History of Udaipur

Surrounded by regal palaces of marble and sandstone, Udaipur borrows its name from its founder Maharana Udai Singh. It has a glorious past that reiterates the fascinating tale of unprecedented pride, gallantry, fortitude and glory of the Sisodia Dynasty. Maharana Udai Singh is the predecessor of this Rajput clan and he founded this city after Akbar overthrew him from Chittor. The Sisodia Dynasty claimed that they are Suryavanshi, descendents of the Hindu mythical lord, Ram.

According to a myth a sage advised the Raja to establish his palace around the Pichola Lake. He did build a small shrine callede the Dhuni Mata at that very place. Udai Singh further expanded his province from a pond and named his first palace Nochouki. This was built in 1559. With time the architectural splendor of the province grew. Palaces with 'jharokhas' are unique features of Rajasthani palaces. Most opulent palaces are to be found in this city.

Udaipur is one of the few cities, which remained untouched by the Mughals. The Rajputs' spirit of independence was a major impediment for the Mughals. As a result they could never bring Udaipur under their control. In this respect Maharana Pratap needs special mention. He fought violent combats with Akbar to recapture Chittor. At Haldighati a memorial of Chetak, Maharana Pratap's horse, was built. As the legend goes Chetak saved his injured master's life but in the process lost his own life.

Maharana literally means 'great warrior'. The royal heads of this dynasty were truly brave. Till date the Rajput tradition of valiance and hospitality can be seen in abundance in Udaipur. It was said that the Rajputs were true friends and would go to any length to defend their friends. The customs of the Rajputs possess the true essence of Indian culture. Udaipur is the only city in Rajasthan which can boast of lakes, gardens and elegant palaces.