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{{Short description|Maharana of Mewar from 1572–1597}}
{{Short description|Maharana of Mewar from 1572 to 1597}}
{{Other people|Pratap Singh|Pratap Singh (disambiguation)}}
{{Other people|Pratap Singh|Pratap Singh (disambiguation)}}
{{Use Indian English|date=May 2015}}
{{pp-extended|small=yes}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2022}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2023}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}
{{Infobox royalty
{{Infobox royalty
| name        = Maharana Pratap
| name        = Maharana Pratap
| title        = '''[[Maharana]]''' <br/> '''Mewari Rana''' <br/> '''Kika'''
| title        = [[Maharana]]<br/>Mewari Rana
| image        = File:Maharana Pratap By Surendra Singh Shaktawat.jpg
| image        = File:Maharana Pratap By Surendra Singh Shaktawat.jpg
| caption      = Portrait of Maharana Pratap
| caption      = Portrait of Maharana Pratap by [[Raja Ravi Varma]]
| succession  = {{flagicon image|Mewar.svg}} 13th [[Rana (title)|Rana]] of [[Udaipur State|Mewar]]
| succession  = {{flagicon image|Mewar.svg}} 13th [[List of Ranas of Mewar|Rana]] of [[Kingdom of Mewar|Mewar]]
| reign        = 1572 – 1597<ref name=brittanica>{{cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rana-Pratap-Singh|title=Rana Pratap Singh – Indian ruler|publisher=Encyclopedia Britannica|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616003537/https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rana-Pratap-Singh|archive-date=16 June 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
| reign        = 28 February 1572 – 19 January 1597<ref name=brittanica>{{cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rana-Pratap-Singh|title=Rana Pratap Singh – Indian ruler|publisher=Encyclopedia Britannica|access-date=1 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616003537/https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rana-Pratap-Singh|archive-date=16 June 2018|url-status=live}}</ref>
| coronation  = 28 February 1572
| coronation  = 28 February 1572
| predecessor  = [[Udai Singh II]]
| predecessor  = [[Udai Singh II]]
| successor    = [[Amar Singh I]]
| successor    = [[Amar Singh I]]
| birth_date  = {{birth-year|9 May 1540}}
| birth_date  = {{birth-year|18 May 1540}}
| birth_place  = [[Kumbhalgarh]], [[Mewar]]<ref name=brittanica /><ref>{{cite book |title=Ritual and Identity: Performative Practices as Effective Transformations of Social Reality |editor1-first=Klaus-Peter |editor1-last=Köpping |editor2-first=Bernhard |editor2-last=Leistle |editor3-first=Michael |editor3-last=Rudolph |publisher=LIT Verlag Münster |year=2006 |page=286 |isbn=978-3-82588-042-2 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BkBh1Nl4dHwC&pg=PA286 |access-date=11 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170412063214/https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=BkBh1Nl4dHwC&pg=PA286 |archive-date=12 April 2017 |url-status=live }}</ref><br/>(present day: Kumbhal Fort, [[Rajsamand District]], [[Rajasthan]], [[India]])
| birth_place  = [[Kumbhalgarh]], [[Kingdom of Mewar]]<ref name=brittanica /><ref>{{cite book |title=Ritual and Identity: Performative Practices as Effective Transformations of Social Reality |editor1-first=Klaus-Peter |editor1-last=Köpping |editor2-first=Bernhard |editor2-last=Leistle |editor3-first=Michael |editor3-last=Rudolph |publisher=LIT Verlag Münster |year=2006 |page=286 |isbn=978-3-82588-042-2 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BkBh1Nl4dHwC&pg=PA286 |access-date=11 April 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170412063214/https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=BkBh1Nl4dHwC&pg=PA286 |archive-date=12 April 2017 |url-status=live }}</ref><br/>(present day: [[Kumbhalgarh|Kumbhalgarh Fort]], [[Rajsamand District]], [[Rajasthan]], [[India]])
| death_date  = {{death date and age|1597|1|19|1540|5|9|df=yes}}<ref name=brittanica />
| death_date  = {{death date and age|1597|1|19|1540|5|9|df=yes}}<ref name=brittanica />
| death_place  = [[Chavand, Rajasthan|Chavand]], [[Mewar]]<ref name=brittanica /><br/>(Present day:Chavand, [[Udaipur District]], Rajasthan, India)
| death_place  = [[Chavand, Rajasthan|Chavand]], [[Kingdom of Mewar]]<ref name=brittanica /><br/>(Present day: Chavand, [[Udaipur District]], Rajasthan, India)
| spouse      = 11<ref name="c9o">{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/maharana-pratap-jayanti-know-the-real-life-story-of-the-brave-rajput-warrior-2174403.html|title=Maharana Pratap Jayanti: Know the Real-life Story of the brave Rajput warrior|website=News18|date=6 June 2019|access-date=25 April 2021}}</ref>{{Sfn|Nahar|2011|p=7}} including:{{Unbulleted list
| queen        = [[Ajabde]]
|Maharani Ajabde Punwar
| spouse      = 10<ref name="c9o">{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/maharana-pratap-jayanti-know-the-real-life-story-of-the-brave-rajput-warrior-2174403.html|title=Maharana Pratap Jayanti: Know the Real-life Story of the brave Rajput warrior|website=News18|date=6 June 2019 |access-date=25 April 2021}}</ref>{{Sfn|Nahar|2011|p=7}}{{Unbulleted list
|Phool Bai Rathore
|[[Phool Bai Rathore]]
|Amarbai Rathore
|Solankhinpur Bai
|Jasobai Chauhan
|Champa Bai Jhala
|Alamdebai Chauhan
|Jaso Bai Chauhan
|Champabai Jhati
|Alamde Bai Chauhan
|Lakhabai
|Asha Bai Khichar
|Khichar Asha Bai
|Shahmati Bai Hada
|Solankhinipur Bai
|Ratnawati Bai Parmar
|Shahmatibai Hada
|Lakhi Bai Solanki
|Ratnawatibai Parmar
|Amar Bai Rathore
}}
}}
| issue        = 22 (including [[Amar Singh I]] and Bhagwan Das) and 5 daughters<ref name="c9o" />
| issue        = 22 (including [[Amar Singh I]] and Bhagwan Das) and 5 daughters<ref name="c9o" />
| full name    = Maharana Pratap Singh Sisodiya
| full name    = Maharana Pratap Singh Sisodia
| dynasty      = [[Sisodias of Mewar]]
| dynasty      = [[Sisodia dynasty|Sisodia]]
| father      = [[Udai Singh II]]
| father      = [[Udai Singh II]]
| mother      = Maharani Jaiwanta Bai
| mother      = [[Jaiwanta Bai|Jaiwanta Bai Songara]]
| religion    = [[Hinduism]]
| religion    = [[Hinduism]]
| regent      = [[Bhamashah]]
| regent      = [[Bhamashah]]<br />[[Man Singh Jhala|Jhala Man Singh]]
| reg-type    = Ministers
| reg-type    = Ministers
}}
}}
{{Mewari Rana}}
{{Mewari Rana}}
'''Pratap Singh I''', popularly known as '''Maharana Pratap''' (c. 9 May 1540 – 19 January 1597), was a [[Hindu]] [[Rajput]] king of [[Mewar]] from the [[Sisodias of Mewar|Sisodia dynasty]]. Pratap became a folk hero for his military resistance against the expansionism of the [[Mughal Empire]] under [[Akbar]] through [[guerrilla warfare]] which proved inspirational for later rebels against [[Mughal Empire|Mughals]] including [[Shivaji]].
{{double image|left|10 Rupee commemorative coin of 475th Birth Anniversary of Maharana Pratap (front face).png|150|10 Rupee commemorative coin of 475th Birth Anniversary of Maharana Pratap (Back face).png|150|Front and back view of 10 Rupee commemorative coin, released on 2015.  On the occasion of commemorating the 475th Birth Anniversary of Maharana Pratap.}}
'''Pratap Singh I''' (18 May 1540 – 19 January 1597), popularly known as '''Maharana Pratap''' ({{IPA|hi|məɦaːˈɾaːɳaː pɾəˈtaːp|IPA|audio=Maharana Pratap.ogg}}), was king of the [[Kingdom of Mewar]], in north-western India in the present-day state of [[Rajasthan]], from 1572 until his death in 1597. He is notable for leading the [[Rajput confederacy|Rajput]] resistance against the expansionist policy of the [[Mughal Emperor]] [[Akbar]] including the [[battle of Haldighati]].


