Maharana Pratap, one of the most iconic figures in Indian history, has a deep and historic connection with Udaipur and the region of Mewar. He was the ruler of Mewar in the 16th century and is renowned for his bravery and resistance against the Mughal Empire, especially during the famous Battle of Haldighati in 1576.
Here's how Maharana Pratap is related to Udaipur:
Capital of Mewar: Udaipur became the capital of the Mewar kingdom during the reign of Maharana Udai Singh II in the 16th century. Maharana Pratap, his son, ruled from Udaipur after his father’s death. Even though his capital was Udaipur, it was not an easy reign for Maharana Pratap due to his conflicts with the Mughal Empire and his struggle to maintain his kingdom.
Maharana Pratap's Legacy: Maharana Pratap is remembered for his steadfastness, courage, and unyielding resistance to the Mughal forces. While Udaipur was the seat of his kingdom, Maharana Pratap is often linked to Kumbhalgarh Fort and Chavand Fort as significant locations during his rule, particularly after the Mughal forces defeated him at the Battle of Haldighati. He spent several years in exile, away from Udaipur, but the city remains central to his legacy as the heart of his kingdom.
Maharana Pratap's Statues and Memorials: In Udaipur, there are various monuments and statues dedicated to Maharana Pratap, including the Maharana Pratap Memorial located on a hilltop near the Fatehsagar Lake, which honors his bravery and sacrifices. The Pratap Gaurav Kendra, a museum in Udaipur, also showcases his life and battles.
Symbol of Resistance: Udaipur and its surroundings symbolize the courage and resilience of Maharana Pratap, who refused to submit to Mughal rule despite the significant challenges he faced. His refusal to accept Mughal suzerainty remains one of the proudest chapters in the history of Mewar and Rajasthan.
In short, Maharana Pratap's relation to Udaipur is that of both a ruler and a symbol of unrelenting resistance. His legacy continues to be celebrated in Udaipur, making the city a key part of his story and the history of Mewar.