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Indian Express
3 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
‘Maharana Pratap won battle of Haldighati against Akbar': Rajasthan Deputy CM Diya Kumari at Jaipur event
Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari has said that Mewar king Maharana Pratap won the 16th Century battle of Haldighati against the forces of Mughal emperor Akbar, adding that she was instrumental in the change of plaque in Haldighati to ensure that it 'reflects the truth.' Speaking at a programme in Jaipur organised by Veer Shiromani Maharana Pratap Sanstha to commemorate the 485th birth anniversary of Maharana Pratap on Thursday, Kumari said: 'The plaque at Haldighati stated that Maharana Pratap lost and Akbar won the battle. In 2021, since I was an MP from there (Rajsamand) – and it is an ASI monument – we tried (to get it changed), including in Delhi with the Minister (of State) for Culture Arjun Ram Meghwal as the department was under him. The words on the plaque were changed and if you go to Haldighati today, you will read that Maharana Pratap won the battle. I would like to say that that was the biggest achievement of my tenure (as an MP).' आज वीर शिरोमणि महाराणा प्रताप जी की 485वीं जयंती के उपलक्ष में वीर शिरोमणि महाराणा प्रताप संस्था, झोटवाड़ा द्वारा आयोजित कार्यक्रम में सम्मिलित होकर गौरव की अनुभूति हुई। महाराणा प्रताप का जीवन हम सभी के लिए स्वाभिमान, साहस और मातृभूमि के प्रति समर्पण का प्रतीक है। हल्दीघाटी के… — Diya Kumari (@KumariDiya) May 29, 2025 While the comments were made Thursday, they went viral Saturday. She said that since people may not be aware, she decided to share the truth with people from the stage. 'Kyunki log bahut ulti seedhi cheezein bolte hain, sacchai batane ka sabko samay aa chuka hai. Main kum bolti hun, lekin jab bolti hun tab bahut kuch bolti hun (Because people say a lot of wrong things, the time has come to tell the truth to everyone. I speak less, but when I speak, my words mean a lot),' she said. 'We need to think; the true and correct history of Rajasthan should reach people. Not the history written by Mughals. What did the Mughals do? Divide and rule, the same thing which the Britishers did,' she said, adding that the Mughals made Rajputs fight Rajputs, Hindus fight Hindus. She said that it was unfortunate that for a long time, the political parties too pushed the same history. The ASI had changed the said plaques in 2021. In July 2021, then ASI Jodhpur circle superintendent Bipin Chandra Negi had told The Indian Express that: 'The state government had put up these plaques in Chetak Samadhi, Badshahi Bagh, Rakta Talai and Haldighati in 1975 when Indira Gandhi had visited the area. At that time, these weren't centrally protected monuments. These sites were declared as monuments of national importance in 2003 but the plaques didn't have this information. Over time, they became worn out and also had controversies about date and some other information.' He had added that he received submissions from scholars and public representatives for the removal of the plaques. 'Following this, I took cognizance of the matter. The old plaques didn't even contain the name of ASI. The Culture Ministry had also raised the issue with our headquarters,' Negi had said. The plaque at Rakta Talai, which was removed, had said: 'The fight was so deadly that the whole field was strewn with dead bodies. However, circumstances forced the Rajputs to retreat and the struggle ended at mid-day of the 21st June 1576AD.' Kumari's comments came a day after Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade claimed that several inaccuracies have been recorded in Indian history due to the early influence of British historians, including the widely cited story of the marriage of Jodha Bai and Mughal emperor Akbar. Speaking at an event in Udaipur, the governor had said that this story is a lie, instead claiming that 'There was a king named Bharmal and he got the daughter of a maid married to Akbar.'
