Eminent Personalities of Rajasthan have significantly shaped the cultural, social, and historical identity of the state. In Rajasthan History, this chapter will focus on legendary figures such as Panna Dhai, Veer Shiromani Durgadas Rathore, Swami Keshwanand, Major Shaitan Singh, Vijaydan Detha, Komal Kothari, Kaviraj Shyamal Das, Gaurishankar Heerachand Ojha, Pt. Jhabarmal Sharma, Kanhaiya Lal Sethia, Vijay Singh Pathik, etc. Their remarkable contributions in the fields of bravery, literature, history, reform, and patriotism continue to inspire generations.
Eminent personalities of Rajasthan
Panna Dhai :
- Early Life
- Born in Pandoli village near Chittor into a Hankla Gurjar family.
- Married to Surajmal, an army officer under Maharana Sanga (1509–1528 AD).
- Became the foster mother of Prince Uday Singh, son of Maharani Karnawati, after the birth of her own son, Chandan.
- The Event of Sacrifice
- 1535 AD: Banveer, a feudal lord of Mewar, assassinated Maharana Vikramaditya and sought to kill Prince Uday Singh to seize the throne.
- Upon learning of this conspiracy, Panna replaced Uday Singh with her son Chandan on the prince’s bed.
- Banveer unknowingly killed Chandan, believing him to be the prince.
- Meanwhile, Uday Singh was safely escorted to Kumbhalgarh, preserving the future of Mewar.
- Panna Dhai’s act of sacrificing her son to save the kingdom exemplifies unparalleled devotion, courage, and loyalty.
- She is remembered as a heroine of Mewar, inspiring generations with her selfless love for the land and its ruler.
Rupa Dhai :
- She was the nurse of Maharaja Jaswant Singh of Jodhpur.
- While extraditing Ajit Singh ji from the custody of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, Rupa Dhay hid him from the royal guards by making her son sleep in his place.
- A stepwell was built in Merti Darwaza on her name.
Gaura Dhai :
- Gaura Dhai, often compared to Panna Dhai of Mewar, played a crucial role in preserving Marwar’s legacy during the 17th century.
- Birth: Born on 4 June 1646 to Ratnoji Tak and Roopa in Jodhpur. Married to Manohar Gopi Malawat of Mandore.
- Heroic Act: After Maharaja Jaswant Singh’s death in 1678, she disguised herself as a sweeper to save Prince Ajit Singh from Aurangzeb’s custody by hiding him in a crate.
- Honored in Marwar’s national song “Dhusan.” A Chhatri and stepwell named after her stand in Jodhpur as a tribute.
Vijaydan Detha
- A celebrated Rajasthani writer and folklorist, Vijaydan Detha, also known as Bijji, is revered for his contributions to regional literature and folklore.
- Early Life:
- Born on September 1, 1926, in Borunda, Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
- Contributions
- Co-founded Rupayan Sansthan, Borunda, a research institute for Rajasthani folklore.
- His story Duvidha was adapted into a film by Mani Kaul, later remade by Amol Palekar as Paheli.
- Notable Works
- Baatan Ri Phulwari (Collection of Folk Tales, 1960-1975)
- Baapu Ke Teen Hatyare (Criticism, 1948)
- Chaudhrayan Ki Chaturai (Short Story Collection, 1996)
- Duvidha
- Alekhu Hitler
- Awards and Recognitions
- Kendriya Sahitya Academy Award (1975)
- Bhartiya Bhasha Parishad Award (1992)
- Bihari Puraskar (2002)
- Sahitya Chudamani Award (2006)
- Padma Shri (2007)
- Rajasthan Ratna (2012)
Komal Kothari :
- Komal Kothari, a cultural historian, dedicated his life to promoting Rajasthan’s folk traditions.
- Early Life: Born on March 4, 1929, in Kapasan, Chittorgarh district.
- Key Contribution: Founded Rupayan Sansthan in 1960 at Borunda, Jodhpur, for the preservation and promotion of folk art, music, and traditions.
Nihal Chand :
- Nihal Chand, a legendary artist of the 18th century, elevated Kishangarh painting to unmatched heights. His works seamlessly blend romance and spirituality, making him an icon of Indian miniature art.
- Contributions
- Served in the court of Raja Sawant Singh of Kishangarh.
- Immortalized Bani-Thani, his muse, as Radha, earning her portrait the title of the Indian ‘Mona Lisa’.
- His paintings depicted divine love and poetic elegance, blending Mughal and Rajput styles.
Gavari Bai :
- Gavari Bai, a poet and Krishna devotee, is revered for her spiritual contributions in Dungarpur.
- Birth: Born in a Brahmin family in Nagar, Dungarpur district.
- Devotion: Dedicated her life to Lord Krishna, earning her the title “Meera of Wagad.”
