Maharana Pratap Jayanti is celebrated in the Northern and Western states of India, particularly Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan on June 13. According to the Hindu calendar, the king’s birthday is on the third day of the month of Jyeshtha which is June 13 in the Gregorian calendar. Maharana Pratap Jayanti is celebrated in honor of the great Rajput ruler of the 16th century who stood up against the might of the Mughal empire. Maharana Pratap has also inspired Rajputana culture, warfare, and scientific thinking. His presence is still greatly felt in the architecture and traditions of Rajasthan.
History of Maharana Pratap Jayanti
Maharana Pratap was born in 1540. He was born to king Maharana Udai Singh II —the ruler of the Kingdom of Mewar. At the time, the capital of the Mewar kingdom was Chittor. He was the eldest of the king’s children and was anointed the crown prince.
In 1567, Chittor was attacked by the formidable forces of the Mughal Empire. Under the leadership of Emperor Akbar, the forces managed to force Maharana Udai Singh II to leave Chittor and relocate to Gogunda. Maharana Udai Singh II died in 1572, and after facing some resistance from one of his siblings, Pratap Singh became ascended to the throne and became the Maharana of Mewar. His desire to win back Chittor would become the most endeavor of his life. He declined several peace treaties with Akbar and refused to give up the independence of the Mewar Kingdom. He fought bravely against the superior Mughal forces but never relinquished his power. However, he could never win back Chittor. He was greatly admired by Emperor Akbar for his steadfast principles.
It was believed that Maharana Pratap was more than seven feet tall. He would wear body armor of more than 70 kilos and a spear weighing 80 kilos! He had 11 wives and 22 children. His eldest son, Maharana Amar Singh I went on to become his successor and the 14th king of the Mewar dynasty. Maharana Pratap died in 1597 after being injured in a hunting accident. He is remembered for his imitable honor and love for his people.
Maharana Pratap Jayanti timeline
He ascends to the throne after the death of his father Maharana Udai Singh II.
The Mughals are victorious but fail to capture Maharana Pratap.
Maharana Pratap recaptures Western Mewar from Mughal forces.
Former president of India Pratibha Patil unveils the statue.
Maharana Pratap Jayanti FAQs
Is any Mughals still alive?
Bahadur Shah Zafar is considered the last Mughal emperor. His legitimate children were killed by Britishers after the war of 1857 in Delhi itself and Bahadur Shah Zafar was deported to Burma. There he died in 1862 and his grave is present in Rangoon.
How did Akbar react on Maharana Pratap death?
When the Mughal messenger announced Pratap’s death at Akbar’s court, Akbar took a long pause, and tears rolled down his eyes in front of everybody. Because despite being his arch-rival, Akbar admired Maharana Pratap a lot, as he was the greatest warrior Akbar had ever seen.
Where is Maharana Pratap's Sword?
Maharana Pratap, the Rajput monarch, wielded two swords that each weighed about 25 kg. If he were unarmed, it is stated that he would present one sword to his opponent before combat. The swords are currently on display in the Maharana Pratap museum in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
Maharana Pratap Jayanti Activities
Visit Rajasthan
A great way to celebrate Maharana Pratap Jayanti is by visiting Rajasthan. In Rajasthan, you will be able to appreciate the extent of Maharana Pratap’s influence on everyday life and common people.
Read Mewar history
If you are a history buff, you can celebrate Maharana Pratap Jayanti by reading about Mewar's history, especially the lives of Maharana Pratap and his successors. Plenty of books and academic material are easily available on the great king.
Visit a museum
If you cannot go all the way to India to celebrate Maharana Pratap Jayanti, consider visiting a museum that has Indian artifacts on display. It is a good way to learn a bit about Indian history.
5 Facts About Rajasthan
The state has color-coded cities
Jaipur is Pink City, Jodhpur is Blue City, Udaipur is White City, and Jaisalmer is Golden City.
It’s as big as Germany
It is the largest state in India.
Only nuclear destination in India
India’s nuclear weapons are tested out in Pokhran.
There’s a temple where rats are worshiped
In Karni Mata temple, Bikaner, rats are worshipped alongside the temple deity.
The second largest wall in the world
“The Kumbhalgarh Forst” is the second largest wall in the world.
Why We Love Maharana Pratap Jayanti
A grand king
Maharana Pratap was one of the most eminent rulers to have ever ruled in India. Maharana Pratap Jayanti pays homage to the great king and his visionary leadership.
Brings the world closer
Celebrations such as Maharana Pratap Jayanti make us aware of the history that is beyond our immediate vicinity. When we learn the history of other cultures, we become more empathetic and aware of our common struggles and ambitions.
A lesson in honor and patriotism
Maharana Pratap is worshipped as an example of honor and patriotism. Maharana Pratap Jayanti helps us understand what love for our people and land truly means. It also teaches us how to conduct ourselves with honor.
Maharana Pratap Jayanti dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | June 13 | Thursday |
| 2025 | June 13 | Friday |
| 2026 | June 13 | Saturday |
| 2027 | June 13 | Sunday |
| 2028 | June 13 | Tuesday |
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