Good morning everyone,
Today, we gather to honor a name that echoes with courage, resilience, and unmatched patriotism — Maharana Pratap. On the occasion of Maharana Pratap Jayanti, we remember a hero who stood as a symbol of Rajput pride and Indian valor.
Born on May 9, 1540, in Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan, Maharana Pratap was the 13th ruler of Mewar. He belonged to the proud Sisodia clan of Rajputs. Even as a child, Pratap showed signs of fearlessness and leadership. His life remains a story of resistance against the mighty Mughal Empire and an inspiration to every Indian.
Maharana Pratap’s commitment to his motherland was unshakable. Unlike many other rulers of the time who surrendered or allied with the Mughals, he chose the path of honor. His refusal to accept the dominance of Emperor Akbar was not out of pride but because of his deep-rooted sense of independence and dharma.
The most remembered chapter in Maharana Pratap’s life is the Battle of Haldighati, fought on June 18, 1576. Though it was a fierce and bloody battle, and Maharana Pratap had to retreat, it was not a defeat of spirit. Rather, it was the beginning of a long, determined resistance. His legendary horse, Chetak, who gave his life to save his master, became a symbol of loyalty and bravery.
Despite hardships, living in forests, and facing scarcity of resources, Maharana Pratap never gave up. He built a parallel administration in the Aravalli hills, kept the flame of freedom alive, and gradually regained much of his lost territory. He rejected wealth, luxury, and comfort for the sake of his kingdom and his people.
His patriotism was not just in words — it was reflected in every action he took. He ate food of wild berries, wore tree bark, and still held his head high. His life was full of challenges, but his determination made him immortal in Indian history.
Today, as we celebrate Maharana Pratap Jayanti, let us not just remember his victories. Let us honor his values — courage, dignity, self-respect, and sacrifice. These are not just qualities of a bygone era but lessons for us even today. In a world where convenience often overpowers conviction, Maharana Pratap reminds us to choose integrity over comfort.
Let this day be a tribute to not only his bravery but also to his unbreakable willpower. Let us tell our children about heroes like him. Let us keep his stories alive in schools, books, and films. Let us remember that patriotism is not seasonal. It must live in our hearts every day, just like it did in the heart of Maharana Pratap.
In our country’s struggle for freedom, names like Maharana Pratap were often remembered by freedom fighters as symbols of resistance. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi admired such warriors who chose truth and sacrifice over submission. His legacy reminds us that one man’s commitment can defy an empire.
Let us also recognize that Maharana Pratap’s life teaches us the true meaning of leadership. Leadership is not about power. It is about responsibility, courage in the face of fear, and putting the people before oneself. Even when betrayed by allies and deserted by fortune, he led with honor and humility.
As we leave today, let us take with us the fire of his bravery and the light of his morals. May our youth draw inspiration from his life and pledge to uphold the values that make this nation strong.
Maharana Pratap did not live for fame. He lived for his people. And it is our duty now to make sure that his name continues to shine in the heart of every Indian.
Jai Hind. Jai Mewar. Jai Maharana Pratap.