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.
The Ahar river which encircles the Udaipur city is one of the few ancient rivers of the early ages, and is still hiding great mysteries within itself.
The significance of this river goes way back to the time of Indus Valley Civilisation, when there was also a contemporary civilisation going alongside, that is Ahar Civilisation, which was nurtured by this Ahar river only as those people resided on the banks of this river, the river which is now a mere sewage & dumpyard for the whole city.
If we turn a few more pages in history we find some lesser known facts about Ahar civilisation that existed even in the pre & early Vedic period and flourished in the Chalcolithic age (copper age) which is surprisingly dated around 3500-1500BC.
Although it is the lack of archaeological excavations and people’s attention that there is still a huge potential for new discoveries about Ahar. Archaeological survey of india (ASI) has designated a museum for the Ahar civilisation, it is situated near Gangu kund (Cenotaphs).
Similar to Harappa and Mohenjodaro, Ahar civilisation was well versed in pottery (painted red & grey ware), Stone statues & tools, terracotta figurines, clay toys etc. All these artifacts found in the excavations are exhibited in the Ahar Museum. The metal statue of Buddha and stone statues of Jain tirthankaras are the unique attraction of this place for the scholars & historians. This museum is lesser known & is among the least visited places even for the Udaipurites, due to the lack of information regarding the Ahar & its heritage values.
Don’t let the Ahar die beneath the urban garbage, save it from becoming an open sewerage and let it again sing the tales of our glorious past. Our history requires our attention!
हमारे देश में त्यौहार, समय अनुसार मनाये जाते हैं। उदयपुर के लोग राजाओं-महाराजाओं के काल से ही उत्सव-जलसे बड़े धूम-धाम से मनाते आए हैं। उन्ही त्योहारों में से एक है, गणगौर। गणगौर का त्यौहार चैत्र महीने के शुक्ल पक्ष की तीज पर आता है। आज हम आपको लेकर चल रहे हैं इतिहास के पन्नो में। क्या आपने कभी सोचा है कि महाराणा काल में गणगौर जैसा त्यौहार, जो कि आज भी इतना रंगीन और खुशनुमा है, उस वक़्त कैसे मनाया जाता था? इतिहास का विस्तृत पेश करती हुई गाथा वीर विनोद से आभार सहित कुछ अंश इस जश्न के, हम आपसे प्रस्तुत कर रहे हैं।
18 शताब्दी अर्थात महाराणा सज्जन सिंह जी के काल में गणगौर के इस त्यौहार का विस्तृत वर्णन कुछ इस प्रकार किया गया है- “नवीन वर्ष आरम्भ होते ही सभी ज्योतिष-गण उत्तम वस्त्र और आभूषणों से सुसज्जित होकर, महाराणा की सेवा में उपस्थित होते है तथा शुभकामनाओं के साथ महाराणा को नवीन पंचाग भेंट करते है। गणगौर इसके अगले दिन मनाया जाता है। गणगौर के दिन सभी स्त्रियाँ सुन्दर वस्त्र और आभूषण पहनकर बाग़-बावड़ियों में जाती है। महाराणा के आदेश पर राज्य भर में जश्न होता है। ये जश्न किसी धूम-धाम से कम नहीं होता।
दिन के ठीक तीन बजे पहला नगाड़ा बजता है, उसके बाद दूसरा और फिर तीसरे नगाड़े पर महाराणा घोड़े पर विराजमान होते हैं। एकलिंगगढ़ पर 21 तोपों की सलामी दी जाती है। बड़ी पोल से त्रिपोलिया घाट तक दोनों तरफ़ लकड़ी के बड़े खूंटे लगा दिए जाते है और उन पर रस्सियाँ बाँध दी जाती है। इन खूटों के आसपास पुलिस के जवान पहरा देते हैं। इन पर बाँधी गयी रस्सी के भीतर राजकीय अधिकारियों के अलावा अन्य व्यक्ति नहीं आ सकता है। जब महाराणा की सवारी महल से रवाना होती है तब सवारी के बाद सबसे आगे मेवाड़ के राजकीय निशान से चिन्हित हाथी चलते हैं, उनके पीछे के हाथियों पर सरदार, पासवान और अन्य अधिकारी होते है।
सवारी में जंगी घुड़सवारों के साथ साथ अँग्रेज़ अफ़सर भी शरीक होते है। विदेशी बाजा बजता हुआ निकलता है और उसके पीछे निकलते है सोने चाँदी के हौदे जो ख़ास हाथी पर कसे हुए होते है। इसके साथ ही राज्य के बड़े-बड़े प्रतिष्ठित लोग, उमराव, सरदार और चारण घोड़ों पर आते है। इस कारवाँ के पीछे जरी व सोने-चाँदी से सुसज्जित घोड़े रहते है।”
महाराणा की सवारी का दृश्य कुछ इस प्रकार होता है