- Maharawal Shiv Singh constructed the Balmukund Mandir in 1829 in her honor.
Veer Shiromani Durgadas Rathore :
- Early Life: Born on 13 August 1638 in Salwa village, Marwar, to Askaran, a minister in Maharaja Jaswant Singh’s court.
- After Maharaja Jaswant Singh’s death, he safeguarded the royal queens and Prince Ajit Singh, the heir to Jodhpur, from Aurangzeb’s grasp. He fought Aurangzeb tirelessly, forming the Rathore-Sisodia alliance.
- Notable Contributions: Supported Prince Akbar against Aurangzeb and protected Akbar’s children (Buland Akhtar and Safiyatunissa) by providing them Islamic education showed tolerance.
- Later, due to disagreements with Ajit Singh, he left Marwar and relocated to Mewar.
- He passed away on 22 November 1718 in Ujjain. Revered in Rajasthan, his valor is immortalized in the saying, “O mother! give birth to a son like Durgadas.”
Dursa Adha :
- Dursa Adha, a contemporary of Akbar, is remembered for glorifying the valor of Maharana Pratap and Rao Chandrasen through his writings.
- Notable Works:
- Viruddh Chhahattari (most acclaimed)
- Kirtaar Baavni
- Veeram Deo Solanki Ra Duha
Kaviraj Shyamal Das :
- Kaviraj Shyamal Das, a revered historian and poet, is celebrated for his contributions to the documentation of Mewar’s history.
- Early Life: Born in 1836 in Dhokaliya, Bhilwara.
- Contribution to History: At the request of Maharana Shambhu Singh, he documented the history of Mewar, compiled in the monumental work Veer Vinod.
- Honored with the title Kesar-e-Hind by the British Indian Government and Kaviraja by the Maharana of Mewar.
Gaurishankar Heerachand Ojha :
- Birth and Expertise: Born in 1863 in Rohida, Sirohi; proficient in ancient scripts and authored the famous work Lipimala.
- Contributions: Authored histories of various princely states of Rajasthan, enriching the region’s historical literature.
- Conferred with the titles Mahamahopadhyaya and Rai Bahadur by the British Government.
Saint Chatursingh :
- Folk Saint Chatur Singh, a member of the Mewar royal family, dedicated his life to spirituality, literature, and public service.
- Early Life: Born in 1879 in Karjali village of Mewar, he turned to religious pursuits after becoming a widower shortly after marriage.
- Contributions: Lived in Sukher village near Udaipur, practicing yoga and writing for common folk. Proficient in Sanskrit and Rajasthani, his works include Gangajali (commentary on Bhagwad Gita), Parmarth Vichaar, Yoga Sutra commentary, and Samaj Battisi.
- Philosophy: Advocated public awareness and moral values through his writings. He passed away in 1929, leaving behind a wealth of literature for future generations.
Birbal Singh:
- Birbal Singh, a prominent member of the Bikaner Praja Parishad, was a fearless leader who fought against feudal exploitation and championed civil rights.
- Birth: Born in RaisinghNagar, Bikaner district, he actively participated in the freedom struggle and civil rights movements.
- On July 1, 1946 the workers reached the conference venue to pay obeisance to the tricolour. In the meanwhile, they got the news of the arrest of workers and the atrocities inflicted on them by the police at the railway station. They started moving towards the station under the leadership of Birbal Singh. The government official in his nervousness ordered firing on the workers.
- Despite being injured in police firing, he held the tricolour high, declaring, “Let our flag always fly high.”
Balmukund Bissa :
- Balmukund Bissa, born in 1908 in Pilwa village, Didwana, participated in the freedom struggle.
- In the year 1940, Shri Balmukund Bissa organised the Jodhpur Movement, due to which he was jailed on June 09, 1942 under the Defence of India Act.
- He died on June 19, 1942, at Bindam Hospital, Jodhpur, due to a hunger strike against bad food in jail.
- He was a firm believer in the Gandhian principles of non-violence and secularism
Kanhaiya Lal Sethia :
- Kanhaiya Lal Sethia, a celebrated Rajasthani poet, is renowned for his immortal songs such as “Dharti Dhoran Ri” and “Paathal Aur Peethal.”
- Early Life: Born on September 11, 1919, in Sujangarh (Churu), Rajasthan, Sethia was influenced by Gandhiji’s ideology and became actively involved in the Khadi movement and Dalit upliftment.
- Literary Contributions: His poetry collection “Vanphool“ (1941) began his literary journey. His work “Agniveena“ (1942) on patriotism led to his accusation of treason. He was also deeply involved in the Quit India Movement.
- Sethia played a pivotal role in the integration of Rajasthan and fought for the inclusion of Abu in the state. He was instrumental in preserving Rajasthan’s cultural heritage and actively participated in cultural celebrations such as the Haldighati centenary and Chitrakoot Mela.