== Early life and accession ==
== Early life and accession ==
Maharana Pratap was born to [[Udai Singh II]] of [[Udaipur State|Mewar]] and [[Jaiwanta Bai]].{{sfn|Rana|2004|pp=28, 105}}<ref>{{cite book|last=Sarkar|first=Jadunath|title=A History of Jaipur|publisher=Orient Blackswan|year=1994|isbn=978-8-12500-333-5|page=48|author-link=Jadunath Sarkar}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Daryanani|first=Mohan B.|title=Who's who on Indian Stamps| year=1999|isbn=978-8-49311-010-9|page=302}}</ref> His younger brothers were [[Shakti Singh (16th century Indian noble)|Shakti Singh]], Vikram Singh and Jagmal Singh. Pratap also had 2 stepsisters: Chand Kanwar and Man Kanwar. He was married to Maharani Ajabde Punwar of Bijolia<ref>{{Cite book|last=Bhatt|first=Rajendra Shankar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cHFuAAAAMAAJ|title=Maharana Pratap|date=2005|publisher=National Book Trust, India|isbn=978-81-237-4339-4|language=en}}</ref> [[Amar Singh I]].<ref>{{Cite book|last=Sharma|first=Sri Ram|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3twgPwAACAAJ|title=Maharana Pratap: A Biography|date=2002|publisher=Hope India Publ.|isbn=978-81-7871-005-1|language=en}}</ref> He belonged to the Royal Family of [[Mewar]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Maharana Pratap & his times|first1=Gopi Nath|last1=Sharma|first2=M. N.|last2=Mathur|publisher=Maharana Pratap Smarak Samiti|location=[[Udaipur State]]|page=29}}</ref> After the death of Udai Singh in 1572, Rani Dheer Bai wanted her son [[Jagmal Singh|Jagmal]] to succeed him<ref>{{cite book|last=Lal|first=Muni|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zExuAAAAMAAJ|title=Akbar|publisher=Vikas Publishers|year=1980|isbn=978-0-70691-076-6|location=[[University of Michigan]]|page=135}}</ref> but senior courtiers preferred Pratap, [[primogeniture|as the eldest son]], to be their king. The desire of the nobles prevailed. Udai Singh died in 1572, and Prince Pratap ascended the throne as Maharana Pratap, the 54th ruler of [[Mewar]] in the line of the [[Sisodia|Sisodia Rajputs]].{{Sfnm|1a1=Augustus|1y=1890|1p=190|2a1=Rana|2y=2004|2p=17}} Jagmal swore revenge and left for [[Ajmer]], to join the armies of [[Akbar]], and obtained the town of [[Jahazpur]] as a ''[[Jagir]]'' as a gift in return for his help.{{Sfn|Majumdar|1974|p=234}}
Maharana Pratap was born to [[Udai Singh II]] of [[Udaipur State|Mewar]] and [[Jaiwanta Bai]] in 1540, the year in which Udai Singh ascended to the throne after defeating [[Vanvir singh|Vanvir Singh]].{{sfn|Rana|2004|pp=28, 105}}<ref>{{cite book|last=Sarkar|first=Jadunath|title=A History of Jaipur|publisher=Orient Blackswan|year=1994|isbn=978-8-12500-333-5|page=48|author-link=Jadunath Sarkar}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Daryanani|first=Mohan B.|title=Who's who on Indian Stamps| year=1999|isbn=978-8-49311-010-9|page=302|publisher=Mohan B. Daryanani }}</ref> His younger brothers were [[Shakti Singh (16th century Indian noble)|Shakti Singh]], Vikram Singh and Jagmal Singh. Pratap also had two stepsisters: Chand Kanwar and Man Kanwar. His chief consort was [[Ajabde|Ajabde Bai Punwar]] of [[Bijolia]].<ref>{{Cite book|last=Bhatt|first=Rajendra Shankar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cHFuAAAAMAAJ|title=Maharana Pratap|date=2005|publisher=National Book Trust, India|isbn=978-81-237-4339-4|language=en}}</ref> Their eldest son was [[Amar Singh I]].<ref>{{Cite book|last=Sharma|first=Sri Ram|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3twgPwAACAAJ|title=Maharana Pratap: A Biography|date=2002|publisher=Hope India Publ.|isbn=978-81-7871-005-1|language=en}}</ref> He belonged to the royal family of [[Mewar]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Maharana Pratap & his times|first1=Gopi Nath|last1=Sharma|first2=M. N.|last2=Mathur|publisher=Maharana Pratap Smarak Samiti|location=[[Udaipur State]]|page=29}}</ref> After the death of Udai Singh in 1572, Rani Dheer Bai Bhatiyani wanted her son [[Jagmal Singh|Jagmal]] to succeed him<ref>{{cite book|last=Lal|first=Muni|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zExuAAAAMAAJ|title=Akbar|publisher=Vikas Publishers|year=1980|isbn=978-0-70691-076-6|location=[[University of Michigan]]|page=135}}</ref> but senior courtiers preferred Pratap, [[primogeniture|as the eldest son]], to be their king. The desire of the nobles prevailed and Pratap ascended the throne as Maharana Pratap, the 54th ruler of [[Mewar]] in the line of the [[Sisodia dynasty|Sisodia Rajputs]].{{Sfnm|1a1=Augustus|1y=1890|1p=190|2a1=Rana|2y=2004|2p=17}} He was crowned in [[Gogunda]] on the auspicious day of [[Holi]]. Jagmal swore revenge and left for [[Ajmer]], to join the armies of Emperor [[Akbar]] who later gave him a portion of [[Sirohi state|Sirohi]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Majumdar |first=R. C. |author-link=R. C. Majumdar |chapter-url=https://archive.org/details/mughulempire00bhar/page/335/mode/1up?view=theater |title=History and Culture of the Indian People |publisher=Bharatiya Vidhya Bhavan |year=1974 |volume=7 |publication-place=Bombay |page=335 |chapter=Hindu Resistance to Muslim Domination |quote=Uday Singh left twenty wives and twenty-five sons, of whom the eldest was Pratap Singh. Before his death, however, he nominated his ninth son Jagmal as his successor. Jagmal actually ascended the throne while Pratap and the other nobles went to perform the funeral rites of the deceased monarch. On their return, however, the nobles forced Jagmal to abdicate and offered the throne to the rightful successor, Pratap Singh, and he accepted it. Jagmal went to Ajmer, joined Akbar, and received a portion of Sirohi, but later died fighting with its rightful chieftain.}}</ref>


== Military career ==
== Ancestry ==
{{ahnentafel|1. '''Pratap Singh I'''|2. [[Udai Singh II]]|3. [[Jaiwanta Bai]]|4. [[Rana Sanga]]|5. [[Rani Karnavati|Karnavati Hada]]|6. Akheraj Chauhan|7. Jharna Bai|9. [[Rana Raimal]]|10. Ratan Jhali|11. Rao Nirbudh|12. Rani Bundi Sa|collapsed=yes|align=center|boxstyle_1=background-color: #fcc;|boxstyle_2=background-color: #fb9;|boxstyle_3=background-color: #ffc;|boxstyle_4=background-color: #bfc;}}
 
