapang is played the musician grasps a wooden handle that is attached to a string. The same string is attached to the membrane. It originates from the Mewati community in the Alwar district. The Bhat community of Rajasthan also uses it.

www.dekulture.com

KHARTAL

A Khartal is a striking instrument that is mainly used for devotional and folk songs of Rajasthan. The word is derived from 2 words ‘kara’ means ‘hands’ and ‘tala’ means ‘music generated by clapping instruments. The instrument is made up of Sheesham aka teak tree. It is mostly made by the tribe called Langas and Manganiyaars of Rajasthan.

www.bonedrymusic.com

Well, music is a way of expression and it never fails to express the oy our heart and ear experience. Likewise, the Rajasthani folk music and instruments have lured us into their magical sound and there is no turning back. If you have a taste of music for folk instruments of Rajasthan, then yes you are among the few blessed ones!

Categories
History and Culture

Freedom Fighters From Mewar: Independence Day Special

Freedom is just not flying with a bunch of feathers. One can not emphasize enough on its importance. The struggle, the pain, the oppose and the obstacles to attain freedom has hardships one can barely imagine.

Today, when India is entering into the 75th year of its independence, let us acknowledge and honor the work and sacrifices of the freedom fighter from Mewar, who not only contributed in attaining freedom but also helped in the foundation of this nation.

Shri Bhurelal Baya

  • He was born in 1904.
  • He participated in the movement against Simon Commission, 1928 and Mahatma Gandhi’s Salt Satyagraha called Dandi March in 1930.
  • He was also in Pune’s Yerwada Jail with Mahatma Gandhi in 1930.
  • He was also elected as Vice-Chairperson of the Praja-Mandal in 1938.
  • He spent 13 months in Sarada Jail after his movement against the dissolution of Praja Mandal.
  • He started the Charkha Mandal in Mewar and also participated in the Quit India Movement in 1942 called by Mahatma Gandhi and served in Udaipur’s Iswal Jail  for 18 months.
  • Then, he founded the Mewar Relief Society to help the flood victims of Khari River.
  • Shri Bhurelal led the Bijoliya Praja Mandal session and devoted his life towards the achievements of Praja Mandal.
bhurelal
Image Source: Eternal Mewar

Shri Manikyalal Verma

  • He was born on 4 September, 1897 in Bhilwara.
  • He was inspired by the poetry of the legendary poet and freedom fighter Shri Vijay Singh ‘Pathik’.
  • He served for about 14 years in jail.
  • He was in the founding committee which later organised the Praja Mandal in Mewar.
  • He was again arrested during the Quit India Movement in 1942 by the British.
  • He traveled continuously to remote villages and collected great public support.
  • He played a vital role in social reforms at Dungarpur.
  • He was the key organizer of the 9th session of Bhartiya Desi Rajya Parishad held in Udaipur and administered its welcome committee.
  • After the Rajputana Princely States merged into the Union of India which was formally inaugurated by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on 18 April 1948 in the Durbar Hall of Fateh Prakash Palace, Udaipur, the cabinet was formed under the leadership of Shri Manikya Lal Verma.
manikyalal
Image Source: Eternal Mewar

Shri Mohanlal Sukhadia

  • He was born on 31st July 1916.
  • He participated in the Rajasthan Sahitya Sabha organised by Rajasthan Vidyapeeth in 1940 which drove him towards the independence movement.
  • He participated in the Quit India Movement of 1942, due to which he was sent to the Iswal Jail for 18 months by the British government .
  • He served the flood victims of Khari River flood in 1943. He summoned relief workers and arranged food, medicines, clothing and other necessities for the victims.
  • He also participated in the Akhil Bhartiya Hindi Sahitya Sammelan in 1944.
  • In 1946, Praja Mandals of various states merged to form a statewide organization and named it Rajputana Prantiya Sabha. Shri Mohanlal Sukhadia was introduced in the Executive Committee of this newly formed organization.
  • Shri Mohanlal Sukhadia’s  efficiency and effectiveness in problem solving tactics were highly valued in the organization’s meetings that earned him recognition as one of the top leaders in Rajasthan.
  • Shri Mohan Lal Sukhadia joined the cabinet of Union of Rajasthan as Irrigation and Labour Minister.
  • After a long political career, he became the youngest Chief Minister of any state in India. He continued on this post for record making 17 years from 13 November 1954 to 8 July 1971.
mohanlal sukahdia
Image Source: Eternal Mewar