“मधुर, सुरीला बाजा बजता रहता है, उसके पीछे महाराणा अच्छी पोशाक, ‘अमर शाही’, ‘आरसी शाही’ और ‘स्वरूप शाही’ पगड़ियों में से एक किस्म की पगड़ी, जामा और नाना प्रकार के हीरे मोतियों के आभूषणों को धारण किये और कमर बंध व ढाल लगाए हुए घोड़े पर विद्यमान रहते है। महाराणा के पीछे दूसरे सरदार, जागीरदार, पासवान व जंगी सैनिक रहते है और सबसे पीछे हाथी चलते है। सवारी के दोनों तरफ छड़ीदारो की बुलंद आवाज़ और आगे वीरता के दोहो का गायन करने वाले ढोलियो की आवाजें सवारी के आनंद को दोगुना कर देती है। इसी ठाठ बाट के साथ महाराणा धीरे-धीरे त्रिपोलिया घाट पर पहुंचते हैं और वह घोड़े से उतर कर नाव पर सवार होते हैं। इनमें से एक नाव के ऊँचे गोखड़े पर लगभग दो फुट ऊंचा सिंहासन रहता है, उस पर चार खम्बों वाली लकड़ी की एक छतरी होती है। सिंहासन और छतरी ज़र्दोजी और ज़री से सुशोभित होती है। सिंहासन के चारो तरफ, नीचे के तख्तो पर शानदार पोशाकों व गहनों से सज्जित सरदार, चारण व पासवान अपने दर्जे के मुताबिक बैठते है और कितने ही अन्य लोग आसपास खड़े रहते है। महाराणा के पद के नीचे के सभ्यगण उसी के समीप जुड़ी हुई नाव में सवार होते है। नाव की सवारी धीरे-धीरे दक्षिण की तरफ बढ़ती है और बड़ी पाल तक जाने के बाद फिर लौट कर त्रिपोलिया घाट पर आती है। दक्षिण के तरफ बढ़ते हुए आतिशबाज़ी चलाने का हुक्म दिया जाता है, तालाब के किनारों तथा कश्तियो पर से तरह-तरह की रंग-बिरंगी आतिशबाज़िया होती है। ये सब देखने में बहुत आनंद आता है।
इस अवसर पर बहुत से लोग सवारी को देखने दूर-दूर से आते है, क्योंकि उदयपुर के गणगौर के जलसे की दूसरे राजपुतानों में बड़ी तारीफ़ होती है। तालाब के किनारे देखने वाले लोगो की बड़ी भीड़ रहती है, इतनी की भीतर घुसना भी बहुत कठिन हो जाता है। इसके बाद महल से गणगौर माता की सवारी निकलती है, जिस के साथ नाना प्रकार की सुन्दर पोशाकों और सोने-चाँदी के गहनों से सुसज्जित दासियो के झुंड साथ चलते है। एक स्त्री के सिर पर लगभग 3 फुट ऊंची, सोने चाँदी के गहनों से शोभायमान, लकड़ी की बनी हुई गणगौर माता की मूर्ति रखी होती है। सवारी के आगे और पीछे, सवारी के लाज़मी हाथी घोड़ों पर पंडित व ज्योतिष लोग विद्यमान रहते हैं।
त्रिपोलिया घाट पर सवारी के पहुंचते ही महाराणा अपने सिंहासन से खड़े होकर गणगौर माता को प्रणाम करते है, फिर गणगौर माता को फर्श युक्त वेदिका पर रखकर, पंडित व ज्योतिषी लोग पूजन करके महाराणा साहिब को पुनः देते है। इसके बाद दासियाँ गणगौर माता के दोनों तरफ बराबर खड़े हो कर, प्रणाम के तौर पर झुकती हुई, “लहुरे” (एक तरह का गाना) गाती है। यह जलसा देखने लायक होता है। यहाँ राज्य में लकड़ी की बनी गणगौर की बड़ी मूर्ति के अलावा मिट्टी की बनी हुई गणगौर और दूसरे भगवानों की छोटी मूर्तियां भी देखी जा सकती है। बाकी शहर में दूसरे भगवान और गणगौर की मूर्तियां साथ ही निकाली जाती है।
राजपूताना की कुल रियासतों में इस त्यौहार को एक बड़े उत्सव के तौर पर मनाया जाता है। इस देश में ऐसी कहावत है कि दशहरा राजपूतों के लिए और गणगौर स्त्रियों के लिए बड़ा त्यौहार है। यहाँ महादेव को ईसर (ईश्वर) और पार्वती को गणगौर कहते हैं। फिर गणगौर माता को जिस तरह जुलुस के साथ लाते हैं, उसी तरह फिर से महल में पहुंचाया जाता है। इसके बाद उसी फर्श पर दसियों द्वारा घूमर नृत्य और गाना-बजाना होता है। स्थानीय निवासी लोग भी नावों में सवार होकर इस जलसे को देखने के लिए आते हैं। आखिर में महाराणा रूप घाट पर नाव से उतर कर तामजान में सवार हो महल में पधार जाते है जहां कीमती गलीचे- मखमल का फर्श, ज़रदोज़ी के शामियाने व सोने चाँदी से बने हुए सिंहासन व कुर्सियां इनका इंतजार कर रही होती है और इस तरह यह जलसा पूरे 4 या उससे भी ज़्यादा दिन के लिए इसी तरह चलता रहता है”
उपरोक्त दृश्य की परिकल्पना मात्र ही आनंदमय लगती है। उस ज़माने की बात ही कुछ और थी। उम्मीद है आपको ये सब पढ़कर अच्छा लगा होगा। हम आगे भी कुछ ऐसे त्योहारों के बारे में आपको बताएँगे। कैसी लगी आपको हमारी ये पेशकश, हमें कमेंट्स में लिखकर ज़रूर बताएं। तब तक के लिए खम्मा घणी।
Dotted by magnificent Aravalis, grand palaces, beautiful Havelis and mesmerizing lakes, the city of Udaipur is celebrating its 468th foundation anniversary on Sunday, April 26 on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya.
Udaipur was founded in 1553 by Maharana Udai Singh II after his citadel Chittorgarh was captured by Mughal Emperor Akbar.
Photo by Wikipedia
According to the legend, Udai Singh was guided by a hermit who was meditating on the hill near Pichola Lake to establish his capital on this very spot. Since the place was surrounded by gigantic Aravali Ranges, dense forests and lakes, it was less vulnerable than Chittorgarh. Consequently, Udai Singh II established a residence on the site.
In November 1567, the Mughal emperor Akbar attacked & forced to give up control of the venerated fort of Chittor. After the Mughal empire weakened, the Sisodia Ranas, and Maharanas stood-up for their independence and recaptured most of the Mewar except for Chittorgarh.