== Initial conflict with the Mughals ==


=== Background ===
=== Background ===
In stark contrast to other Rajput rulers who accommodated and formed alliances with the various Muslim dynasties in the subcontinent, the state of Mewar, led by Pratap Singh, gained distinction for its refusal to form any political alliance with the Mughal Empire and its resistance to Muslim domination. The conflicts between Pratap Singh and Akbar led to the Battle of Haldighati.<ref>{{Cite book |last=DeNapoli |first=Antoinette Elizabeth |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=43GVAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA49 |title=Real Sadhus Sing to God: Gender, Asceticism, and Vernacular Religion in Rajasthan |date=1 April 2014 |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-994002-8 |pages=49 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Talbot |first=Cynthia |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=m3DjCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA157 |title=The Last Hindu Emperor: Prithviraj Cauhan and the Indian Past, 1200–2000 |date=2016 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-1-107-11856-0 |pages=157 |language=en}}</ref>
[[Akbar]] initially favored diplomacy over direct conflict in his dealings with Maharana Pratap. Although Jagmal, Pratap's rival, sought Akbar’s support and had been named successor by his father, the emperor refrained from military intervention—largely due to ongoing unrest in [[Gujarat]]. Instead, Akbar dispatched several emissaries to negotiate with Pratap, including Jalal Khan, [[Man Singh I|Man Singh]], Raja Bhagwant das, and [[Todar Mal]]. However, all these attempts ended in failure. Pratap consistently resisted submission, either by making ambiguous promises or by declining to meet the envoys altogether. Rajput sources claim that Pratap even insulted [[Man Singh]] by avoiding a feast held in his honor, an account many modern historians consider exaggerated. The breakdown of negotiations likely stemmed from Akbar’s demands—such as personal attendance at the Mughal court, payment of tribute, political allegiance, or a matrimonial alliance—all of which were unacceptable to Pratap. By late 1573 A.D., it had become evident that a peaceful resolution was unlikely, and a military confrontation appeared inevitable.<ref>{{cite book |author=Ram Vallabh Somani |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NcIBAAAAMAAJ |title=History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. |publisher=Mateshwari |pages=221–224 |year=1976 |oclc=2929852 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |first=Gopinath |last=Sharma |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jIs9AAAAMAAJ |title=Mewar & the Mughal Emperors (1526–1707 A.D.)|pages=88–91 |date=1954 |publisher=S.L. Agarwala |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=DeNapoli |first=Antoinette Elizabeth |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=43GVAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA49 |title=Real Sadhus Sing to God: Gender, Asceticism, and Vernacular Religion in Rajasthan |date=1 April 2014 |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-994002-8 |pages=49 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Talbot |first=Cynthia |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=m3DjCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA157 |title=The Last Hindu Emperor: Prithviraj Cauhan and the Indian Past, 1200–2000 |date=2016 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-1-107-11856-0 |pages=157 |language=en}}</ref>
 
Some scholars suggest that a key but often overlooked point of contention between Akbar and Maharana Pratap was an elephant named Ram Prasad. Historical sources such as [[ʽAbd al-Qadir Badayuni]] and [[Abul Fazl]] mention that Akbar had repeatedly requested this elephant from the Rana, but Pratap refused to surrender it. The elephant was eventually captured by the Mughal army during the Battle of Haldighati and brought to Akbar. Badauni even describes Ram Prasad as a subject of dispute. This incident has been interpreted by some historians as further evidence of Pratap’s unwillingness to submit to Mughal authority, casting doubt on claims that he ever sent his son Amar Singh or any proposal to Akbar’s court, as suggested by Abu'l-Fazl.<ref>{{cite book| last=Maujumdar|first=RC|title=History and Culture of the Indian People, Volume 07, The Mughul Empire| year=1970| isbn=9788172765699| pages=382–383|publisher=Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan }}</ref>
 
The conflicts between Pratap Singh and Akbar led to the Battle of [[Haldighati]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=DeNapoli |first=Antoinette Elizabeth |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=43GVAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA49 |title=Real Sadhus Sing to God: Gender, Asceticism, and Vernacular Religion in Rajasthan |date=1 April 2014 |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-994002-8 |pages=49 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Talbot |first=Cynthia |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=m3DjCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA157 |title=The Last Hindu Emperor: Prithviraj Cauhan and the Indian Past, 1200–2000 |date=2016 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |isbn=978-1-107-11856-0 |pages=157 |language=en}}</ref>
 
According to Indian Journal of Secularism, in his campaign to extend his empire, [[Akbar]] presented Rana Pratap with the rank of Panj Hazari (commander of an army of 5,000). Rana Pratap refused, demanding instead the rank of Dah Hazari (commander of an army of 10,000).leading to battle of haldighati.<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cAVuAAAAMAAJ |title=Indian Journal of Secularism: IJS : a Journal of Centre for Study of Society & Secularism |date=2006 |publisher=The Centre |pages=118 |language=en |quote=In the process of expanding his empire, Akbar had offered Rana Pratap the status of panj hazari (' head of five thousand soldiers') but the latter refused to accept this, demanding the post of dah hazari or head of ten thousand soldiers.}}</ref>{{dubious|reason=This claim is not supported by mainstream historians and relies on a questionable source.|date=June 2025}}{{self-published inline|date=June 2025}}


===Battle of Haldighati===
===Battle of Haldighati===
{{Main|Battle of Haldighati}}
{{Main|Battle of Haldighati}}
The bloody [[Siege of Chittorgarh (1567–1568)|Siege of Chittorgarh in 1567-1568]] had led to the loss of the fertile eastern belt of Mewar to the [[Mughal Empire|Mughals]]. However, the rest of the wooded and hilly kingdom in the [[Aravalli Range|Aravalli]] range was still under the control of Maharana Pratap. Mughal Emperor [[Akbar]] was intent on securing a stable route to Gujarat through Mewar; when Pratap Singh was crowned king (Maharana) in 1572, Akbar sent a number of envoys, including one by [[Raja Man Singh]] of [[Amer, India|Amer]], entreating him to become a vassal like many other rulers in [[Rajputana]]. When Pratap refused to personally submit to Akbar, war became inevitable.{{sfn|Sarkar|1960|p=75}}{{sfn|Chandra|2005|pp=119–120}}
The [[Siege of Chittorgarh (1567–1568)|Siege of Chittorgarh in 1567-1568]] had led to the loss of the fertile eastern belt of Mewar to the [[Mughal Empire|Mughals]]. However, the rest of the wooded and hilly kingdom in the [[Aravalli Range|Aravalli]] range was still under the control of Maharana Pratap. Mughal Emperor [[Akbar]] was intent on securing a stable route to Gujarat through Mewar; when Pratap Singh was crowned king (Maharana) in 1572, Akbar sent a number of envoys, including one by [[Raja Man Singh]] I of [[Amer, India|Amer]], entreating him to become a vassal like many other rulers in [[Rajputana]]. When Pratap refused to personally submit to Akbar and several attempts to diplomatically settle the issue failed, war became inevitable.{{sfn|Sarkar|1960|p=75}}{{sfn|Chandra|2005|pp=119–120}}


The [[Battle of Haldighati]] was fought on 18 June 1576 between Pratap Singh and Mughal forces led by [[Man Singh I]] of [[Amer, Rajasthan|Amer]]. The Mughals were victorious and inflicted significant casualties among the Mewaris but failed to capture Maharana Pratap.{{sfn|de la Garza|2016|p=56|ps=One year later the Rajputs attempted a similar all-out charge at Haldighati. The result was an even more decisive Mughal victory.}}{{sfn|Raghavan|2018|p=67|ps=Although most of the other Rajput rulers soon entered the Mughal alliance system, the kingdom of Mewar continued its resistance. Udai Singh was followed by his son, Pratap Singh, whose continued opposition to Mughal expansion – despite military defeats, most notably in the battle of Haldighati in 1576...}}<ref name="sarsa">{{cite book|url=http://m.friendfeed-media.com/6e9ec7f58014456d2d5fd015cc8af9d2974509c0|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=428|author=Jacques, Tony|year=2006|publisher=Greenwood Press|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5|access-date=23 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626120848/http://m.friendfeed-media.com/6e9ec7f58014456d2d5fd015cc8af9d2974509c0|archive-date=26 June 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> The site of the battle was a narrow mountain pass at [[Haldighati]] near [[Gogunda]], modern day Rajsamand in [[Rajasthan]]. Pratap Singh fielded a force of around 3000 cavalry and 400 Bhil archers. The Mughals were led by Man Singh of Amer, who commanded an army numbering around 10,000 men. After a fierce battle lasting more than three hours, Pratap found himself wounded and the day lost. He managed to retreat to the hills and lived to fight another day.{{sfn|Sarkar|1960|p=77–79}}
The forces of Pratap Singh and Mughal and Rajput general Man Singh met on 18 June 1576 beyond a narrow mountain pass at [[Haldighati]] near [[Gogunda]], modern day [[Rajsamand]] in [[Rajasthan]]. This came to be known as the [[battle of Haldighati]]. Pratap Singh fielded a force of around 3000 cavalry and 400 Bhil archers. Man Singh commanded an army numbering around 10,000 men.{{sfn|de la Garza|2016|p=56|ps=One year later the Rajputs attempted a similar all-out charge at Haldighati. The result was an even more decisive Mughal victory.}}{{sfn|Raghavan|2018|p=67|ps=Although most of the other Rajput rulers soon entered the Mughal alliance system, the kingdom of Mewar continued its resistance. Udai Singh was followed by his son, Pratap Singh, whose continued opposition to Mughal expansion – despite military defeats, most notably in the battle of Haldighati in 1576...}}<ref name="sarsa" />  After a fierce battle lasting more than three hours, Pratap found himself wounded and the day lost. He managed to retreat to the hills and lived to fight another day.{{sfn|Sarkar|1960|p=77–79}} The Mughals were victorious and inflicted significant casualties among the forces of Mewar but failed to capture Maharana Pratap.{{sfn|de la Garza|2016|p=56|ps=One year later the Rajputs attempted a similar all-out charge at Haldighati. The result was an even more decisive Mughal victory.}}{{sfn|Raghavan|2018|p=67|ps=Although most of the other Rajput rulers soon entered the Mughal alliance system, the kingdom of Mewar continued its resistance. Udai Singh was followed by his son, Pratap Singh, whose continued opposition to Mughal expansion – despite military defeats, most notably in the battle of Haldighati in 1576...}}<ref name="sarsa">{{cite book|url=http://m.friendfeed-media.com/6e9ec7f58014456d2d5fd015cc8af9d2974509c0|title=Dictionary of Battles and Sieges|page=428|author=Jacques, Tony|year=2006|publisher=Greenwood Press|isbn=978-0-313-33536-5|access-date=23 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150626120848/http://m.friendfeed-media.com/6e9ec7f58014456d2d5fd015cc8af9d2974509c0|archive-date=26 June 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref>


