Rajsamand
| Rajsamand is no ordinary lake. It is huge, 4 miles in length and 1.75 miles wide while its embankments are adorned with heavily decorated arches and chhatris. Each of the stone slabs has Sanskrit carvings telling the story of Mewar in 1017 stanzas. Rajsamand occupies an important place in medieval history. It is the place where Maharana Pratap was born and also the site of the historic battle between Maharana Pratap and Emperor Akbar. Today it is known as Asia’s biggest marble market and a major mining area for zinc, silver, manganese, etc. The city is also the administrative headquarters of Rajsamand District. A typical Rajasthani town, Rajsamand town too is blessed with numerous famous temples and marked by zesty festivals. The Gawri festival of the local Bhil community is a particular delight. Lasting for a month, these folks go from one village to another performing their dance and music mixed with few dialogues. Attractions Eklingji: This is the site of the temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. A highly revered god, considered as the patron deity by the Mewar rulers. Haldighati: A significant place where Rana Pratap Singh of Mewar battled against the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Today it has been converted into a memorial site. It is named after the yellow tint of the soil. About 2 kms away is Chetak Tomb, dedicated to Maharana Pratap’s horse. The loyal horse after losing a leg in the battle dutifully carried his master to safety before succumbing to his wound. Kumbhalgarh Fort: Apart from its massive fortification running 36 km, this edifice is worth your time for three reasons. It encloses about 360 temples and they are splendid. There is a wildlife sanctuary also plus the view from here is breathtaking running a great length into the Aravallis. It is also believed to be the birth place of Maharana Pratap. It was raised by Rana Kumbha in early 15th century. Nathdwara: An important pilgrimage site with a massive temple of Lord Shrinathji, a personification of Krishna. Ranakpur (Pali District): The majestic Jain temple is located here. A structure of beauty and excellence with all its 400 marble pillars supporting the temple carved in exquisite detail. Close by is the much revered Sun Temple. Other famous pilgrimage centres are the Shrinathji Temple at Nathdwara, as well as Dwarikadheesh, and Charbhuja, which gets particularly crowded during Bhadrapad Ekadashi festivals. |