- Awards :
- Padma Shri (2004),
- Rajasthan Ratna (2012)
- He passed away in November 2008 in Kolkata.
Swami Keshwanand :
- Swami Keshwanand, an educationist and saint, dedicated his life to rural development and education in Rajasthan.
- Early Life: Born in 1883 in Magloona village, Sikar, to Choudhary Thakarsi.
- Freedom Movement: Inspired by Gandhian politics, he actively participated in the Indian freedom struggle (1921–1931) and faced imprisonment.
- Educational Contributions:
- Became the Director of a Jat school in Sangaria in 1932, transforming it into a college and founding Swami Keshwanand Gramotthan Vidyapith.
- Opened 300 schools (1944–1956) in desert villages of Bikaner, promoting education in remote areas.
- Established an arts, agriculture, and science college, along with a teacher training institute, museum, and mobile libraries.
Major Piru Singh :
- Born on May 20, 1918, in Rampura Beri, Jhunjhunu, Major Piru Singh was a soldier of extraordinary bravery who served in the 6th Battalion of the Rajput Rifles.
- Heroic Act (1948): Tasked to capture a heavily fortified enemy position at Tithwal, he single-handedly destroyed multiple enemy posts before succumbing to his injuries.
- Posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, he became the first recipient of this highest military honor from Rajasthan, etching his name in history for unparalleled valor.
Major Shaitan Singh :
- Major Shaitan Singh, renowned as ‘Banasur Ka Shaheed,’ was born on December 1, 1924, in Bansur village, Jodhpur. A symbol of extraordinary valor, he served the Indian Army with distinction.
- Battle of Rezang La (1962): Commanded the Charlie Company of 120 soldiers, successfully repelling two Chinese attacks during the Sino-Indian War. Despite severe injuries, he continued to fight until his last breath.
- Awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously for his unmatched courage and sacrifice, inspiring generations.
Pt. Jhabarmal Sharma :
- Renowned as the ‘patriarch of journalism,’ Pt. Jhabarmal Sharma was born in 1880 in Jasrapur. A student of Pt. Durgaprasad Mishra, he made significant contributions to Hindi journalism and literature.
- Notable Works: Edited Sikar ka Itihaas, Khetri ka Itihaas, Hindi Geeta Rahasya Saar, and Tilak Gatha.
- His writings reflected patriotism, spirituality, and historical insight, leaving a lasting imprint on Hindi journalism and education.
Acharya Nanesh Muni :
- Born as Govardhan (Nana) to Modilal and Singaarbai in Danta village, Mewar, Acharya Nanesh Muni was a spiritual leader known for spreading harmony and equality.
- Initiation: Received spiritual guidance from Ganeshlalji Maharaj in Kota and became Acharya in 1952.
- Teachings: Advocated Samta Darshan for a peaceful life, emphasizing equality and meditation for stress-free living.
- Contributions: Initiated 59 Saints and 310 Yatis under Jain Bhagwati tradition; authored Samta Darshan aur Vyavhar.
- Impact: Guided Malwa’s Balai community away from non-vegetarianism, promoting non-violence and truth.
Kripal Singh Shekhawat :
- Kripal Singh Shekhawat, renowned for his mastery in blue pottery, was born in 1922 in Mau village, Sikar district.
- Achievements: Gained global recognition for his portraiture and contributions to the art of blue pottery.
- Recognition: Honored with the Padma Shri in 1974 for his exceptional artistry.
L.P. Tessitori :
- Birth: L.P. Tassitori, an Italian scholar, came to India in 1914 and settled in Jodhpur, where he began his research on Charan literature.
- Pt. Ramkaran Asopa was his teacher.
- Research & Contributions: He traveled across Rajasthan, visiting places such as Jalore, Bikaner, Udaipur, Jaipur, Pali, Nagaur, and Sikar to collect rare manuscripts and inscriptions.
- Notable Works:
- Bardic and Historical Survey of Rajputana: A Descriptive Catalogue of the Bardic and Historical Manuscripts
- Brought Endangered texts into light – Veli Krishan Rukmani Ri Vachanika, Rao Jaitasi Ro Chand texts
- Death: Tassitori passed away in 1919 in Bikaner
Mrs. Ratna Shastri
- Birth – 1912, Kacharod Village
- Husband – Hiralal Shastri
- Nickname – The Embodiment of Affection
- Works and Contributions:
- Life Cottage Establishment: Established on May 12, 1929 in Nivai, Tonk
- Shantabai Education Cottage: Established in 1935
- Contribution to the Satyagraha: When the main workers of the Jaipur State Prajamandal were arrested during the Satyagraha, Mrs. Shastri took over the responsibility of the arrangements.