Haldighati was a futile victory for the Mughals, as they were unable to kill or capture Pratap, or any of his close family members in [[Udaipur]].{{sfn|Chandra|2005|pp=121–122}} While the sources also claim that Pratap was able to make a successful escape, Mansingh managed to conquer Gogunda within a week after Haldighati then ended his campaign. Subsequently, [[Akbar]] himself led a sustained campaign against the Rana in September 1576, and soon, [[Gogunda]], [[Udaipur]], and [[Kumbhalmer|Kumbhalgarh]] were all under Mughal control.{{Sfn|Chandra|2005|pp=121–122}}
Rana Pratap was able to escape due to selfless devotion of chief of Jhala who drew upon himself the attack of armies by declaring himself to be Rana.<ref> An Advanced History of India by RC Majumdar </ref>


===Reconquest of Mewar===
Haldighati was a futile victory for the Mughals, as they were unable to kill or capture Pratap, or any of his close family members in [[Udaipur]].{{sfn|Chandra|2005|pp=121–122}} While the sources also claim that Pratap was able to make a successful escape, Man Singh managed to conquer Gogunda within a week after Haldighati then ended his campaign. Subsequently, [[Akbar]] himself led a sustained campaign against the Rana in September 1576, and soon, [[Gogunda]], [[Udaipur]], and [[Kumbhalmer|Kumbhalgarh]] were all under Mughal control.{{Sfn|Chandra|2005|pp=121–122}}
Mughal pressure on Mewar relaxed after 1579 following rebellions in [[Bengal]] and [[Bihar]] and [[Mirza Muhammad Hakim|Mirza Hakim's]] incursion into the [[Punjab, India|Punjab]]. After this, [[Akbar]] sent [[Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khanan]] to invade Mewar but he stopped at Ajmer. In 1582, Pratap Singh attacked and occupied the Mughal post at Dewair (or Dewar) in the Battle of Dewair.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Saraswat|first=Akshay|date=9 May 2020|title=Maharana Pratap – The Rajput Warrior who single-handedly fought Akbar's might|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/maharana-pratap-rajput-warrior-who-single-handedly-fought-akbars-might-819479|access-date=1 October 2021|website=www.ibtimes.co.in|language=en}}</ref> This led to the automatic liquidation of all 36 Mughal military outposts in Mewar. After this Akbar sent Jagannath Kachhwaha to invade Mewar in 1584. This time too Mewar army defeated Mughals and forced them to retreat. In 1585, Akbar moved to [[Lahore]] and remained there for the next twelve years watching the situation in the north-west. No major Mughal expedition was sent to Mewar during this period. Taking advantage of the situation, Pratap recovered most of Mewar (except its former capital), [[Chittorgarh]] and [[Mandalgarh]] regions by defeating Mughal forces there. During this period, he also built a new capital, [[Chavand, Rajasthan|Chavand]], near modern Dungarpur.{{sfn|Chandra|2005|p=122}}
 
=== Post-Haldighati Mughal invasions ===
[[Shahbaz Khan Kamboh]] led multiple invasions that resulted in the subjugation of key areas in [[Mewar]], such as [[Kumbhalgarh]], [[Mandalgarh]], [[Gogunda]], and Central [[Mewar]], bringing them permanently under [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] rule. The [[Mughal Empire]] established its supremacy in [[Mewar]] after Shahbaz Khan's invasions. This ultimately led to a significant weakening of Pratap's power, forcing him to seek shelter in his hilly abode.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Sharma |first=G. N. |url=http://archive.org/details/in.gov.ignca.10571 |title=Mewar and the mughal emperors |date=1954 |publisher=Shiva Lal Agarwala & Co |pages=113}}</ref>


==Patronage of art==
==Patronage of art==
Maharana Pratap's court at Chavand had given shelter to many poets, artists, writers and artisans. The Chavand school of art was developed during the reign of Rana Pratap.<ref name=MP>{{Cite book|first= Rima|last= Hooja|title= Maharana Pratap: The Invincible Warrior|publisher= Juggernaut|year= 2018|isbn=9789386228963|pages= 158|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=IPYmvwEACAAJ&q=battle+of+dewair|access-date= 10 October 2020}}</ref>
Maharana Pratap's court at Chavand provided refuge to numerous poets, artists, writers, and artisans. During his reign, the Chavand school of art emerged and developed as a distinctive artistic tradition. His support for cultural activities is evidenced by the presence of notable figures such as the artist Nasiruddin in his court.<ref name="MP">{{Cite book |last=Hooja |first=Rima |title=Maharana Pratap: The Invincible Warrior |publisher=Juggernaut |year=2018 |isbn=9789386228963 |page=158 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IPYmvwEACAAJ&q=battle+of+dewair |access-date=10 October 2020}}</ref>


==Revival of Mewar==
==Reconquest of Mewar==
Maharana Pratap took refuge in the Chappan area and started attacking the Mughal strongholds. By 1583 he had successfully captured western Mewar, which included Dewar, Amet, Madariya, Zawar and the fort of Kumbalgarh. He then made Chavand his capital and constructed a Chamunda mata temple there. The Maharana was able to live in peace for a short time and started establishing order in Mewar. From 1585 till his death, the Rana had recovered a large part of Mewar. The citizens who had migrated out of Mewar started returning during this time. There was good monsoon which helped to revive the agriculture of Mewar. The economy also started getting better and trade in the area started increasing. The Rana was able to capture the territories west of Chittor but could not fulfill his dream of capturing Chittor itself.<ref name=CP>{{Cite book|first=Rima|last=Hooja|title=A History of Rajasthan|publisher=Rupa & Company|year=2006|pages=473–474|isbn=9788129115010|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qqd1RAAACAAJ&q=rajasthan%20rima%20hooja}}</ref>
Mughal pressure on Mewar relaxed after 1579 following rebellions in [[Bengal]] and [[Bihar]] and [[Mirza Muhammad Hakim|Mirza Hakim's]] incursion into the [[Punjab, India|Punjab]]. After this Akbar sent Jagannath Kachhwaha to invade Mewar in 1584. This time too Mewar army defeated Mughals and forced them to retreat. In 1585, Akbar moved to [[Lahore]] and remained there for the next twelve years watching the situation in the north-west. No major Mughal expedition was sent to Mewar during this period.{{sfn|Chandra|2005|p=122}} Taking advantage of the situation, Pratap recovered some of the Mughal occupied areas of Mewar and captured thirty-six Mughal outposts. Udaipur, Mohi, Gogunda, Mandal and Pandwara were some of the important areas that were recaptured during this conflict. According to the 1588 inscription near [[Jahazpur]], the Rana gave the lands of Pander to a trusted follower called Sadulnath Trivedi. G.N. Sharma claims that the Pander inscription is proof that the Rana had occupied north-eastern Mewar and was granting lands to those who had been loyal to him.{{sfn|Chandra|2005|p=122}}<ref name=GN>{{Cite book|first=GN|last=Sharma|title=Mewar and the Mughal Emperors: 1526-1707 A. D.|publisher=Shiva Lal Agarwala|year=1962|pages=103|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7sQBAAAAMAAJ&q=thirtysix|quote=}}</ref> From 1585 till his death, the Rana had recovered a large part of Mewar. The citizens who had migrated out of Mewar started returning during this time. There was good monsoon which helped to revive the agriculture of Mewar. The economy also started getting better and trade in the area started increasing. The Rana was able to capture the territories around Chittor but could not fulfill his dream of capturing Chittor itself.<ref name=CP>{{Cite book|first=Rima|last=Hooja|title=A History of Rajasthan|publisher=Rupa & Company|year=2006|pages=473–474|isbn=9788129115010|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qqd1RAAACAAJ&q=rajasthan%20rima%20hooja}}</ref>