News18
25-05-2025
- Business
- News18
No Schengen? No Boundaries: Your Ultimate India And Beyond Getaway Guide
Last Updated: Here's a curated selection of exceptional properties that promise the perfect summer reset, each one offering distinctive experiences, immersive settings, and seamless hospitality. Just because Europe is momentarily off the cards doesn't mean your summer holiday should be. This season, sidestep visa appointments and long-haul fatigue in favour of spontaneous, sun-drenched escapes that do not require the Schengen visa. From the golden dunes of Rajasthan and the lush wilderness of Jim Corbett to the coastal tranquillity of Sri Lanka to the cosmopolitan energy of Dubai, these destinations deliver all the indulgence of a summer abroad, minus the red tape. We have thoughtfully curated a selection of exceptional properties that promise the perfect summer reset, each one offering distinctive experiences, immersive settings, and seamless hospitality. India Udaipur Marriott Hotel Udaipur has added another gem to its crown with the opening of the Udaipur Marriott Hotel—marking the city's first-ever Marriott property. Overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake and set against the Aravalli Hills, the hotel blends regal heritage with modern design. Inspired by Mewar architecture, the property features hand-painted Pichwai motifs, traditional jharokhas, and a stunning chandelier-crowned staircase. The hotel offers 226 rooms and suites with lake or hill views, plush bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. advetisement Dining includes Okra, an all-day venue with a live kitchen and alfresco seating; The Greatroom, perfect for coffee or business meetups; Udaipur Baking Co., serving artisanal pastries; and Opal Lounge, offering cocktails in a library-style setting. Guests can unwind at Quan Spa, enjoy rooftop yoga, and explore the lakeside. The hotel also features a fitness center, poolside leisure, and a Kids Club. With 65,000 sq. ft. of event space, including a pillarless ballroom and scenic outdoor venues, the hotel is poised to become a premier choice for weddings and celebrations in Udaipur. Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa The newly opened Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, nestled on the edge of India's oldest national park. Tucked away in the heart of Uttarakhand's Sal forests and along the banks of the serene Kosi River, the 99-key resort offers a soulful escape into nature without compromising on modern luxuries. Guests are invited to experience the wonders of the wild—be it through thrilling jungle safaris, guided nature walks, or cultural village tours that celebrate the rich heritage of Kumaon. Each room is a blend of refined elegance and thoughtful design, offering panoramic views of the Malani Hills and river landscape from private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows. The culinary offerings are deeply rooted in the land, with The Corbett Kitchen showcasing local Kumaoni flavours and international fare, while the al fresco Malani Grill provides forest-facing dining under the stars. Sal Bar, inspired by the surrounding woods, is both rustic and refined—perfect for evening conversations over craft cocktails and small plates. The property is designed to be as rejuvenating as it is adventurous. Guests can relax at the Quan Spa with treatments inspired by Ayurvedic principles or take part in wellness-focused experiences such as yoga sessions by the river and immersive cooking classes with local chefs. Families travelling with children can enjoy dedicated entertainment zones like The Jungle and the Kids Club, while fitness lovers can recharge at the fully equipped gym or enjoy downtime by the pool. For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, the resort offers 5068 square metres of event space, including Jim Corbett's largest pillarless ballroom and two sprawling lawns with stunning natural backdrops—ideal for weddings, pre-wedding functions, and offsite retreats. Crowne Plaza Kochi Crowne Plaza Kochi offers a touch of leisure with panoramic views of backwaters. The hotel offers 269 spacious business rooms and suites with excellent views of the backwaters and the city. A variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces that can accommodate up to 900 people, all within a tranquil waterfront setting, makes Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred international brand for business, leisure and events. The below mentioned aspects of the property set it apart from others: Advertisement Sohum Spa Sohum Spa is one of the largest hotel spas in Kerala, with a dedicated area of 25,000 sq. ft. The facilities include a beautiful reception with lobby, outdoor relaxation area with a tropical garden and water bodies, private relaxation lounge, consultation room, seven therapy suites of which three are dedicated to Ayurvedic therapies and treatments, three to western and oriental therapies and one is a couples suite with Jacuzzi. Skygrill A rooftop restaurant, Skygrill is known for its unparalleled ambiance and delicious barbecues and grills with an exhaustive menu of beverages. Holiday Inn Resort Goa Holiday Inn Resort located at Mobor Beach, Cavelossim, in South Goa, overlooks the Arabian Sea. This Mediterranean-inspired resort with its direct access to the beach is as enchanting as it is unique. The resort is ideally located for a relaxing and fun filled vacation in Goa. It offers spacious rooms with balconies that open up to majestic views of the Arabian Sea and landscaped gardens. Holiday Inn Resort Goa can be the perfect destination for a monsoon getaway with