- Work at Vanasthali Vidyapeeth: She worked alongside her husband at Vanasthali Vidyapeeth, and in August 1942, allowed workers and students to participate freely in the movement.
- Support during Quit India Movement: In 1942, she assisted underground workers during the Quit India Movement.
- Awards and Honors:
- 1955 – Padma Shri
- 1975 – Padma Bhushan
- 1990 – Jamnalal Bajaj Award
- Note – The first and only woman from Rajasthan to receive both Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards.
Kesarisinh Barath :
- About:
- Born: November 21, 1872, Devpura Kheda village (Shahpura, Bhilwara)
- Father: Krishna Singh
- Title: Rajasthan Kesari
- Served as the superintendent in Kota from 1902 to 1907.
- First to raise the call for the independence struggle in Rajasthan.
- Was involved in revolutionary activities and worked with Mewar and Kota Princely States.
- Founder of Veer Bharat Sabha in Shahpura in 1910.
- Arrested in 1914 and sent to Hazaribagh Jail for 20 years. Released in 1920.
- Works:
- Chetawani Ra Chungatya (13 couplets in Dingle)
- Rajasinh Charitra
- Pratap Charitra
- Durgadas Charitra
- Roothi Rani
- Translation of Buddh Charit by Ashvagosa into Hindi.
- Biography of Kaviraja Shyamladas Dadhwadia.
- Political Contributions:
- Instrumental in promoting independence by forming the Veer Bharat Sabha(1910).
- Advocated for sending Indian rulers’ children to indigenous colleges.
- A key figure in revolutionary efforts, associated with the Kshatriya College proposal.
- Recognition:
- Considered a national-level revolutionary leader.
- Described by Rasbihari Bose as the only revolutionary who involved his entire family in the freedom struggle.
Zorawar Singh Barath :
- About:
- Born: 1883, Udaipur
- Younger brother of Kesarisinh Barath.
- Influenced by Rasbihari Bose and Sachindra Nath Sanyal.
- Participated in the Delhi Conspiracy Case (1912).
- Involved in the Neemaj Murder Case (1913).
- Fleed from the British authorities and took refuge in Seetamau.
- Died in 1939 at Aligarh, Madhya Pradesh.
- Political Contributions:
- Played a significant role in revolutionary activities along with Kesarisingh.
- Considered Rajasthan’s Chandra Shekhar Azad for his involvement in national independence struggles.
Pratap Singh Barath :
- About:
- Born: 1893, Udaipur
- Father: Kesarisingh Barath
- Trained by Master Amirchand and joined revolutionary groups of Sachindra Nath Sanyal and Rasbihari Bose.
- Involved in Delhi Conspiracy Case (1912) and Banaras Conspiracy Case (1917).
- Arrested in 1917, tortured in jail, and died on May 27, 1918, at the age of 22.
- Political Contributions:
- A martyr for the freedom struggle who played an essential role in the revolutionary movement.
- Last words: “Let my mother cry, so that hundreds of mothers do not have to cry.”
- Recognition:
- His sacrifice is remembered in the context of India’s fight for independence.
- His death was described by Charles Cleveland, the British intelligence officer, as the death of one of the strongest young men in India.
Gopal Singh Kharrwa
- About:
- Key figure in the all-India armed revolution planned by Ras bihari Bose and Sachindra Nath Sanyal.
- Entrusted with responsibility for Rajasthan’s revolutionary activities in 1915.
- Arrested but later escaped from jail, then re-arrested.
- Political Contributions:
- Involved in the 1915 armed revolution, playing a significant role in Rajasthan.
- Known for his escape from British custody and his continued fight against colonial rule.
Vijay Singh Pathik :
- About:
- Real Name: Bhupsingh
- Born in Bulandshahr (UP).
- Leader of the Bijolia Peasant Movement, known as the “father of peasant movements.”
- Became involved in revolutionary activities under Rasbihari Bose and Sachindra Nath Sanyal.
- Published Rajasthan Kesari (1920) and Navin Rajasthan (1921).
- Praised by Mahatma Gandhi for his work: “Others only talk, while Pathik works like a soldier.”
- Died on May 28, 1954, in Ajmer.
- Works:
- Ajaymeru (Novel)
- Pathik Pramod (Story Collection)
- Pralhad Vijay (Letters from Jail)
- What Are The Indian States (Famous Book by Vijay Singh)
- Political Contributions:
- Involved in the Bijolia Peasant Movement, which was a significant peasant struggle in Rajasthan.
- Promoted the idea of peasant resistance and rights within the broader national independence movement.
- Recognition:
- Remembered for his contributions to both the peasant movement and the national struggle for independence.
- A postal stamp was issued in his honor by the Government of India in 1991.