==Death==
==Death==
Reportedly, Pratap died of injuries sustained in a hunting accident,<ref>{{cite book|last=Sharma|first=Sri Ram|title=Maharana Pratap|year=2005|isbn=978-8-17871-003-7|page=91}}</ref> at Chavand{{sfn|Chandra|2005|p=122}} on 19 January 1597,<ref name=brittanica /> aged 56.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Gupta|first1=R.K.|last2=Bakshi|first2=S.R.|title=Studies In Indian History: Rajasthan Through The Ages The Heritage of Rajputs (Set Of 5 Vols.)|year=2008|isbn=978-8-17625-841-8|page=46}}</ref> He was succeeded by his eldest son, [[Amar Singh I]]. On his death bed, Pratap told his son never to submit to the [[Mughals]] and to win [[Chittor Fort|Chittor]] back.'''''{{Sfnm|1a1=Rana|1y=2004|1pp=77-79|2a1=Nahar|2y=2011|2pp=198–201}}'''''
Maharana Pratap reportedly died from injuries sustained in a hunting accident<ref>{{cite book |last=Sharma |first=Sri Ram |title=Maharana Pratap |year=2005 |isbn=978-8-17871-003-7 |page=91 |publisher=Hope India Publications}}</ref> at Chavand on 19 January 1597, at the age of 56.{{sfn|Chandra|2005|p=122}}<ref>{{cite book |last1=Gupta |first1=R.K. |last2=Bakshi |first2=S.R. |title=Studies In Indian History: Rajasthan Through The Ages – The Heritage of Rajputs (Set of 5 Vols.) |year=2008 |isbn=978-8-17625-841-8 |page=46|publisher=Sarup & Sons }}</ref> He was succeeded by his eldest son, [[Amar Singh I]]. On his deathbed, Pratap is said to have instructed his son never to submit to the [[Mughals]] and to make efforts to reclaim [[Chittor Fort|Chittor]].{{Sfnm|1a1=Rana|1y=2004|1pp=77–79|2a1=Nahar|2y=2011|2pp=198–201}}
 
According to some accounts, the Mughal emperor [[Akbar]] was deeply affected upon hearing the news of Maharana Pratap's death. The court poet [[Dursa Arha]] is said to have eulogised Pratap in the Mughal court as a mark of respect.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Not Available |url=http://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.539416 |title=Veer Vinod (Maharana Amar Singh Avval–Pancham Prakaran)}}</ref>


==Legacy==
==Legacy==
[[File:Statue of Maharana Pratap of Mewar, commemorating the Battle of Haldighati, City Palace, Udaipur.jpg|thumb|Statue of Maharana Pratap in [[City Palace, Udaipur]].]]
[[File:Statue of Maharana Pratap of Mewar, commemorating the Battle of Haldighati, City Palace, Udaipur.jpg|thumb|Statue of Maharana Pratap in [[City Palace, Udaipur]].]]
Maharana Pratap is a prominent figure in both folk and contemporary [[Rajasthani culture]] and is viewed as a celebrated warrior in [[Rajasthan|that state]], as well as in [[India]] as a whole.{{Sfn|Nahar|2011|p=1.2}}
Maharana Pratap is a prominent figure in both folk and contemporary [[Rajasthani culture]] and is viewed as a folk hero and celebrated warrior in [[Rajasthan|that state]], as well as in [[India]] as a whole.{{Sfn|Nahar|2011|p=1.2}}


Historian [[Satish Chandra (historian)|Satish Chandra]] notes –
Historian [[Satish Chandra (historian)|Satish Chandra]] notes –
{{Blockquote|
{{Blockquote|
''"Rana Pratap's defiance of the mighty Mughal empire, almost alone and unaided by the other Rajput states, constitute a glorious saga of Rajput valour and the spirit of self sacrifice for cherished principles. Rana Pratap's methods of guerrilla warfare was later elaborated further by [[Malik Ambar]], the Deccani general, and by Emperor Shivaji".<ref>{{cite web |last1=Chandra |first1=Satish |title=Medieval India |url=https://www.slideshare.net/princynavya/medieval-history-of-india-satish-chandra |publisher=National Council for Educational Training and Research |page=153 |date=1983}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Rajasthan Year Book 2021 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AEEgEAAAQBAJ&q=rana+pratap+sporadic+warfare&pg=PA1980|last1 = Meena|first1 = R. P.}}</ref>''}}
''"Rana Pratap's defiance of the mighty Mughal empire, almost alone and unaided by the other Rajput states, constitute a glorious saga of Rajput valour and the spirit of self sacrifice for cherished principles. Rana Pratap's methods of guerrilla warfare was later elaborated further by [[Malik Ambar]], the Deccani general, and by [[Shivaji]]".<ref>{{cite web |last1=Chandra |first1=Satish |title=Medieval India |url=https://www.slideshare.net/princynavya/medieval-history-of-india-satish-chandra |publisher=National Council for Educational Training and Research |page=153 |date=1983 |access-date=28 February 2021 |archive-date=11 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230411051800/https://www.slideshare.net/princynavya/medieval-history-of-india-satish-chandra |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Rajasthan Year Book 2021 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=AEEgEAAAQBAJ&q=rana+pratap+sporadic+warfare&pg=PA1980|last1 = Meena|first1 = R. P.}}</ref>''}}


Bandyopadhyay also seconds Satish Chandra's view with the observation that  
Bandyopadhyay also seconds Satish Chandra's view with the observation that  
{{Blockquote|
{{Blockquote|
Pratap's successful defiance of Mughals using guerrilla strategy also proved inspirational to figures ranging from Emperor Shivaji to anti-British revolutionaries in Bengal.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Bandyopadhyay |first1=Brishti |title=Maharana Pratap: Mewar's Rebel King |date=2007 |publisher=Rupa Co |location=New Delhi}}</ref>''}}
Pratap's successful defiance of Mughals using guerrilla strategy also proved inspirational to figures ranging from Shivaji to anti-British revolutionaries in Bengal.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Bandyopadhyay |first1=Brishti |title=Maharana Pratap: Mewar's Rebel King |date=2007 |publisher=Rupa Co |location=New Delhi}}</ref>}}


