Maharana of Mewar Kingdom
Reign : ( 1652–1680 )
Died : 1680-10-22 ,
Spouse : Princess Charumati
Children : Jai Singh
Rana Raj Singh I, born on September 24, 1629, was the courageous and valiant Maharana of the Mewar Kingdom. He ascended the throne in 1652 and ruled until his passing on October 22, 1680. As the eldest son of Maharana Jagat Singh I and a princess from Marwar, Raj Singh I was destined to uphold the legacy of his forefathers and defend his realm against the looming Mughal Empire.
Raj Singh I’s reign was marked by his staunch resistance against the encroaching Mughal forces, making him a symbol of Rajput valor and defiance. His remarkable achievements include:
War Against the Mughals: Raj Singh I waged numerous successful campaigns against Mughal-controlled territories. He strategically annexed areas like Mandal, Banera, Shahpura, Sawar, Jahazpur, Phulia, and more, expanding the influence of Mewar. His audacious attacks on Mughal outposts demonstrated his military prowess and determination.
Defender of Rajput Pride: During the Mughal War of Succession, Raj Singh I rejected requests for assistance from various Mughal princes, including Aurangzeb. Instead, he embarked on his own military expeditions, showcasing his dedication to his own cause and his determination to safeguard his people’s interests.
Protest Against Mughal Policies: Raj Singh I vehemently protested against Aurangzeb’s policies, such as the imposition of the Jizya tax on non-Muslims. He stood as a stalwart defender of Hindu rights and religious freedom.
Supporting Durgadas Rathore: In the Rajput War (1679–1707), Raj Singh I provided aid to Durgadas Rathore, a prominent Rajput noble, in resisting Aurangzeb’s attempts to interfere in the succession of Marwar. This support played a significant role in the Rajput-Mughal conflict.
Cultural Patronage: Beyond his military exploits, Raj Singh I was a patron of arts, culture, and architecture. He protected the Shrinathji idol of Mathura from Mughal forces, relocating it to Nathdwara. He fostered a cultural renaissance within his realm, contributing to the enrichment of music, art, and architecture.
Rajsamand Lake: One of his most notable legacies is the construction of Rajsamand Lake in 1676 at Kankroli. The lake served as a water reservoir, benefiting farmers and mitigating the impact of famines in the region. The Raj Prashasti, a text commissioned by him, was inscribed on the pillars around the lake.
Maharana Raj Singh of Mewar was a prominent ruler who ascended to the throne in 1652. He is known for his valiant efforts to defend his kingdom against the Mughal Empire’s encroachments and safeguard the honor of his people and their ancient civilization.
Maharana Raj Singh strongly opposed the systematic destruction of Hinduism under Aurangzeb’s rule. He not only protected Hindu temples and idols but also protested against the imposition of Jaziya tax on Hindus. His efforts were instrumental in upholding Hinduism’s dignity and safeguarding the heritage of his people.
Rana was eventually poisoned by his own men who were bribed by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He was succeeded by his son Jai Singh.
While Aurangzeb plundered the city of Udaipur destroying temples & forts, eventually, Rana Raj Singh of Mewar and Durga Das Rathore were able to defeat the enemy.
Maharana Raj Singh assumed the title of ‘Vijay Katkatu’. Rana Raj Singh (1652-1680) adopted the policy of resistance from the Mughals under the rulers of Mewar. He defeated Aurangzeb in three wars.
Charumati was the princess of Roopangarh (Kishangarh). She was the daughter of Raja Rupsingh. Her marriage was fixed with Aurangzeb. Raja Raj Singh married her fearlessly against the will of Aurangzeb in 1660 to protect her religion according to her wish.
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