May 9: Birth Anniversary of Maharana Pratap Singh I

Maharana Pratap Singh popularly known as “Maharana” was the 13^th king of Mewar (the present Rajasthan). He was born on May 9, 1540.

Rana and the Mughals

The “Siege of Chittorgarh” led to the loss of fertile eastern belt to the Mughals in 1568. Akbar wanted to establish a secure route to Gujarat through Mewar. So, he sent number of envoys to King Rana to become a vassal just like the other Rajputs. Rana refused. Hence, the Battle of Haldighati was fought

Battle of Haldighati

Maharana is known for his bravery in the Battle of Haldighati. The battle was fought on 18 June, 1576 between Maharana and the forces of Akbar. Rana fought with 22,000 forces against 2 lakh soldiers of the Mughal army. The Mughals were led by Man Singh of Amber. Rana’s forces were defeated in 6 hours.

Reconquest

Though, the Rana lost, he and his chief army men escaped with wounds. They re-gathered their forces, fought and won against the Mughals after six years in 1582. The Mughals faced terrible defeat and Akbar stopped his military campaigns against Mewar after this.

Also, Rana recaptured Udaipur, Gogunda and Kumbhalgarh when Akbar was concentrating on the north western front.

Month: Current Affairs - May, 2020