Udaipur remained the capital of the state, which became a princely state of British India in 1818. Being surrounded by a mountain range, the region was unsuitable for heavily armoured Mughal emperors to be attacked. And therefore, Udaipur remained safe from Mughal influence in spite of much pressure.
Photo by RVCJ Media
The Rajvansh of Udaipur is one of the oldest dynasties in the world. Today, Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar is the 76th custodian of the Mewar Dynasty.
At present, with a population of more than 6 lakh, the city’s living heritage is the 400-year-old City Palace with clusters of centuries-old residences.
The city has been celebrating the rich culture and heritage every year on Udaipur Foundation Day with great zeal. It has always been an auspicious day for all the Udaipurites when one of the most precious gems of Rajasthan was discovered.
The City Administration along with few other social and cultural organisations celebrate the day by organising various events and programs.
Photo by BrandBoaster
This would be the first time Udaipur will ever see the Foundation Day in lockdown. Unfortunately, the celebration was not possible on a grand public scale keeping the health and safety of the people in mind. However, this will surely not lessen the love and respect Udaipurites have in their heart for the city.
As a responsible and true Udaipur citizen, people will celebrate the Foundation Day of Udaipur by showing the same fighting and winning spirit that the founders of the city had.
Every Indian heart gets filled with tremendous pride as the Tiranga unfurls on the national festivals like 15th August and 26th January every year.
However, a lot many of us are not well-versed with the reason behind celebrating these festivals especially the Republic Day that is celebrated on January each year.
So, here we have listed some insightful facts about the Indian Republic Day.
26 January 1930 was earlier celebrated as Indian Independence Day because on this day India decided to fight for freedom.
The then Indian leaders wanted to make the date 26 January a historic one, so they decided to launch the Constitution of India on this date.
Dr B. R. Ambedkar took 2 years and 11 months to draft the Constitution of India.
The Constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India on 26 November 1949.
However, it came into effect on 26th January 1950.
The first Republic Day of India was celebrated on 26th January 1950, almost after 2 years of Indian Independence Day.
Indian Constitution is the longest constitution in the world with a total of 448 articles.
Indian Constitution is written in both English and Hindi.
Republic Day Celebration is a 3-day long event in New Delhi.
The celebration starts on 26th January with Republic Day Parade and ends on 29th January with Beating Retreat Ceremony.
During the Parade of Republic Day, a Christian hymn “Abide with me” is played because this was Mahatma Gandhi’s favourite hymn.
From 1950 to 1954, Republic Day was celebrated at Irwin Stadium now called National Stadium, Red Fort, Ramlila Grounds and Kingsway.
The first Republic Day Celebration at Rajpath was held in 1955.
The Indian Constitution has never been printed ever.
The original copy of the Indian Constitution is preserved in helium-filled caskets at the Library of Parliament House.
The first President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad was sworn on 26th January 1950.
The Indian Constitution is inspired by the best aspects of the constitutions of other countries.
The concept of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity has come from the French Constitution.
The 5-year plan came from the Constitution of USSR.
Before 26th January 1950, India followed the Government of India Act 1935, made by the British Government.
The National Awards like Bharat Ratna, Padma Bhushan and Kriti Chakra are awarded on the Republic Day.
The Indian Airforce came into existence as an independent body on the Republic Day.
The Republic Day Parade starts from Rajpath and ends at Red Fort in Delhi.
A 21-gun salute is given to the National Flag and the President of India during the Republic Day Flag Hoisting Ceremony.
Republic Day 2020 is the first time when a woman army officer, Tania Shergill will lead the Army Day Parade.
Hindi was declared as the National Language of India on 26th January 1965.
Republic Day in India is an important event of Indian history. Let’s take a moment to salute the Constitution of India that stands second to none.
मेवाड़ के शिरोमणि शासक महाराणा प्रताप, बीकानेर के सामंत पृथ्वीराज राठौड़ और राजस्थान के सुप्रसिद्ध कवि कन्हैया लाल सेठिया: इन तीनों शख्सियतों की ऐतिहासिक पृष्ठभूमि के केंद्र में है एक पत्र; एक ऐसा दस्तावेज़ जिसने मेवाड़ के इतिहास का रुख बदल कर रख दिया| इस अहम् पत्र के पीछे छिपी है एक रोचक कहानी जो मेवाड़ के गौरवशाली नायक प्रताप के साहसिक जीवन में आये उतार चढ़ावों, टूटते आत्मविश्वास और उभरते शौर्य का भली भांति परिचय देती है | जब भारतवर्ष के रजवाड़ों के अधिकतर शासक मुग़ल सम्राट अकबर से संधि को ही अपनी नियति समझ चुके थे, तब मेवाड़ के स्वाभिमानी के राजा महाराणा प्रताप ही थे जिन्होंने शहंशाह-ए –हिंद से लोहा लेने की ठान ली थी| अकबर के सभी संधि प्रस्ताव ख़ारिज करते हुए, प्रताप ने निडर व्यक्तित्व का परिचय दिया और अंततः,युद्ध निश्चित था|
