Exhibition Commemorating the 450th Anniversary of the Battle of Haldighati Opens at City Palace, Udaipur

Udaipur: Dedicated to preserving Mewar’s rich historical and cultural heritage, the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation has inaugurated a special exhibition titled “450 Years: The Battle of Haldighati” to mark the 450th anniversary of one of the most defining events in the history of Mewar and India. The exhibition was formally inaugurated by Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, the 77th Custodian of the House of Mewar, Chairman and Managing Trustee of the Foundation.

Dr. Mayank Gupta, Chief Executive Officer of the Foundation, informed that the exhibition will be open to the public at the Chhota Darikhana, City Palace Museum, Udaipur, from June 18 to August 28, 2026. The exhibition is dedicated to the immortal legacy of Maharana Pratap and the indomitable spirit of Mewar, whose unwavering commitment to honour, duty, self-respect, and freedom continues to inspire generations across the world.

Haldighati: A Symbol of History, Honour and Resistance

Fought in 1576 AD between Maharana Pratap of Mewar and the Mughal forces led by Kunwar Man Singh of Amer, the Battle of Haldighati remains an integral part of Rajasthan’s historical and cultural consciousness. For centuries, the battle has been remembered as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, self-respect, honour, and the struggle for independence. Its legacy has been preserved through folklore, literature, oral traditions, and artistic expressions.

Dr. Gupta explained that the exhibition traces a remarkable 450-year historical journey from 1576 to 2026 and presents a unique visual narrative through artistic interpretations that have evolved over more than two centuries.

Among the highlights are five rare paintings depicting the Battle of Haldighati, created in the early nineteenth century by the renowned Mewar court painter Chokha during the reign of Maharana Bhim Singh (1778–1828). The exhibition also features a monumental artwork created in 1935 by artist Chaturbhuj, along with a contemporary painting specially commissioned in 2026 by artist Rahul Mali.

Together, these artworks demonstrate how the memory of Haldighati has been preserved, reinterpreted, and recreated across generations. The exhibition also reflects the evolving tradition of artistic patronage in Mewar and highlights the enduring relevance of Maharana Pratap in contemporary cultural discourse.

An Outstanding Example of International Collaboration

The exhibition is also the result of significant international collaboration. Important artworks and archival materials have been made available through the generosity of prestigious institutions and collections, including the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland, the Parsons Family Collection (courtesy of Christie’s Images Ltd.), Guru Sharan and Elvira Sidhu from the United States, Rawat Veerbhadra Singh of Devgarh, Rajsamand, and the permanent collection of the City Palace Museum, Udaipur.

Commitment to Preserving Mewar’s Heritage

Organized under the patronage and guidance of Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, the exhibition reflects the continued commitment of the House of Mewar to preserving and promoting the region’s rich historical, cultural, and artistic heritage for future generations.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar said, “The story of Haldighati is not merely a chapter of history; it is a living source of inspiration that teaches us courage in adversity, steadfast belief in our purpose, and dedication to serving the nation.”

He further stated, “Maharana Pratap, Haldighati, and the living heritage of Mewar belong not only to Rajasthan or India but to the world. As the 77th custodian of the House of Mewar, it is my responsibility to preserve, protect, and share this invaluable legacy with India and the global community.”

He emphasized that young people, in particular, have much to learn and imbibe from these golden chapters of history. He also paid his eternal respects to Maharana Pratap and the countless brave warriors of Mewar who made extraordinary sacrifices to safeguard the honour, dignity, and pride of not only Mewar but the entire nation.