family if one is looking for the following: Fine Dine Restaurants advetisement Within the luxurious resort, indulge the finest nuances of Indian and international cuisines, including the 24-hour Zest Cafe and Kitchen, which specializes in Indian and Global cuisine. The Beach Grill is the perfect restaurant for those lazy beach sunsets. At The Fig and Olive, one can indulge in Mediterranean Classics, and sundowner lounge, with awe-inspiring views over-looking the pool and gorgeous landscaped gardens, over cocktails. Some romantic private dining options are available as well on demand. Indulge in a relaxing evening Guests can enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating experience by the pool, or de-stress, and soothe their city-frayed nerves with rejuvenating therapies at the Spa Villa. Created to escape the pressures and stress of the everyday world this tranquil spa setting is perfect to indulge guests' senses and achieve serenity with amenities ranging from massage, sauna, and steam bathing. One can choose from one of many ayurvedic treatments in a traditional environment aesthetically designed. Destination Monsoon Weddings advetisement The resort offers indoor and outdoor venues, including the Ballroom, which is one of the largest pillar-less banquet halls in Goa at 5,068 sq ft with 1,26,000 sq ft of lawns which can be sectioned off as required, absolutely ideal for romantic destination weddings. Six Senses Fort Barwara Nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, Six Senses Fort Barwara is a 14th-century fort thoughtfully restored into a luxurious sanctuary of wellness and heritage. Overlooking the sacred Chauth ka Barwara Mandir, the all-suite resort seamlessly blends regal Rajasthani architecture with contemporary design and the brand's deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and holistic living. From tranquil private courtyards and suites with sweeping views to the immersive spa housed within original palace walls, the property offers a serene escape into mindful luxury. This summer, the resort invites guests on a five-night wellness immersion curated to align with the cooling and restorative rhythms of the season. Designed to nurture the body, calm the mind, and awaken the senses, the journey includes a 45-minute Ayurvedic consultation, twice-per-stay Takradhara treatments, Abhyanga massages, a Rasayana detox body wrap, and a deeply rejuvenating facial. Daily rituals feature breathwork, yoga and meditation sessions, labyrinth walks, sound healing with crystal bowls, and the resort's signature Alchemy Bar experience. Guests enjoy daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner at The Cortile, with menus focused on nourishing, seasonal ingredients. A private Aarti at the ancient temple completes the experience, offering a moment of quiet spiritual connection in an extraordinary setting. Ideal for those seeking a complete reset, this retreat is a return to inner balance amidst timeless surroundings. InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road Nestled in Jaipur's verdant landscape, InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road is conveniently located near Jaipur International Airport, connected to Delhi Mumbai Expressway, facing Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre. With 218 spacious rooms and 51,000 sq. ft. of banqueting space, the hotel has a timeless beauty and provides magnificent views of the greenbelt. Rejuvenate in the spa, take a dip in the open-air pool or relish the authentic culinary scene in our speciality restaurants. voco Jim Corbett India welcomed its First voco with the opening of voco Jim Corbett, marking IHG Hotels & Resorts' sixth brand debut in the country. Located in the heart of Uttarakhand's Dhikuli region, the property spans 13.5 acres along the Kosi River and offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush forests and natural beauty. Voco Jim Corbett reflects the brand's signature hallmarks – 'come on in,' 'me time,' and 'voco life' – through relaxed settings that encourage connection and downtime. The resort features thoughtfully designed guest rooms with scenic views, an all-day dining restaurant, and an alfresco eatery overlooking the river. The Tattva spa in the resort presents a range of treatments and therapies that draw inspiration from ancient healing techniques and modern wellness practices. Apart from the Jungle Safari which Jim Corbett is known for, voco also offers mountain drive, taking you through the beautiful landscape of Jim Corbett, allowing you to soak in the nature. River rafting at Kosi River is another key offering at the resort, and it is truly one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy the speedy waters at Corbett. Another exciting way for you to enjoy the scenic views of Jim Corbett is through the hilltop dinner, where you get to indulge in food cooked by the locals of the city, allowing you to enjoy authentic local food. However, if a hilltop dinner does not excite you then you can end your day by indulging in a privately curated BBQ night featuring the freshest ingredients and a private chef at your service. Unwind and enjoy complimentary karaoke, combining delicious food, expertly crafted cocktails, with fun entertainment for a perfect night. Additionally, for those who appreciate the beauty of the night sky, stargazing is one of the resort's must-try experiences. Set in the serene surroundings of Jim Corbett, it offers a peaceful opportunity to observe the stars and constellations, making for a truly magical experience under the open sky. International Thailand InterContinental Phuket Resort Located along the pristine Kamala Beach, InterContinental Phuket Resort is a stunning retreat offering a seamless blend of Thai heritage and contemporary elegance. Set against a backdrop of jungle-covered hills and the Andaman Sea, the resort features luxurious beachfront villas, infinity pools, and the award-winning Sati Spa. The hotel's signature dining experience, Jaras, showcases authentic Thai flavors with a modern twist. Kimpton Kitalay Samui Located on the serene Choeng Mon Beach, Kimpton Kitalay Samui is a luxury oceanfront resort that captures the romantic allure of a traditional fishing village. The resort features 138 rooms, suites, and villas, each offering open-plan layouts with large terraces, many with direct access to swimming pools and sea views. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, five on-property restaurants, daily yoga and fitness classes, and a full-service spa. Sri Lanka Cinnamon Life: The Ultimate Summer Getaway in Colombo Located in the heart of Colombo, Cinnamon Life is South Asia's largest integrated resort and Sri Lanka's most ambitious hospitality and lifestyle venture. Often referred to as the 'City of Dreams," Cinnamon Life is more than a hotel—it is a destination in itself. Conceptualized by internationally acclaimed architect Cecil Balmond, the resort stands as a bold architectural marvel on the Colombo skyline and is home to 687 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites. Guests can indulge in a vibrant gastronomic journey across its 12 eclectic restaurants and bars, unwind at the expansive Kurundu Wellness Spa, or soak in sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake from its striking infinity pool. With over 160,000 square feet of event space, the resort also caters to destination weddings, large-scale corporate events, and intimate celebrations. Its central location makes it ideal for guests looking to explore Colombo's cultural hotspots, contemporary art, shopping, and nightlife—all while returning to a space that defines comfort and world-class hospitality. Tailor-made for the discerning Indian traveller, Cinnamon Life brings together opulence, culinary exploration, and authentic Sri Lankan warmth, making it the perfect choice for a stylish city break or long weekend escape just a short flight away. Malaysia Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City Situated just 27 km from Penang International Airport, Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City is the perfect stay for travelers looking for comfort with a touch of sophistication. Offering modern rooms, meeting spaces, and easy access to George Town, the hotel caters to both business and leisure guests. The rooftop dining experience with views of the skyline makes for an unforgettable evening. Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park Overlooking the picturesque Bukit Nanas and adjacent to the KL Forest Eco Park, the only remaining tropical rainforest in central Kuala Lumpur – Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park offers a unique urban oasis experience. The 180-room hotel seamlessly blends modern amenities with local cultural nuances, providing guests with stylish accommodations and easy access to the city's historic streets. Vietnam InterContinental Grand Ho Tram Overlooking the South China Sea, InterContinental Grand Ho Tram is an expansive retreat featuring elegantly designed suites, a casino, an 18-hole golf course designed by Greg Norman, and multiple dining options. The resort is a perfect fusion of upscale leisure and entertainment, ideal for those looking for a refined yet lively getaway. voco Ma Belle Danang Located just steps away from My Khe Beach, voco Ma Belle Danang offers modern, stylish accommodations with a playful twist. The rooftop infinity pool, spa, and ocean-view rooms make it a favorite among travelers looking for a vibrant yet easygoing beachside stay. Its location provides convenient access to Da Nang's bustling food scene and cultural landmarks. Dubai InterContinental Dubai Marina top videos View All Nestled in the heart of Dubai Marina with unparalleled views across the waterfront, InterContinental Dubai Marina hotel and residences place you minutes from the Jumeirah Beach and the Dubai Tram, which connects you to the city's entertainment precincts. InterContinental Dubai Marina welcomes you to experience a world-class stay with adaptable event spaces, a fitness centre, a luxurious spa, and a captivating pool — making the hotel an ultimate destination. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Air Travel Bali Travel cnn-news18 Domestic Travel eco-friendly travel foreign travel india travel Indian Travellers latest news lifestyle news18 Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: May 25, 2025, 19:41 IST News lifestyle » travel No Schengen? No Boundaries: Your Ultimate India And Beyond Getaway Guide
India.com
17-05-2025
- India.com
Udaipur: A City Where Every Wall Tells A Unique Story
