Maharana Pratap's Chetak || Epitome of Bravery, Loyalty and Love The warrior in ...

... the picture is Maharana Pratap, one of the greatest kings of Mewar Kingdom. Chetak is the name of the horse that was tamed by King Maharana Pratap. It belongs to the rarest and brave breed of horses available in those times. Often kings choose their horses but people of Mewar say that horse Chetak has chosen his master.

Mewar kingdom was situated in the Aravali ranges in the North-western part of India which serves as natural fortwall and protected kingdom for foreign invasions. There were several narrow paths which can give access to the important places of kingdom and these narrow paths has helped Udaipur from attacks for a long time. These narrow paths are very irregular in shape and are confusing to a new people who enters the fort for the first time. They can be seen in City place in Udaipur even now.

In 1576, Mughals emperor Akbar invaded Udaipur the capital of Mewar kingdom. This firece battle was called the battle of Haldighati named after the single narrow and important pass which can give access to Mewar Kingdom.

King Maharana Pratap was accompanied by his friend Chetak during the fierce battle. It was a chosen horse known for its beauty, mettle and bravery. Both Maharana Pratap and Chetak were wounded severely by enemies. It is said that an elephant's tusk tore through Chetak rear legs and crippled it. Even after getting hurt severely, Chetak did not give up and made his way back to safety on 3 legs. Mughals were unable to capture Maharana Pratap.

The life of Chetak is being celebrated in some parts of Rajasthan for its highest degree of loyalty and bravery till now even after 4 centuries.It holds high degree respect from not only people of Rajasthan but from every part of India.