In 2007, a statue of Maharana Pratap was unveiled by former President [[Pratibha Patil]] in the [[Parliament of India]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Maharana Pratap's statue unveiled |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/maharana-pratap-s-statue-unveiled/story-MLuPzzVCikZmx0KbPc3ZbO.html |access-date=21 February 2021 |work=Hindustan Times |date=21 August 2007 |language=en}}</ref>
In 2007, a statue of Maharana Pratap was unveiled by former President [[Pratibha Patil]] in the [[Parliament of India]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Maharana Pratap's statue unveiled |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/maharana-pratap-s-statue-unveiled/story-MLuPzzVCikZmx0KbPc3ZbO.html |access-date=21 February 2021 |work=Hindustan Times |date=21 August 2007 |language=en}}</ref>
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==In popular culture==
==In popular culture==
===Film and television===
===Film and television===
* 1925: ''Rana Pratap''<ref>{{cite book|author1=Ashish Rajadhyaksha|author2=Paul Willemen|title=Encyclopaedia of Indian Cinema|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jOtkAAAAMAAJ|year=1994|publisher=[[British Film Institute]]|isbn=978-0-85170-455-5|page=138}}</ref>
* 1988–1989: ''[[Bharat Ek Khoj]]'', broadcast on [[Doordarshan]], where he was played by [[Puneet Issar]]
* 1929: ''Mewad Nu Moti''
* 1946: ''Maharana Pratap''
* 1958: ''Chetak Aur Rana Pratap'', about the bonding with his warhorse [[Chetak]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Screen World Publication's 75 Glorious Years of Indian Cinema: Complete Filmography of All Films (silent & Hindi) Produced Between 1913–1988|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=q7UEAQAAIAAJ|year=1988|publisher=Screen World Publication|page=65}}</ref>
* 1961:Jai Chitod
* 1988–1989: ''[[Bharat Ek Khoj]]'', broadcast on [[Doordarshan]], where he was played by [[Puneet Issar]].
* 1993: ''Chetak''<ref>{{cite web |title=Director's Biography: V G Samant |url=https://www.cfsindia.org/chetak/ |website=cfsindia.org |access-date=22 February 2021}}</ref>
* 1997–1998: ''Maharana Pratap''<ref>{{cite news |title=Big-budget serial 'Maharana Pratap – The Pride of India' ready to go on air |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/society-the-arts/story/19971201-big-budget-serial-maharana-pratap-pride-of-india-ready-to-go-on-air-830982-1997-12-01 |work=[[India Today]] |language=en |date=1 December 1997 |access-date=8 February 2021}}</ref>
* 2010: ''Chetak – The Wonder Horse''<ref>{{cite web |title=Chetak – The Wonder Horse |url=https://www.hotstar.com/in/movies/chetak-the-wonder-horse/1000216410 |website=[[Disney+ Hotstar]] |language=en}}</ref>
* 2012: ''[[Maharana Pratap: The First Freedom Fighter]]''
* 2012: ''[[Maharana Pratap: The First Freedom Fighter]]''
* 2013–2015: ''[[Jodha Akbar (TV serial)|Jodha Akbar]]'', broadcast on [[Zee TV]], where he was played by [[Anurag Sharma (actor)|Anurag Sharma]]
* 2013–2015: ''[[Jodha Akbar (TV serial)|Jodha Akbar]]'', broadcast on [[Zee TV]], where he was played by [[Anurag Sharma (actor)|Anurag Sharma]]
* 2013–2015: ''[[Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap]]'', broadcast by [[Sony Entertainment Television (India)]], where he was portrayed by [[Faisal Khan (actor)|Faisal Khan]] and [[Sharad Malhotra]]
* 2013–2015: ''[[Bharat Ka Veer Putra – Maharana Pratap]]'', broadcast by [[Sony Entertainment Television (India)]], where he was portrayed by [[Faisal Khan (actor)|Faisal Khan]] and [[Sharad Malhotra]]
* 2016: [[ABP News]] presented ''Bharatvarsha'', in which episode 8 showcased the story of Maharana Pratap.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Bharatvarsh: Episode 8: Watch inspirational story of Maharana Pratap, who stood against all odds| website=[[YouTube]] |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-HqwMEzOlw&list=PL4gSUwMBf0L2oEG95bcHi8dQUaJzE28d6&index=3|url-status=live}}</ref>
* 2016: [[ABP News]] presented ''[[Bharatvarsh (TV series)|Bharatvarsha]]'', in which episode 8 showcased the story of Maharana Pratap.
* 2023: [[Deepraj Rana]] as [[Maharana Pratap]] in Webseries [[Taj: Divided by Blood]] on Zee5
* 2023: [[Deepraj Rana]] as Maharana Pratap in Webseries [[Taj: Divided by Blood]] on Zee5


== See also ==
== See also ==
 
{{Portal|Monarchy|History|Hinduism
* [[Rajput resistance to Muslim conquests]]
}}
* [[Udaipur State]]
* [[Udaipur State]]
*[[Durgadas Rathore]]
*[[Durgadas Rathore]]
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==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}
41


==Sources==
==Sources==
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* [http://www.mewarindia.com Official Website for the Royal Family of Udaipur]
* [http://www.mewarindia.com Official Website for the Royal Family of Udaipur]
{{S-start}}
{{S-start}}
{{S-hou|[[Sisodia|Sisodia Rajput Clan]]||9 May 1540||19 January 1597}}
{{S-hou|[[List of Ranas of Mewar|Rana of Mewar]]||18 May 1540||19 January 1597}}
{{S-bef|before=[[Udai Singh II]]}}
{{S-bef|before=[[Udai Singh II]]}}
{{S-ttl|title=[[Sisodia|Sisodia Rajput Ruler]]
{{S-ttl|title=Rana of Mewar
|years=1572–1597}}
|years=1572–1597}}
{{S-aft|after=[[Amar Singh I]]}}
{{S-aft|after=[[Amar Singh I]]}}
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[[Category:1540 births|Singh, Pratap]]
[[Category:1540 births|Singh, Pratap]]
[[Category:1597 deaths|Singh, Pratap]]
[[Category:1597 deaths|Singh, Pratap]]
[[Category:Rajput rulers]]
[[Category:Rajasthani people]]
[[Category:History of Rajasthan]]
[[Category:16th-century Indian monarchs]]
[[Category:16th-century Indian monarchs]]
[[Category:Accidental deaths in India]]
 
[[Category:Hunting accident deaths]]
[[Category:Hunting accident deaths]]
[[Category:History of Udaipur]]
[[Category:Hindu monarchs]]
[[Category:Hindu monarchs]]
[[Category:Mewar dynasty]]
[[Category:Monarchs of Mewar]]
[[Category:Indian Hindus]]
[[Category:Indian Hindus]]

Latest revision as of 04:21, 26 November 2025


For other people named Pratap Singh, see Pratap Singh (disambiguation).

Maharana Pratap
Maharana
Mewari Rana
Portrait of Maharana Pratap by Raja Ravi Varma
13th Rana of Mewar
Reign28 February 1572 – 19 January 1597[1]
Coronation28 February 1572
PredecessorUdai Singh II
SuccessorAmar Singh I
MinistersBhamashah
Jhala Man Singh
Born18 May 1540 (1540-05-18)
Kumbhalgarh, Kingdom of Mewar[1][2]
(present day: Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajsamand District, Rajasthan, India)
Died19 January 1597(1597-01-19) (aged 56)[1]
Chavand, Kingdom of Mewar[1]
(Present day: Chavand, Udaipur District, Rajasthan, India)
ConsortAjabde
Spouse10[3][4]
  • Phool Bai Rathore
  • Solankhinpur Bai
  • Champa Bai Jhala
  • Jaso Bai Chauhan
  • Alamde Bai Chauhan
  • Asha Bai Khichar
  • Shahmati Bai Hada
  • Ratnawati Bai Parmar
  • Lakhi Bai Solanki
  • Amar Bai Rathore
Issue22 (including Amar Singh I and Bhagwan Das) and 5 daughters[3]
Names
Maharana Pratap Singh Sisodia
DynastySisodia
FatherUdai Singh II
MotherJaiwanta Bai Songara
ReligionHinduism
Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar II
(1326–1884)
Hammir Singh (1326–1364)
Kshetra Singh (1364–1382)
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Template:Double image Pratap Singh I (18 May 1540 – 19 January 1597), popularly known as Maharana Pratap (hi), was king of the Kingdom of Mewar, in north-western India in the present-day state of Rajasthan, from 1572 until his death in 1597. He is notable for leading the Rajput resistance against the expansionist policy of the Mughal Emperor Akbar including the battle of Haldighati.