18 जून 1576 को, हल्दीघाटी में अकबर की विशालकाय सेना का सामना करने चट्टान सा साहस लिए खड़ी थी, प्रताप और उनके विश्वासपात्र योद्धाओं की छोटी सी टुकड़ी| अद्वितीय बहादुरी का परिचय देते हुए प्रताप की सेना अंत तक शत्रु को चुनौती देती रही| अकबर की सेना महाराणा को बंदी बनाने में कामयाब नहीं हो पाई और प्रताप का वफ़ादार घोड़ा चेतक, प्रताप को एक सुरक्षित स्थान पर पहुंचाने की कोशिश में, गंभीर रूप से ज़ख़्मी होने के कारण शहीद हो गया| युद्ध के बाद, महलों का आलीशान जीवन छोड़कर प्रताप अपने परिवार के साथ जंगलों में भटक रहे थे और छापामार युद्ध पद्दति की तैयारी में मसरूफ़ थे| जीवन अभावों में कट रहा था; तभी एक दिन उनके पुत्र के हाथ से घास की रोटी छीन कर एक जंगली बिल्ला ले गया| मेवाड़ के राजकुमार की ऐसी दुर्दशा देख कर, प्रताप का दिल भर आया और उन्होंने बेबस होकर, अकबर को संधि पत्र लिखकर मुग़लों की प्रभुता स्वीकार करने की ठानी| पत्र पाकर अकबर अचंभित हो गया क्योंकि उसे विश्वास नहीं हुआ कि प्रताप जैसा शूरवीर योद्धा भी हार मान सकता है|
राजस्थान के लोकप्रिय कवि कन्हैया लाल सेठिया ने अकबर की इस मनोस्थिति का उम्दा वर्णन अपनी कविता “पीथल और पाथल” में किया है:
“के आज हिमालय पिघल गयो
के आज हुयो सूरज शीतल
के आज शेष रो सर डोल्यो
आ सोच हुयो सम्राट विकल”
Creation By: Anurag Mehta
प्रताप के अनगिनत प्रशंसकों में से एक था, बीकानेर का सामंत, पृथ्वीराज राठौड़ (पीथल) जो प्रताप का अनन्य उपासक था और अकबर के सामने प्रताप की तारीफ़ों के पुल बाँध दिया करता था| अकबर ने दूत को भेजकर पृथ्वीराज को बुलवाया और वह पत्र दिखाया| भाट कह कर उसका मखौल उड़ाते हुए अकबर ने पूछा कि, कहाँ गया वो लहू जो राजपूती रगों में बहता था; क्या हुआ महाराणा के उस पराक्रम का जो किसी के आगे झुकना नहीं जानता था| वो पत्र पाकर पीथल ने पाथल (प्रताप) को एक ‘पाती’ लिखी; एक ऐसी पाती जिसने महाराणा के हारे हुए उत्साह को ललकारा और उन्हें समझाया कि दुनिया की हर असंभव चीज़ संभव हो सकती है, लेकिन महाराणा कभी हार मान ले, यह किसी भी हालत में मुमकिन नहीं हो सकता| सेठिया जी लिखते हैं:
“म्हें आज सुणी है‚ नाहरियो, स्याला रै सागै सोवैलो। म्हें आज सुणी है‚ सूरजड़ो‚ बादल री ओटाँ खोवैलो म्हें आज सुणी है, चातकड़ो धरती रो पाणी पीवेलो म्हें आज सुणी है हाथीड़ो कूकर री जून्या जीवेलो |”
इस पत्र को पढ़कर प्रताप को एहसास हो गया कि वे भावनाओं में बहकर अपने दृढ़ संकल्प की बलि देने को तैयार हो गए थे| पत्र पढ़कर वे एक नयी ऊर्जा और जूनून से भर गए और अपने संधि पत्र वाले कदम के लिए खुदको कायर कहकर धिक्कारा| इस प्रकार एक शासक के बुझे हुए हृदय में फिर से आत्मविश्वास की ज्वाला जलाई एक प्रशंसक ने, और एक लोक कवि ने इस घटना को कविता की पंक्तियों में गुथकर हमेशा के लिए अमरत्व का जामा पहना दिया| इस तरह, ये तीन व्यक्ति इतिहास के दोराहों पर मिले और एक सुनहरे अध्याय को माज़ी के पन्नों पर दर्ज़ करके जुदा हो गए|
General view from the north-west of the City Palace, Udaipur
Every city deserves a birthday celebration, a royal one deserves after party. According to tradition, Maharana Udai Singh founded Udaipur on this day i.e. Akshaya Tritiya or Akha Teej in 1553. Today on the foundation day of this beautiful lake city where all lakes are man-made. Let’s go through some of the important stories that everyone out needs to know. Udaipur was a strategic foundation as it is surrounded by Girwa valley that is approximately 20 Km in length and 15 Km broad. Aravalli range separates Mewar from the desert area of Rajasthan. A circular fertile Girwa valley was a perfect place to settle our future in.
A history that was created:
Travelling in past always interest people because the city we live in has a part of us and that is roots. Walking on the roads of the city and thinking about how things reached here, how this valley turned into a city beautiful. The brilliant time of wonder of Chittorgarh that started with Bappa Rawal and proceeded under Rawals Khumaans to Maharana Sanga (Sangram Singh 1509-1527) lost its unmistakable quality after Sanga’s demise. The third child of Sanga i.e. Maharana Udai Singh II, luckily rescued the circumstance through balanced and venturesome standard. The political circumstance in India was changing quickly which the youthful Maharana needed to battle with.
Maharana Sanga
The Portuguese built up themselves on the western bank of India with the new weapon of fighting the mounted guns, they set up themselves on the western shoreline of India-beginning in 1509 with development of ports and posts at Calicut, Cochin, Pulicat (Podouke), Goa, Bombay, Cambay, Diu, lastly landing in Gujarat by the 1530s. The Mughal ruler Babur set up himself in the north in 1526. He as well took the response to the new innovation of mounted guns. With the assistance of Portuguese, Bahadur Shah of Gujarat effectively attempted and tried the adequacy of cannons fighting on Chittaurgarh in 1535. They needed to inspire the Muslim ruler with the end goal of getting a decent footing on the Gujarat coast. They were likewise the primary “merchants” of black powder and gun in India. This viewpoint needs thought particularly in connection to the general discernment that Babur presented mounted guns fighting in India. Actually Portuguese beat the Mughal ruler by 25 years!
