Maharana Pratap was the son of Maharana Udai Singh of the Sisodiya clan of Rajputs, the rulers of Mewar. Pratap became the ruler of Mewar against his father’s wish, who had appointed his favourite son Jagmal as his successor. However, the senior nobles of Mewar decided that Pratap, the first son and rightful successor should be crowned king.
After the famous battle of Haldighati, Maharana Pratap’s own brother, Shakti Singh, who had joined the Mughals helped him escape the battlefield, as his beloved and trusted horse Chetak was wounded in his hind leg and Jhala Man a noble was wearing the Maharana’s crown as decoy. Chetak, Maharana Pratap’s trusted horse, delivered him to safe grounds before breathing his last. Pratap had to take refuge in the Aravalli hills.
Moreover, Maharana Pratap was said to be a man of strong Rajput character, he was far more brave and chivalrous. His kind heartedness and just decision making won the hearts of even his enemies. He is the only ruler of India that did not give in to the Mughal rule, and for that he is the most celebrated ruler of the country to this day.
Maharana Pratap is known for his military resistance against the expansionism of the Mughal empire and his crucial role in the Battle of Haldighati and the Battle of Dewair. He had defeated Mughal emperor Akbar thrice – in 1577, 1578 and 1579.
Maharana Pratap’s principles never failed to flow down to his horse. Chetak, his favourite charger died in the battle, but not before saving his master’s life. The horse is known to have jumped over a mountain stream when pursued by two Mughal chiefs. Chetak died soon after he had seen his master to safety.
“Great salute to chetak. Chetak, the horse of Rana Pratap Singh saved Rana Pratap Singh life in the Haldighat war. It ran 5 km with one leg broken by the opponents and jumps 22 feet canal and leaves last breath”
The great warrior left for the heavenly abode on 29th January, 1597, at the age of 56.
