Introduction of Rajasthan
Amazing legends of heroism and romance still resound from its equally amazing
architecture, that still stands to narrate its tale of a bygone era. The
magic of Rajasthan is unequalled in the world for its heritage, culture,
safaris, sand dunes and lush green forests with its wildlife. Rajasthan
is often expressed as huge open-air museum with relic so well preserved
for the travellers and the curious of the day.
It is action-packed with outdoors too; take a safari on horses, camels,
elephants or even jeeps with the Aravalis - India's oldest mountain range
in the backdrop, or caress your eyes on the sloppy sand dunes, or trail
a tiger or just watch birds on wetland. Or you can choose to pamper yourself
in the lavish heritage properties. Rajasthan has something for everyone,
just choose your activity.
The Rajputs rose to prominence in the 9th and 10th centuries, and were a
major force to reckon with medieval India. Passionately attached to their
land, family and honour, the Rajputs treated war as a sport, and followed
a strong chivalric code of conduct. Myths and legends of their valour, gallantry,
sacrifice and courage are legion.
There are many heroes among the Rajputs, such as Prithviraj Chauhan, who
fought successfully against the invader Muhammad Ghori in the battle of
Tarain (1191), although he died on the same battlefield in the following
year. Or the great Rana Pratap of Mewar, who defiantly withstood the might
of the Mughal, and continued to raid on them even after his defeat.
He died in 1597, and his son, Ambar Singh, took over the mantle of opposition
to Mughal rule. Rana Pratap was the lone exception, as most of the leading
Rajput clans finally married into Mughal royalty and nobility, and went
into direct State service of the Mughal Empire.
This was chiefly at the behest of the wise and farsighted Mughal emperor,
Akbar, who was able to consolidate and expand his empire because of his
close ties with the proud Rajputs, the men who made formidable enemies and
also steadfast and loyal friends.
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