Udaipur is located in Rajasthan, India, and is often called the City of Lakes and Venice of the East. Apart from the beautiful lakes and splendid palaces, the city has a rich past that deeply resonates with every wall, corner, and alleyway. More than just boasting of stunning buildings and palaces, Udaipur is a masterpiece of culture and artistry, waiting to tell its stories from centuries ago. When you begin walking on the cobbled streets of Udaipur, you will see walls painted with intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and faded frescoes. These elements are not mere decorations; they are the storytellers that carve out their own unique chapter of Udaipur's rich legacy. These walls date back to ages when letters and alphabets had not yet been invented and portray everyday life of exotic folk, royal battles, and even religion. These stunning walls are historical archives meant to be preserved for innumerable generations to come. Royal Legacy: Tales of Valor and Splendor Maharana Udai Singh II established Udaipur in 1559. The beauty of the city is linked to the Mewaar dynasty which explains a lot of Udaipur's charm. Udaipur's walls echo the glory and splendor of its courageous rulers who were rich in cultural patronage. While walking through the small streets bordering the City Palace complex, you will see intricate stone carvings of battles, hunts, and even courtly functions. These didactic motifs transform the ornamental character of the sculptures into something that marks the Mewar kings' exploded spirit and defiant passion, which enabled them to prevail conquering invasions and survival adversities. One very interesting point about these walls is their symbolic nature, such as lotus flowers, peacocks, and elephants. Each symbol is loaded with meaning: the lotus comes to symbolize beauty and prosperity, the peacock is the manifestation of grace and beauty and the elephant represents power and wisdom. These symbols put together tell the story of the culture that was cherished both by the royal family and the ordinary subjects. and Havelis: Where Art Forms and Culture Connect Historic stories have found a place in Udaipur's temples and havelis, which are traditional mansions. Jagdish Temple sits close to the City Palace and serves as a fascinating point of spirituality. The temple's stunning sculptures of deities, celestial beings, sculptures, and mythological creatures draw people in. These carvings tell tales from Hindu epics, like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, that enable devotees and tourists to twirl through some ancient stories. Incredible craftsmen from the new city are reflected in the havelis placed across the old city, which use natural pigments to paint detailed frescoes of people engaging in everyday activities, festive occasions, and worship. Many came from the Rajput period's royal classes and successful merchant families. Udaipur's glorious past can be seen through women grinding spices, farmers taking care of the crops, and musicians playing traditional instruments. Art: New Tales On Old Walls With the street art that has emerged over the years, Udaipur blends modern themes with its rich history. The city's walls are adorned with vivid narrations that not only touch upon local heros but also tackle social issues, celebrating the diversity of culture present. If one happens to walk around Fateh Sagar Road or Gangat Ghat, it is nearly impossible to ignore the colorful murals that speak volumes. In recent years, these tales have become a powerful medium for art and fiction, combining traditional esthetics with modern ideas. Murals such as women breaking loose from their societal norms and achieving empowerment redefine what the city is talking about. Or Rajasthani folk music with global ones fusing signify the changing identity of the youth of Udaipur. The transition of slow paced narratives to modernized identities illustrates how these walls act as a bridge between the city's present and its past giving life to aged structures. What makes a walk in Udaipur truly magical is the feeling of discovery around every corner. From an arch with a floral design that is slowly crumbling to an inscription on a door frame that has faded with time to a wall with graffiti, there is always something new to uncover. Oh, but wait, do not forget even the simplest things like, a painting that has cracks on it, or a carving that is covered in moss. That reminds us of how nature guides these stories over the years. For example, consider the famous Lake Pichola along with its surrounding ghats, or the steps that lead down to the water. The walls here have witnessed countless morning pujas and evening aarti rituals. They have also seen children play beside the lake, vendors hawking their snacks, and calm, reflecting travelers searching for peace. There is laughter, whispers and so much more that these walls have heard. Each stain and mark has its own story to tell. the context of the topic The historic walls of Udaipur are in danger of neglect and pollution as the city develops more modernly. To help restore and protect the walls, archaeologists or artists, along with the locals, have made various initiatives to preserve Udaipur's beautiful stories for the years to come. Undoubtedly, their hard work will aid in keeping these walls intact. Preserving such a place is made easier with the help of tourism as tourists who visit tend to view these walls as simply art pieces. Witnessing Udaipur's beauty aids the locals and the economy in various ways, including restoration projects and awareness. By viewing it this way, more and more people would begin to treat Udaipur with the care and respect it deserves. In Summary, Living Seamlessly with Nature Udaipur's innovative mix of architecture is where the walls come to life, a unique blend of modern art and sculpture, Indian tradition, and nature. The endless street filled with history waiting to be told will be captivating for both art lovers and history enthusiasts, including those who seek inspiration, Udaipur will forever leave a lasting impression. Thus, next time you are in this captivating city, slow down for a moment and look closer at its walls. You may discover a story that alters your perception of the world. Every wall in Udaipur tells a story of the past, showcases the present, and signifies the future.