Maharana Udai Singh | Source: Eternal Mewar
With this foundation of an unfriendly and unstable north, a southern kingdom outfitted with new innovation and his own home in turmoil, Maharana Udai Singh admirably chose to conform to the changed circumstance in and around Mewar with “Krishan-Neeti”.
A Silent Warrior:
In around 1568, when Chittorgarh was attacked by Mughal Empire then Maharana moved his kingdom to Udaipur and hence the purpose of founding the city was served. Now the kingdom was defended by nature. The tall hills of Aravalli range fought hard all these years in the favour of Maharana. A silent knight.
Source: www.rajasthantrekking.com
It might interest you those Aravalli Hills are now broken beyond repair. What nature has given us we all know but maybe we don’t know how to return the favour. Inside one age, millions who once discovered it the hub of their sustenance, are presently accommodated to the loss of one of the planet’s most established physical highlights. This notwithstanding the way that a great many villages have announced changes in the nearby environment after the mountain range’s corruption, with critical effect on the general population’s lives. Knowing history might be easy but to preserve history is a task. A task for all the generations living the era that was gifted by the descendants.
Let’s take a pledge to preserve the beauty of the city and steer towards some interesting dates and facts about ‘Our Udaipur’.
1931- 1st cinema Hall – Mewar talkies
1943 1st Bank – Bharat bank ltd.
1915, 1st-time electricity was utilized in the palace.
1960 Feb 6, 1st flight from Airport- Air India (Delhi – Jaipur – Udaipur – Ahmedabad)
jag mandir island during the 18th century
Jag Mandir was the Inspiration for Taj Mahal: Shah Jahan mother was a Rajput woman, Maharana Karan Singh remained him securely inside the Jag Mandir Palace that was noted as ‘Gul-Mahal’ at the time. Shah Jahn adjacent to his better half and children were solid safe in Gul Mahal, it’s equivalent that sovereign religion got awed by the structure of Gul Mahal and planned Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the earth.
Udaipur- Kashmir of Rajasthan
Udaipur is also known as the ‘Kashmir of Rajasthan’: Udaipur is created like Kashmir once it comes regarding its beautiful landscapes, exciting sights and if truth be told a great thing about lakes. One more reason that connects Kashmir to Udaipur is that each of these cities is positioned on valleys that results in their spectacular beauty.
City palace
Maharana Udai Singh designed a six-kilometre-long town wall, with seven gates: Significantly Surajpole, Chandpole, Udiapole, Hathipole, Ambapole, Brahmpole are worth capturing. The realm among these walls and gates continues to be said the Old City or the walled town.
Gulabbagh
The sculpture of Queen Victoria is presently show-cased among the Saraswati Bhawan Library: In February 1890, a sculpture of Queen Victoria was unveiled among the Gulab Bagh. With the sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi stands amidst the luxurious garden; collectively the Saraswati Bhawan Library in Gulab Bagh was initially called as ‘Victoria Museum’.
Source: Pinterest
Sahastra-Bahu (Sas-Bahu) Temples is on a list of India’s Heritage Monument: Sahastra-Bahu Temples area is magnificently noted as ‘Sas-Bahu’ temples. Historical records say, that Sahastra Bahu means ‘Vishnu with one thousand arms’ but the native stories suggest a definite tale. They’re situated in Nagda at Udaipur, Located 20 km away from the city.
The curious case of Hare: Maharana Udai Singh II is said to have established his new capital city of Udaipur when he chased a rabbit/hare at Akshay Tritiya chase in the Girwa Valley, somewhat northwest of Ayad town. Same way chasing rabbit/hare Ahmedabad and Sirohi was found by their respective founders that too on Akshaya Tritiya.
Old Palace, Udaipur
With these stories, history is left open-ended. There is still a lot we need to know about this magical city, a book with empty pages where words need to be discovered to uncover. In the end, clinking glasses with the lakes, hills and aura of this city. We wish Venice of east a very Happy Birthday!
In the year 1982, the International Council on Monuments and Sites decided to celebrate 18 April as World Heritage Day. It was a step taken towards spreading awareness about monuments and other sites which are a part of our history. Udaipur is one of the most prominent cultural heritage signatures of Mewar.
Future generations have the right to live history through these heritage sites and hence they should be preserved. Udaipur – The Venice of East, a beautiful city guarded by the Aravalli range, was founded in the 16th century by Maharana Udai Singh. Since it was a circular piece of fertile land in between Girwa valley, it was declared as the capital of Mewar. The prosperous cultural heritage legacy was received by the different generations of rulers. City Palace, Jagdish temple, Saheliyon ki Bari, Ahar Cenotaphs, Monsoon Palace, Bagore Ki Haveli and many such locations in Udaipur act like a bridge between the generations.
City palace
A sense of royalty can be felt through the architecture of such sites. With each passing day, each monument of the city repeats the story to every visitor and this story needs to be conserved. Safeguarding of heritage sites is very important because they give a sense of identity and continuity in a fast-changing world to the coming generations. Heritage sites basically reflect the culture of the city.
Let’s go on a roller coaster ride through the heritage sites of the city or wait, rather, let’s walk together across the city. While walking towards the old city you see Gulab Bagh on your left and vintage car museum on your right. The transition from new to the old city is worth noticing and can be seen through the gates and architecture of houses. When the lanes start to narrow down, it means you are close to witnessing something magical.
City Palace:
City Palace, 1910
The palace complex situated on the east bank of Lake Pichola was constructed over a period of 400 years when the capital was shifted from Chittor district. The palace constantly got several modifications by other rulers of the dynasty. It was mostly constructed in Rajasthani style with a touch of Mughal architecture. It is designed so beautifully that it overlooks several other historical sites such as Lake Pichola, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace and a perfect view of the entire city. Crystal gallery is the major attraction in this complex.