Early life and accession[edit | edit source]

Maharana Pratap was born to Udai Singh II of Mewar and Jaiwanta Bai in 1540, the year in which Udai Singh ascended to the throne after defeating Vanvir Singh.[5][6][7] His younger brothers were Shakti Singh, Vikram Singh and Jagmal Singh. Pratap also had two stepsisters: Chand Kanwar and Man Kanwar. His chief consort was Ajabde Bai Punwar of Bijolia.[8] Their eldest son was Amar Singh I.[9] He belonged to the royal family of Mewar.[10] After the death of Udai Singh in 1572, Rani Dheer Bai Bhatiyani wanted her son Jagmal to succeed him[11] but senior courtiers preferred Pratap, as the eldest son, to be their king. The desire of the nobles prevailed and Pratap ascended the throne as Maharana Pratap, the 54th ruler of Mewar in the line of the Sisodia Rajputs.[12] He was crowned in Gogunda on the auspicious day of Holi. Jagmal swore revenge and left for Ajmer, to join the armies of Emperor Akbar who later gave him a portion of Sirohi.[13]

Ancestry[edit | edit source]

Ancestors of Maharana Pratap
9. Rana Raimal
4. Rana Sanga
10. Ratan Jhali
2. Udai Singh II
11. Rao Nirbudh
5. Karnavati Hada
12. Rani Bundi Sa
1. Pratap Singh I
6. Akheraj Chauhan
3. Jaiwanta Bai
7. Jharna Bai

Initial conflict with the Mughals[edit | edit source]

Background[edit | edit source]

Akbar initially favored diplomacy over direct conflict in his dealings with Maharana Pratap. Although Jagmal, Pratap's rival, sought Akbar’s support and had been named successor by his father, the emperor refrained from military intervention—largely due to ongoing unrest in Gujarat. Instead, Akbar dispatched several emissaries to negotiate with Pratap, including Jalal Khan, Man Singh, Raja Bhagwant das, and Todar Mal. However, all these attempts ended in failure. Pratap consistently resisted submission, either by making ambiguous promises or by declining to meet the envoys altogether. Rajput sources claim that Pratap even insulted Man Singh by avoiding a feast held in his honor, an account many modern historians consider exaggerated. The breakdown of negotiations likely stemmed from Akbar’s demands—such as personal attendance at the Mughal court, payment of tribute, political allegiance, or a matrimonial alliance—all of which were unacceptable to Pratap. By late 1573 A.D., it had become evident that a peaceful resolution was unlikely, and a military confrontation appeared inevitable.[14][15][16][17]

Some scholars suggest that a key but often overlooked point of contention between Akbar and Maharana Pratap was an elephant named Ram Prasad. Historical sources such as ʽAbd al-Qadir Badayuni and Abul Fazl mention that Akbar had repeatedly requested this elephant from the Rana, but Pratap refused to surrender it. The elephant was eventually captured by the Mughal army during the Battle of Haldighati and brought to Akbar. Badauni even describes Ram Prasad as a subject of dispute. This incident has been interpreted by some historians as further evidence of Pratap’s unwillingness to submit to Mughal authority, casting doubt on claims that he ever sent his son Amar Singh or any proposal to Akbar’s court, as suggested by Abu'l-Fazl.[18]

The conflicts between Pratap Singh and Akbar led to the Battle of Haldighati.[19][20]

According to Indian Journal of Secularism, in his campaign to extend his empire, Akbar presented Rana Pratap with the rank of Panj Hazari (commander of an army of 5,000). Rana Pratap refused, demanding instead the rank of Dah Hazari (commander of an army of 10,000).leading to battle of haldighati.[21][dubious – discuss][self-published source?]

Battle of Haldighati[edit | edit source]

Main article: Battle of Haldighati

The Siege of Chittorgarh in 1567-1568 had led to the loss of the fertile eastern belt of Mewar to the Mughals. However, the rest of the wooded and hilly kingdom in the Aravalli range was still under the control of Maharana Pratap. Mughal Emperor Akbar was intent on securing a stable route to Gujarat through Mewar; when Pratap Singh was crowned king (Maharana) in 1572, Akbar sent a number of envoys, including one by Raja Man Singh I of Amer, entreating him to become a vassal like many other rulers in Rajputana. When Pratap refused to personally submit to Akbar and several attempts to diplomatically settle the issue failed, war became inevitable.[22][23]

The forces of Pratap Singh and Mughal and Rajput general Man Singh met on 18 June 1576 beyond a narrow mountain pass at Haldighati near Gogunda, modern day Rajsamand in Rajasthan. This came to be known as the battle of Haldighati. Pratap Singh fielded a force of around 3000 cavalry and 400 Bhil archers. Man Singh commanded an army numbering around 10,000 men.[24][25][26] After a fierce battle lasting more than three hours, Pratap found himself wounded and the day lost. He managed to retreat to the hills and lived to fight another day.[27] The Mughals were victorious and inflicted significant casualties among the forces of Mewar but failed to capture Maharana Pratap.[24][25][26]

Rana Pratap was able to escape due to selfless devotion of chief of Jhala who drew upon himself the attack of armies by declaring himself to be Rana.[28]

Haldighati was a futile victory for the Mughals, as they were unable to kill or capture Pratap, or any of his close family members in Udaipur.[29] While the sources also claim that Pratap was able to make a successful escape, Man Singh managed to conquer Gogunda within a week after Haldighati then ended his campaign. Subsequently, Akbar himself led a sustained campaign against the Rana in September 1576, and soon, Gogunda, Udaipur, and Kumbhalgarh were all under Mughal control.[29]

Post-Haldighati Mughal invasions[edit | edit source]

Shahbaz Khan Kamboh led multiple invasions that resulted in the subjugation of key areas in Mewar, such as Kumbhalgarh, Mandalgarh, Gogunda, and Central Mewar, bringing them permanently under Mughal rule. The Mughal Empire established its supremacy in Mewar after Shahbaz Khan's invasions. This ultimately led to a significant weakening of Pratap's power, forcing him to seek shelter in his hilly abode.[30]

Patronage of art[edit | edit source]

Maharana Pratap's court at Chavand provided refuge to numerous poets, artists, writers, and artisans. During his reign, the Chavand school of art emerged and developed as a distinctive artistic tradition. His support for cultural activities is evidenced by the presence of notable figures such as the artist Nasiruddin in his court.[31]

Reconquest of Mewar[edit | edit source]

Mughal pressure on Mewar relaxed after 1579 following rebellions in Bengal and Bihar and Mirza Hakim's incursion into the Punjab. After this Akbar sent Jagannath Kachhwaha to invade Mewar in 1584. This time too Mewar army defeated Mughals and forced them to retreat. In 1585, Akbar moved to Lahore and remained there for the next twelve years watching the situation in the north-west. No major Mughal expedition was sent to Mewar during this period.[32] Taking advantage of the situation, Pratap recovered some of the Mughal occupied areas of Mewar and captured thirty-six Mughal outposts. Udaipur, Mohi, Gogunda, Mandal and Pandwara were some of the important areas that were recaptured during this conflict. According to the 1588 inscription near Jahazpur, the Rana gave the lands of Pander to a trusted follower called Sadulnath Trivedi. G.N. Sharma claims that the Pander inscription is proof that the Rana had occupied north-eastern Mewar and was granting lands to those who had been loyal to him.[32][33] From 1585 till his death, the Rana had recovered a large part of Mewar. The citizens who had migrated out of Mewar started returning during this time. There was good monsoon which helped to revive the agriculture of Mewar. The economy also started getting better and trade in the area started increasing. The Rana was able to capture the territories around Chittor but could not fulfill his dream of capturing Chittor itself.[34]

Death[edit | edit source]

Maharana Pratap reportedly died from injuries sustained in a hunting accident[35] at Chavand on 19 January 1597, at the age of 56.[32][36] He was succeeded by his eldest son, Amar Singh I. On his deathbed, Pratap is said to have instructed his son never to submit to the Mughals and to make efforts to reclaim Chittor.[37]

According to some accounts, the Mughal emperor Akbar was deeply affected upon hearing the news of Maharana Pratap's death. The court poet Dursa Arha is said to have eulogised Pratap in the Mughal court as a mark of respect.[38]

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Statue of Maharana Pratap in City Palace, Udaipur.