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
State BJP takes out Tiranga Yatra
1 2 3 Patna: State BJP chief Dilip Kumar Jaiswal on Wednesday led the party's Tiranga Yatra here to uphold the valour and victory of the Indian defence forces in Operation Sindoor . He said what the Indian Army did was only a "trailer", and a "full-length film" would follow if Pakistan did not mend its ways. "It is not a political show, but a spontaneous demonstration of patriotism. We Biharis salute the central govt for taking the eventual decision and Indian Army for giving a lesson to Pakistan," Jailswal pursuance of the nationwide call to his party's state units, BJP national president J P Nadda had asked them to organise Tiranga Yatra between May 13 and 23. Accordingly, the Bihar BJP decided to first hold the Tiranga Yatra in the state capital on Wednesday, and thereafter, at the nine divisional headquarters on Thursday, in all its 54 organisational districts on Friday and 1,200 mandal units in a staggered manner on the subsequent days till May state BJP rank and file first gathered near the statue of Maharana Pratap near S P Verma road, from where the Tiranga Yatra was started after offering floral tributes to the legendary Mewar ruler. It concluded at Kargil War Memorial. The participants, carrying a 120-feet-long tricolor, sang glories of the Indian CMs Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, minister Nitin Navin and local MLAs Arun Kumar Sinha and Sanjeev Chaurasia, besides party functionary Amit Prakash, were among the prominent participants.
Indian Express
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Indian Express
Why Bihar players are vying to celebrate Rajput icons – Maharana Pratap to Veer Kunwar Singh
In the run-up to the Bihar Assembly elections slated for October-November this year, leading political parties – from the ruling JD(U) and BJP to the principal Opposition RJD – have stepped up their campaigns to celebrate Rajput icons in order to reach out to the key upper caste community in the state. Since April, all the three parties have commemorated the birth or death anniversaries of two major Rajput icons – the famed 16th century Mewar king Maharana Pratap who had put up a fierce resistance against Mughal emperor Akbar, and Jagdishpur ruler Veer Kunwar Singh who had led the 1857 rebellion against the British in Bihar's Bhojpur region. On April 23, both the BJP and the RJD had participated in various events in Patna to commemorate Kunwar Singh's death anniversary. While the BJP had organised a public meeting with Saran MP and former Union minister Rajiv Pratap Rudy as the chief guest, RJD leader and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Assembly Tejashwi Yadav was the chief guest at a function organised by the Saran Vikas Manch (SVM), an apolitical forum led by Saran-based leader Shailendra Pratap Singh. At a gathering that included Rajput MLAs such as the BJP's Shreyasi Singh and Independent legislator Sumit Kumar Singh, Rudy said, 'We (Rajputs) have long been used as ladders to success for others. We have to now ensure that we are not taken for granted by anyone. It is time to get united and show our strength.' Though Rudy did not single out any party for 'ignoring Rajputs', his speech obliquely hinted at the BJP-led NDA for not giving Rajputs their due. Though eight members of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Cabinet are from Bihar, none of the three Rajput BJP MPs from the state – Radha Mohan Singh and Janardan Singh Sigriwal, besides Rudy – were named Cabinet ministers after the NDA's win in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. Tejashwi, meanwhile, showed urgency in attending the SVM's event as he flew in to Patna from Kolkata and cancelled a scheduled press briefing. While responding to the outfit's demand for an 80-foot statue of Kunwar Singh, Tejashwi said: 'Give us one chance to form the government, we will have a much bigger statue of the 1857 rebellion hero. His horse alone would be 80-feet high… We repose a lot of faith in Rajputs. Support us and if I fail you, throw us out in the next polls.' During the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, the RJD leader had