Udaipur

Maharana Udai Singh II decided to establish Udaipur as the new capital of the Mewar kingdom in 1559, and the city was founded officially in 1569. Nestled within the Aravalli Range, the location provided natural protection and an advantageous position away from the Mughal influence. Udaipur is often referred to as the 'City of Lakes' for its sophisticated lake system and as the 'Venice of the East' for its romantic charm.

The Battle of Haldighati was fought on June 18, 1576, between the forces of Maharana Pratap of Mewar and the Mughal army led by Man Singh I of Amber. The battle took place at the Haldighati pass in Rajasthan, near Udaipur. Although technically it was a stalemate, it was significant because Mewar, under Maharana Pratap, maintained its independence from Mughal rule, symbolizing Rajput resistance.

Lake Pichola is an artificial freshwater lake, created in 1362 AD, and it was further extended by Maharana Udai Singh II in the late 16th century. The lake, situated in Udaipur city in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is known for its picturesque beauty and the islands within it, including the famous Jag Niwas and Jag Mandir. It serves as an iconic tourist attraction, representing the heritage of Udaipur.

The Treaty of Udaipur was signed on January 13, 1818, between Maharana Bhim Singh and the British East India Company. This treaty established Udaipur as a princely state under the protectorship of the British, thereby preserving its autonomy while agreeing to British supremacy in foreign affairs. The treaty marked the beginning of the British paramountcy in the region, leading to significant political changes in Rajasthan.

Udaipur University, presently known as Mohanlal Sukhadia University, was established in 1962. As one of the leading educational institutions in Rajasthan, it played a crucial role in providing higher education to the region. The university has since expanded, offering diverse programs in science, humanities, and commerce, and continues to contribute significantly to the academic and cultural fabric of Udaipur and its surroundings.

The Udaipur Solar Observatory was established in 1981, situated on an island in Fatehsagar Lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The observatory, considered one of the best solar observing sites in Asia, was inaugurated to conduct extensive solar observations, aiding in the study of planetary atmospheres and contributing valuable data to global solar research. Aided by India's clear skies, the observatory is vital for continual solar research.

In 2002, Udaipur's Gangaur Ghat, an iconic landmark, underwent significant renovation and beautification efforts to restore its historical charm. The ghat, located on the banks of Lake Pichola, serves as a pivotal spot for traditional events, especially during the Gangaur festival. The renovation aimed to preserve the heritage and enhance the aesthetic beauty of the ghat, which remains a popular gathering and tourist spot.

The Rana Pratap Nagar railway station in Udaipur underwent a major upgrade in 2003, focusing on modernizing facilities and improving connectivity. Named after the renowned Rajput ruler Maharana Pratap, the station is crucial for linking Udaipur with major cities in India, thereby enhancing tourism and commerce. The upgrade included improved passenger amenities, better infrastructure, and streamlined services, bolstering Udaipur's place on the rail map.

During the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, an Army Major from Udaipur, Anand Jit Singh, played a critical role in the rescue operations carried out at the Taj Hotel. He showed valor and courage under fire, becoming one of the real-life heroes depicted in the aftermath recount of the tragic events. His actions, along with those of his team, helped save many lives during one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in India's history.

The Udaipur World Music Festival was first held in 2013, and it quickly grew into one of India's prominent music festivals held annually in the city of lakes. The festival features a diverse line-up of talented musicians from around the world, offering a blend of international and regional music styles. Over the years, it has attracted both artists and tourists to Udaipur, enhancing the city's cultural vibrancy and tourism appeal.