Jagdish Temple:
Jagdish Temple
Moving ahead, when the streets will shrink further, a treat to eyes is guaranteed. On a junction of three roads, Jagdish Temple is situated. Jagdish temple was made by Maharana Jagat Singh in 1651. Maharana Jagat Singh ruled Udaipur for 25 years from 1628 to 1653. The temple is dedicated to the preserver of the universe Lord Vishnu. It is the largest temple in the city. After 28 years of the construction of the temple, Mughal ruler Aurangzeb wanted the temple to get destroyed and sent his army to do so. But the army of Maharana Raj Singh (ruler of Udaipur back then) didn’t let them succeed. Thank god a unique specimen of architecture was saved for us.
Saheliyon ki Bari:
Saheliyon Ki Badi
Tired already? Let’s take an auto to Saheliyon ki Bari which is approximately 4 Kms away from the core of the city. Saheliyon ki Bari’s heritage talks about a group of forty-eight young women attendants who came with the princess as a part of her dowry. It is a major garden of the city and was built in the year 1710 by Maharana Sangram Singh for the royal ladies. Imagine a historic garden built for a queen. Royalness of this place is refreshing.
Ahar Cenotaphs:
Ahar cenotaph complex
Now moving toward the destination where these great creators of this dynasty are buried. It has a total of 372 cenotaphs of around 19 Maharanas who once ruled the city. This spectacular field of domes was built approx. 400 years back. Most attractive cenotaph that you will be able to spot will be of Maharana Sangram Singh, go look for it and the newest was built in the year 2004 of Udaipur’s last Maharana, Bhagwat Singh. After a walk of 150 m from Ahar Cenotaphs, you can find Ahar government museum which contains copper and pottery objects that are around 3300-years-old.
Tip: Observe the silence here.
Monsoon Palace or Sajjan Garh:
Sajjangarh
We can’t walk to next destination but I bet the way to that place is an adventure in itself. The monsoon palace, also called Sajjangarh palace is a hilltop palace at a distance of around 7 km from the city. It was built by Maharana Sajjan Singh in the year 1884. It is said that from there monsoon clouds could be seen coming towards the city. It was originally constructed by the royal family of Mewar and is now owned by the forest department of the government of Rajasthan but you don’t need to worry about that. The beautiful palace gives you a mind-blowing view of the sunset and is supposedly called monsoon palace because it seems like the palace is floating in heaven during Monsoon.
A view of the old city
There are many such locations around which will take you back in time. On every location, one can stand and feel that the place has been standing there for a long time and knows the secrets that you might be interested in.
On this World Heritage Day, let’s take a pledge of preserving these locations on our part. Engraving names of your loved ones won’t make you a hero but preserving cultural heritage can make you one. Also, good knowledge to have, there are dustbins around these locations, please use them and don’t litter. Not just one day, make every day as Heritage Day. Come and celebrate this auspicious day like a festival because these monuments are none less than time travel machines.
For centuries, Rajasthan has witnessed several marauders and people from different regions of the world and that is the reason why the region has absorbed some of the traditions, culture, and style of these visitors.
The land of Rajasthan is ancient which has witnessed perhaps one of the earliest human civilizations. These civilizations include Kalibangan dating as far back as the fourth millennium. Every community and tribe here has its own typical costume with different significance dating back to the time when they were adopted or evolved.
It comes as no surprise that the fabrics, prints, textiles, and jewelry of Rajasthan have inspired the contemporary fashion as well. Prominent designers such as Anita Dongre, Sabyasachi, Neeta Lulla and many more have been inspired by Rajasthani clothing. There are several Rajasthani clothing elements such as
Women’s dress
The women of Rajasthan are much like the region itself. They are all swathed in colors and traditions. From centuries the women costume has involved a lower garment (Ghaghra or the skirt), an upper garment (Kurti, Kanchli, and Puthia) and a veil (Odhni or Ghoonghat) that flow across the upper as well as a lower garment on the body. Although there are variations and additions in these according to different communities the basic structure remains the same even today.
Ghaghra
Source: flickr
Ghaghra is a form of long skirt which is embroidered and pleated. It covers the legs partially or fully depending upon the ethnic groups they belong. The Ghaghra is secured at the waist or hips and is made out of two to three layers of coarse Khadi fabric which created the flared look. Ghagras decorated with gota and badla embroidery were also worn on special occasions. In the present time, the ghagra or lehenga makes a perfect bridal ensemble. Contemporary Indian designers such as Anita Dongre and ‘Abraham and Thakore’ have showcased Rajasthani influences in their designs. Yet the influence hasn’t restrained itself just to Indian designers.
Ghoonghat
Source: Flickr
A ghoonghat is known by a number of names such as ghunghta, ghumta, odhni, laaj, chunari, jhund, odhna, etc. It is a veil or headscarf which is used by the women to cover their head and often their face. Generally, aanchal or pallu which is the loose end of the ghoonghat is pulled over the face or the head. The ghoonghat was showcased by Elie Saab at Paris Fashion Week in the year 2016.
Kanchli
Source: Utsavpedia
The utility of Kanchli is almost the same as that of Puthia. It is also called as Angia or choli. Kanchli is mostly worn by married women in many communities in Rajasthan. Kanchli is worn in conjunction with Kurti. Kurti is usually a garment with sleeves or without it and a deep, horseshoe neckline. Designer Valentino showcased contemporary women’s clothing which was inspired kurtis worn by women in Rajasthan.
Puthia
Source: Culture Trip
Puthia is a double-breasted upper garment which is quite similar to angarkha and its shorter version, angarkhi. The antiquity of the garment can be determined by the fact that the term Angarkha is derived by the Sanskrit words Anga means body and Raksha means protection. Many sculptures, paintings, and early Sanskrit literature represent the clothing element artfully tied around the chest. Puthia portrays non-fertile phase of women. The costume is not worn after a girl reaches puberty.