antagonised Rajput voters by saying at a Jehanabad rally that 'Babu (saheb) ko thanda kar denge'. In local parlance, Rajputs are often referred to as 'babu saheb'. This, combined with frequent criticism of RJD national president Lalu Prasad for polarising the communities along the 'backward versus forward' caste divide, had led to anger among Rajputs towards the RJD. However, Tejashwi had later clarified, saying, 'What I had meant was that I would set right corrupt babus (bureaucrats) if the RJD plays a part in the government at the Centre. I always have great respect for the valorous community of Rajputs.' He also pointed out that his party had prominent Rajput leaders such as the late Raghuvansh Prasad Singh and state party president Jagdanand Singh. Speaking to The Indian Express, SVM convener Shailendra Pratap Singh said: 'We are supporting Tejashwi Yadav in our bid to make him the Bihar Chief Minister after the 2025 Assembly polls. We have seen how the BJP and JD(U) have treated Rajput leaders as second-class citizens. The Union Cabinet has eight ministers from Bihar but none from the Rajput community. In past Assembly polls, there have been several instances of the NDA denying tickets to worthy Rajput candidates. We can no longer play sidekicks to these parties. We are looking up to the RJD that has been talking of inclusive politics with its 'A to Z' pitch.' The SVM has considerable influence in the districts of Saran, Bhojpur, Kaimur and Rohtas. JD(U) leader Sanjay Singh organised a function in Patna on Friday to again commemorate the birth anniversary of Maharana Pratap. 'It was at my request that Bihar CM Nitish Kumar installed a bronze statue of Maharana Pratap near S P Verma Road in Patna. For us, Maharana Pratap symbolises inclusivity as his army had people from all castes. It is sad that some people are confining great icons of history to caste and religion,' Singh said. Upper castes in Bihar, which include Rajputs, constitute about 10.5% of the state's population and have often tilted the balance since the dominance of Mandal politics in the state in the 1990s. Accounting for 3.45% of the state's population, Rajputs are the second-biggest upper caste group after Brahmins at 3.65%. The NDA has created a vote bank among Rajputs since the 1990s. By 2010, the NDA garnered more than 90% of the upper caste votes, with the RJD accused of being allegedly 'anti-upper castes'. Of the 243 Assembly seats in Bihar, about 90 seats have the Rajput population exceeding 40,000 and another 50 seats have over 30,000 Rajputs. Rajputs are spread across Bihar, with a fair concentration in Saran, Aurangabad, Bhojpur, Kaimur, Rohtas and Banka. Currently there are 29 Rajput MLAs in the Bihar Assembly – 19 from the BJP, six from RJD, two from JD(U), one from Congress and one Independent. The Nitish Kumar-led NDA government has four Rajput ministers – two from the BJP, one from JD(U), and an Independent. In the Lok Sabha, there are six Rajput MPs from Bihar – three from the BJP, and one each from the JD(U), LJP (Ram Vilas) and RJD. Bihar has seen several prominent Rajput leaders since Independence. Anugrah Narayan Sinha, a member of the Constituent Assembly and the first Deputy CM of Bihar, was one such leader. Sinha had played second fiddle to Shri Krishna Singh, the first CM of Bihar, in the state Congress. In the 1957 Assembly polls, Sinha had unsuccessfully challenged Shri Krishna, among the tallest state leaders from the Bhumihar community, for the CM's post. Since then, Rajput leaders have struggled to gain an upper hand in state politics. In 1969, the Congress's Rajput leader Harihar Singh was the CM for a brief four-month spell. From 1983 to 1985, another Rajput leader Chadrashekhar Singh was the Congress CM. The last Rajput CM of Bihar was Sinha's son Satyendra Narayan Sinha, also from the Congress, for nine months in 1989. Santosh Singh is a Senior Assistant Editor with The Indian Express since June 2008. He covers Bihar with main focus on politics, society and governance. Investigative and explanatory stories are also his forte. Singh has 25 years of experience in print journalism covering Bihar, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. ... Read More
