Maharana Pratap Punyatithi is observed every year on January 19th in India, marking the death anniversary of the legendary Rajput king, Maharana Pratap. He was a fierce warrior who dedicated his life to defending his kingdom, Mewar, from the mighty Mughal Empire.
- Born in 1540, Pratap was the eldest son of Rana Udai Singh II He received rigorous military training and was renowned for his skills in horsemanship, archery, and swordsmanship.
- In 1568, the Mughal emperor Akbar laid siege to Chittorgarh, the capital of Mewar. Despite Pratap’s valiant defense, the city fell after a grueling battle.
- Refusing to surrender, Pratap vowed to liberate Mewar from Mughal control and embarked on a guerrilla warfare campaign.
- He led his Rajput forces in numerous battles, including the iconic Battle of Haldighati in 1576. Though outnumbered, Pratap’s strategic brilliance and courage inflicted heavy losses on the Mughals.