Maharana Pratap is a prominent figure in both folk and contemporary Rajasthani culture and is viewed as a folk hero and celebrated warrior in that state, as well as in India as a whole.[39]

Historian Satish Chandra notes –

"Rana Pratap's defiance of the mighty Mughal empire, almost alone and unaided by the other Rajput states, constitute a glorious saga of Rajput valour and the spirit of self sacrifice for cherished principles. Rana Pratap's methods of guerrilla warfare was later elaborated further by Malik Ambar, the Deccani general, and by Shivaji".[40][41]

Bandyopadhyay also seconds Satish Chandra's view with the observation that

Pratap's successful defiance of Mughals using guerrilla strategy also proved inspirational to figures ranging from Shivaji to anti-British revolutionaries in Bengal.[42]

In 2007, a statue of Maharana Pratap was unveiled by former President Pratibha Patil in the Parliament of India.[43]

In popular culture[edit | edit source]

Film and television[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 "Rana Pratap Singh – Indian ruler". Encyclopedia Britannica. Archived from the original on 16 June 2018. Retrieved 1 February 2018.
  2. ↑ Köpping, Klaus-Peter; Leistle, Bernhard; Rudolph, Michael, eds. (2006). Ritual and Identity: Performative Practices as Effective Transformations of Social Reality. LIT Verlag Münster. p. 286. ISBN 978-3-82588-042-2. Archived from the original on 12 April 2017. Retrieved 11 April 2017.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Maharana Pratap Jayanti: Know the Real-life Story of the brave Rajput warrior". News18. 6 June 2019. Retrieved 25 April 2021.
  4. ↑ Nahar 2011, p. 7.
  5. ↑ Rana 2004, pp. 28, 105.
  6. ↑ Sarkar, Jadunath (1994). A History of Jaipur. Orient Blackswan. p. 48. ISBN 978-8-12500-333-5.
  7. ↑ Daryanani, Mohan B. (1999). Who's who on Indian Stamps. Mohan B. Daryanani. p. 302. ISBN 978-8-49311-010-9.
  8. ↑ Bhatt, Rajendra Shankar (2005). Maharana Pratap. National Book Trust, India. ISBN 978-81-237-4339-4.
  9. ↑ Sharma, Sri Ram (2002). Maharana Pratap: A Biography. Hope India Publ. ISBN 978-81-7871-005-1.
  10. ↑ Sharma, Gopi Nath; Mathur, M. N. Maharana Pratap & his times. Udaipur State: Maharana Pratap Smarak Samiti. p. 29.
  11. ↑ Lal, Muni (1980). Akbar. University of Michigan: Vikas Publishers. p. 135. ISBN 978-0-70691-076-6.
  12. ↑ Augustus 1890, p. 190; Rana 2004, p. 17.
  13. ↑ Majumdar, R. C. (1974). "Hindu Resistance to Muslim Domination". History and Culture of the Indian People. Vol. 7. Bombay: Bharatiya Vidhya Bhavan. p. 335. Uday Singh left twenty wives and twenty-five sons, of whom the eldest was Pratap Singh. Before his death, however, he nominated his ninth son Jagmal as his successor. Jagmal actually ascended the throne while Pratap and the other nobles went to perform the funeral rites of the deceased monarch. On their return, however, the nobles forced Jagmal to abdicate and offered the throne to the rightful successor, Pratap Singh, and he accepted it. Jagmal went to Ajmer, joined Akbar, and received a portion of Sirohi, but later died fighting with its rightful chieftain.
  14. ↑ Ram Vallabh Somani (1976). History of Mewar, from Earliest Times to 1751 A.D. Mateshwari. pp. 221–224. OCLC 2929852.
  15. ↑ Sharma, Gopinath (1954). Mewar & the Mughal Emperors (1526–1707 A.D.). S.L. Agarwala. pp. 88–91.
  16. ↑ DeNapoli, Antoinette Elizabeth (1 April 2014). Real Sadhus Sing to God: Gender, Asceticism, and Vernacular Religion in Rajasthan. Oxford University Press. p. 49. ISBN 978-0-19-994002-8.
  17. ↑ Talbot, Cynthia (2016). The Last Hindu Emperor: Prithviraj Cauhan and the Indian Past, 1200–2000. Cambridge University Press. p. 157. ISBN 978-1-107-11856-0.
  18. ↑ Maujumdar, RC (1970). History and Culture of the Indian People, Volume 07, The Mughul Empire. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. pp. 382–383. ISBN 9788172765699.
  19. ↑ DeNapoli, Antoinette Elizabeth (1 April 2014). Real Sadhus Sing to God: Gender, Asceticism, and Vernacular Religion in Rajasthan. Oxford University Press. p. 49. ISBN 978-0-19-994002-8.
  20. ↑ Talbot, Cynthia (2016). The Last Hindu Emperor: Prithviraj Cauhan and the Indian Past, 1200–2000. Cambridge University Press. p. 157. ISBN 978-1-107-11856-0.
  21. ↑ Indian Journal of Secularism: IJS : a Journal of Centre for Study of Society & Secularism. The Centre. 2006. p. 118. In the process of expanding his empire, Akbar had offered Rana Pratap the status of panj hazari (' head of five thousand soldiers') but the latter refused to accept this, demanding the post of dah hazari or head of ten thousand soldiers.
  22. ↑ Sarkar 1960, p. 75.
  23. ↑ Chandra 2005, pp. 119–120.
  24. ↑ 24.0 24.1 de la Garza 2016, p. 56One year later the Rajputs attempted a similar all-out charge at Haldighati. The result was an even more decisive Mughal victory.
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 Raghavan 2018, p. 67Although most of the other Rajput rulers soon entered the Mughal alliance system, the kingdom of Mewar continued its resistance. Udai Singh was followed by his son, Pratap Singh, whose continued opposition to Mughal expansion – despite military defeats, most notably in the battle of Haldighati in 1576...
  26. ↑ 26.0 26.1 Jacques, Tony (2006). Dictionary of Battles and Sieges. Greenwood Press. p. 428. ISBN 978-0-313-33536-5. Archived from the original on 26 June 2015. Retrieved 23 July 2015.
  27. ↑ Sarkar 1960, p. 77–79.
  28. ↑ An Advanced History of India by RC Majumdar
  29. ↑ 29.0 29.1 Chandra 2005, pp. 121–122.
  30. ↑ Sharma, G. N. (1954). Mewar and the mughal emperors. Shiva Lal Agarwala & Co. p. 113.
  31. ↑ Hooja, Rima (2018). Maharana Pratap: The Invincible Warrior. Juggernaut. p. 158. ISBN 9789386228963. Retrieved 10 October 2020.
  32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 32.2 Chandra 2005, p. 122.
  33. ↑ Sharma, GN (1962). Mewar and the Mughal Emperors: 1526-1707 A. D. Shiva Lal Agarwala. p. 103.
  34. ↑ Hooja, Rima (2006). A History of Rajasthan. Rupa & Company. pp. 473–474. ISBN 9788129115010.
  35. ↑ Sharma, Sri Ram (2005). Maharana Pratap. Hope India Publications. p. 91. ISBN 978-8-17871-003-7.
  36. ↑ Gupta, R.K.; Bakshi, S.R. (2008). Studies In Indian History: Rajasthan Through The Ages – The Heritage of Rajputs (Set of 5 Vols.). Sarup & Sons. p. 46. ISBN 978-8-17625-841-8.
  37. ↑ Rana 2004, pp. 77–79; Nahar 2011, pp. 198–201.
  38. ↑ Not Available. Veer Vinod (Maharana Amar Singh Avval–Pancham Prakaran).
  39. ↑ Nahar 2011, p. 1.2.
  40. ↑ Chandra, Satish (1983). "Medieval India". National Council for Educational Training and Research. p. 153. Archived from the original on 11 April 2023. Retrieved 28 February 2021.
  41. ↑ Meena, R. P. "Rajasthan Year Book 2021".
  42. ↑ Bandyopadhyay, Brishti (2007). Maharana Pratap: Mewar's Rebel King. New Delhi: Rupa Co.
  43. ↑ "Maharana Pratap's statue unveiled". Hindustan Times. 21 August 2007. Retrieved 21 February 2021.

Sources[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Maharana Pratap
Born: 18 May 1540 Died: 19 January 1597
Preceded by
Udai Singh II 		Rana of Mewar
1572–1597 		Succeeded by
Amar Singh I
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