Jootis
Source: Sukh Studios
Jootis are the traditional Rajasthani footwear which can be worn by either men or women. These can be paired with Kurti/kurta for a casual look or with Ghaghra or bandhgalas.
Men’s Dress
The outfit of men in Rajasthan has been exposed with outsiders who have visited the region in successive migratory waves. And for the same reason, the men’s clothing is an assimilation of historical and foreign influences.
Kurta
Source: Masterfile
A kurta is an upper garment originally worn by men, though now it is majorly worn by a woman which is known as Kurti. A Kurta is a collarless shirt falling just above somewhere below the knees of the wearer. The word Kurta has been derived from Sanskrit Kuratu/Kurtaka.
Bandhgalas
Bandhgalas are perfect for weddings and can be paired with Dhotis and kurtas. Bandhgalas along with turbans and Jodhpuris were showcased by Jean Paul Gaultier which displayed the royal tradition of Rajasthan during a fashion week in Paris.
Dhoti
Source: Picfair
Dhoti is renowned with different names such as panche, vesti, dhuti, mardani, chaadra, dhotar or panchey is a traditional garment for men. It is an unstitched piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and the legs and is knotted at the waist. Dhoti has been evolved from the ancient antriya which passed through the legs, tucked at the back covering the legs loosely.
Angarkha
Source: Utsavpedia
Angarkha is also worn by men, though the style differs a bit. Angarkha is overlapped and tied to the left or right shoulder. The Angrkha used to be a court outfit that a person could wrap around himself. It also offered flexibility with the knots and ties.
Rajasthani Pagri
Source: Pinterest
Turbans which are worn in Rajasthan are known as Rajasthani Pagri. These Pagris are used to indicate the social class, caste, and region of the wearer. Sometimes they differ on the basis of occasion also. People from hot desert area wear large and loose turbans whereas farmer and shepherds wear one of the biggest turbans which can protect them from harmful natural elements. It is possible that it was originated because it has various functions as well.
Rajasthani travelers used it as a pillow, a blanket or a towel; it was also used to strain muddy water or to draw water from a well after tying it to the bucket.
Rajasthani Jewelry
Source: Local style
Traditional Rajasthani Jewelry plays a very important role in Rajasthani fashion. Pieces of jewelry such as Nath (nose ring), payal, Mang tikas, etc. are very famous of them all. In the year 2011, a collection of traditional Rajasthani fashion was represented by Karl Lagerfeld which included mang tikas, kurtas and payals.
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Nathdwara – The Gateway to Shrinathji houses an intricate art form practiced from last several decades. Picchwai was originated with a purpose of, other than artistic appeal, narrating tales of Krishna to the illiterate. The art form is basically an intricate painting that depicts the theatrical life of Krishna’s life which is called his ‘Leela’.
Source: Pikbee
The word Picchwai has its roots from the Sanskrit word ‘pich’ which means behind and ‘vai’ which means textile hanging. And that is why it is typically hung behind the sanctum of his own manifestation, Shrinathji. In ancient times, it was often used to create a devotional atmosphere for the daily ‘Shringaar’ – the special adornment of the deity. It was when artists, out of devotion, started making backdrops to depict Lord Shrinathji in different moods, settings and seasons.
Source: Architectural Digest
Process of making Pichhwai
A rough sketch is prepared by the artist on a starched cloth first and later it is filled with colors. The traditional Pichhwai paintings were made up from natural colors and brushes made from hairs of a horse, goat or squirrel but with time, faster and less expensive material replaced them. Few paintings are still available which are made up of natural colors. Some paintings also demand the use of pure gold which adds to their value and charm. The process of preparing the color from pure gold takes around 3-4 days.
Source: GaathaSource: Gaatha
Apart from that, Picchwai painting for the temple backdrop can take up to 2-3 months to prepare. These huge Pichwais are commissioned by the wealthy people of around the country while for the common man, a smaller version of these paintings are available which they can take for the shrine at their home.
Source: News 18
Pichhwai artists in Nathdwara
Most of the Picchwai artists reside in the Chitron ki Gali or Chitrakaron ka Mohalla in Nathdwara who makes a close community with constant interaction. Currently, there are only 10-12 original Pichhwai artists in Nathdwara which includes people like Narottam Narayan Sharma and BG Sharma. Most of these artists also paint the newer form which is in demand.
Some renowned Pichhwai artists from Nathdwara are –
Narottam Narayan Sharma
Narayan Sharma is widely known for his images of Lord Krishna which earned him fame in the entire North Indian region. His work was even more influential than the works of Raja Ravi Varma. Several of his paintings were published as posters by S.S Brijbasi, a firm based in Karachi, using chromolithography and were printed in Germany. His painting ‘Murli Manohar’ became the best-selling image in the history of the industry. His other famous paintings involved Shree Satyanarain, Kailash Pati Shankar, depictions of Maharana Pratap and Shivaji, and images of the independence struggle including portraits of Gandhi and Nehru, Gandhiji ki swargyatra (Gandhi’s ascent to heaven) etc. Narottam Narayan Sharma was initially trained at Udaipur.
Murli Manohar | Source: eindiaartfestival
BG Sharma
Bhanwar Lal Girdhari Lal Sharma (B. G. Sharma) is a renowned artist who earned his fame from his miniature devotional paintings and his classic Rajasthani art which includes the Mughal, Kishangarh, and Kangra styles. His work has been internationally exhibited in London, Germany, and the United States.
Source: formsofdevotion
Sharma’s family had been artists for generations. Moreover, there is an art gallery named as Shri B.G.Sharma Art Gallery in Udaipur which contains an extensive collection his work.