Shri Balwant Singh Mehta

  • He was born on 8 February 1900 in Udaipur.
  • He started the Pratap Sabha in 1915 and played a vital role in the celebration of Maharana Pratap Jayanti at Amal ka Kanta, Udaipur from 1917.
  • During his Presidency, in 1933-34 the Haldighati Mela was started.
  • He solely represented Udaipur in Congress sessions; Lahore (1929) and Karachi (1930).
  • He participated in the tax movement of 1932 against the state.
  • The foundation of Praja Mandal of Udaipur took place on 24th April 1938 where he was elected as the Chairperson.
  • He was arrested on 4th October 1938 and served jail for 1 year.
  • He was actively involved during the Quit India Movement in 1942 and was arrested and put in the Central Jail of Udaipur.
  • After his release from the jail, he supported the Bhil Andolan and founded the Vanvari Sewa Samiti in 1943.
balwant
Image Source: Eternal Mewar

Shri Kanak Madhukar Agrawal

  • He was born on 12th July 1912 in Banera village of Bhilwara.
  • He started the weekly newspaper called ‘Dainik Navjivan’ which was published from Ajmer.
  • He usually printed against the British Government in his newspaper and as a result was warned multiple times.
  • Whatever be the circumstances, he did not stop and continued to get public support for which he was arrested and sent to jail for 14 months during the Quit India Movement of 1942.
  • After his jail tenure, he was banned from Ajmer.
  • He then traveled to Udaipur in 1944 and re-established his printing press and started the newspaper ‘Dainik Navjeevan’ because of which he again had to serve in the jail for 15 days as per the orders by the British government.
  • He was given Maharana Mewar Special Award by Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar of Udaipur in 1990.
kanak madhukar
Image Source: Eternal Mewar

Shri Heeralal Kothari

  • He was born on 8th August 1905 at Gogunda.
  • He was elected in the First Prajamandal Executive Committee.
  • He also helped in providing basic amenities to the freedom fighters who were serving in jail.
  • Shri Heeralal Kothari took part in the Quit India Movement, 1942.
  • He was the Treasurer and Vice -Chairperson of ‘Vanvasi Sewa Sangh’.
  • He was a member of the Mewar Relief Committee during the Khari River Flood of 1943.
  • He handled the finance department in Desi Riyasati Prajaparishad Adhiveshan in 1946.
  • In the independent India, he was one of the primary Ministers from Mewar.
  • He promoted education and in 1933 he opened Manohar Sewa Sadan School in Udaipur.
  • He also served as a home and education minister of the state. And not only that, he was the first Chairperson of Nagar Nigam, Udaipur.
  • He played a vital role in developing the wool industry in Devgarh.
heeralalkothari
Image Source: Eternal Mewar

Shri Prem Narayan Mathur

  • He was born on 15 October 1912 at Kurabad.
  • He started working for ‘Rajasthan Saptahik’ in 1937.
  • He actively participated in the 1938 Prajamandal movement and Quit India Movement, 1942.
  • He was chosen in the cabinet of First Chief Minister of Rajasthan with Shri Heeralal Shastri, where he was chosen as the Home and Education Minister.
prem naryan
Image Source: Eternal Mewar

What mighty heroes has our soil produced. These might be a few freedom fighters to be mentioned but the contribution of each and everyone in the formation of us as a nation has been scripted in the history, that too in golden words.

Their remarkable work can not be just appreciated with mere words. We are thankful to all the fighters of our freedom, whether sung or unsung, who despite of all the complications and obstructions stood strong and hard. Entering with pride in the 75th year of Independence. 

 

Source of the article & images: Eternal Mewar