Apart from that, Former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, British monarch Queen Elizabeth II and former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser all have commissioned portraits by Sharma. He has been awarded various awards including India’s National Art Award for Master Craftsman. A collection of Sharma’s artwork was also published in September 2000 titled Form of Beauty: The Krishna Art of B.G.Sharma.
The Three Generations of Picchwai Artists
Source: theartistofnathdwara
The family has been aligned to Nathdwara Picchwai Art since ancient times. It is said that the ancestors of the family have been descended to Nathdwara with the arising of Shrinathji in town. The current artist of the Sharma family is Mr. Parmanand Sharma preceded by Devkrishna Sharma and Kanhaiyalal Sharma. The family is known for their miniature Picchwai painting. His work has been researched by the American scholar Tryna Lyons which has been narrated in his book ‘The Artists of Nathdwara’.
Apart from Picchwai, these artists also paint the idol of Shrinathji in the temple which people can take back to their homes. Since photography is not allowed in the temple, these paintings help the devotees to pray to Lord Shrinathji whenever they want.
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There have been some such personalities in the ancient people’s life of Rajasthan who have taken their lives for public welfare and became immortal in the form of God. Some of these folk deities have been called as Pir (a holy person). According to a rumor, five are in Rajasthan, whose names are Pabuji, Harbuji, Ramdevji, Goga Ji and Meha Ji.
Pabuji
Source: History & Literature
Lok Devata Pabuji was born in the village of Kolumand near Phalodi in Jodhpur district in samvat 1313 (1239 AD). Pabuji’s marriage was fixed with the daughter of Sodha Rana Surajmal of Amarkot. Veer Pabuji Rathore, while taking the Pheras of his marriage, heard that his brother-in-law, Mr. Jindrao Khichi, was arrogating the Deval Charani’s cow. Upon listening to the kidnapping of cows, he immediately stood up between the Pheras and sacrificed his life while saving the cows.
For the same reason, Pabuji is also called the protector of cows, camels and other animals (God of camels). He is also considered as plague protectors. Moreover, when the animals become ill, a thread of his name is tied to the animal. It is believed that it eliminates the disease of the animal. At some places, Pabuji is considered as the avatar of Laxmanji.
Source: shri1008pabujimaharaj.blogspot
Every year on Chaitra Amavasya a huge fair is conducted at Pabuji’s main temple in the village Kolumand, Jodhpur where devotees come in thousands and offer tribute to them.
Ramdev Ji
There are very few such deities in the country in front of which both Hindu and Muslims shower their faith. Ramdev Ji is one such deity. Ramdev Ji was born Bhadarva Shukla Dooj in Vikram Samvat. 1409 at Ramderiya in Barmer district. It is said that Ramdev Ji had some miraculous powers and that is the reason his fame reached to different parts of the country.
Source: ramdevjirunicha.blogspot
Legends say that five Pirs from Mecca came to test the powers of Ramdev Ji. He invited them to have lunch with him. The pirs said that they only eat in their personal utensils. On hearing about this, Ramdev Ji smiled and said that look your utensils are coming and the pirs saw that their bowls and utensils were coming their way flying in the air. This convinced the Pirs about the powers and abilities and gave the name ‘Rama Shah Peer’ to him. The Pirs were so overwhelmed by his powers that they decided to stay with him and their samadhi is also near the samadhi of Ramdev.
Source: Tour My India
Ramdev is also considered as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Thus, he has become a center of faith for Hindus as well.
Meha Ji
Meha Ji was born in the 13th century in the village Bapini village of Jodhpur district, Rajasthan. Mehaji was married to Mahecha Mallinath’s daughter. Mehaji had promised a woman to protect her cows, who was her sister by religion. Meha Ji sacrificed his life while saving the cows. A huge fair is conducted every year on the occasion of Janmashtami at Mehasagar Lake near Jodhpur.
Harbuji
Source: gyandarpan
After the demise of his father, Harbuji left the village Bhankale and performed penance in the forest of Chakhu village of Phalodi (north-west of Jodhpur). Here, he met the famous folk god of Rajasthan, Ramdev Tanwar. From then on, Harbuji became the disciple of Ramdev Ji’s teacher, Guru Balnath. Mandor (Marwar’s capital) was captured by Mewar after killing Rathore Rampal. The son of Ranjit Rathod and the founder of Jodhpur, Rao Jodha was struggling in a guerrilla war to liberate Mandor from Mewar. During all this, Rao met Harbuji in the jungle of Jodha. Rao Jodha sought the blessing of success in the battle of his freedom against Mewar from Harbuji. Harbuji blessed him and predicted that his reign will spread from Mewar to Janglu. His predictions came true and Rao Jodha’s heroic descendants ruled till India’s independence.
Gogaji
Veer Gogaji was the ultimate disciple of Gururgorkhnath. He was born in Vikram Samvat 1003 in Dadreva village of Churu district. The birthplace of Siddha Veer Gogadev is located in Dattakhera Dadreva of Churu district of Rajasthan, where people from all religions and sects come from far away to seek blessing from him.
Source: Patrika
Back in his time, Gogadev’s marriage was fixed with Kolmand’s princess, Kelmade. But just before the marriage, Kelmade was bitten by a snake. Gogaji became angry and started chanting his mantras. With the power of his mantra, all the snakes began going towards a pan of hot oil and started dying. On coming to know about the fact, the King of snakes came and apologized to Gogaji and sucked the poison out of Kelmade. This calmed Gogaji.
This is the reason why Gogaji is popular as the ‘protector of snakes’. Even after being a Hindu, he has many Muslim devotees and is chiefly considered to be a Pir who had the power to cure the effects of the poison. Various fairs and celebrations are conducted all around the country to worship Gogaji. These regions include Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and the northwestern districts of Uttar Pradesh. His followers can also be found in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.
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