In a solemn and historic event, Vishwaraj Singh Mewar, son of the late Mahendra Singh Mewar and MLA from Nathdwara, will be officially declared the successor of the Mewar legacy on Monday, November 25, 2024. The coronation ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. at the Fateh Prakash Mahal in Chittorgarh, following a centuries-old tradition involving a blood tilak.
Former Rawat of Salumber, Devvrat Singh, a descendant of the illustrious Chunda family, will carry out the ritual by cutting his thumb and using his blood to mark the tilak on Vishwaraj Singh’s forehead. This ritual, steeped in history, dates back to 1572 when Rawat Kisan Das performed the blood tilak to anoint Kunwar Pratap as the Maharana of Mewar during tumultuous times.
The Legacy of Blood Tilak
The tradition of blood tilak began when Maharana Pratap’s coronation took place near the Gogunda Bawdi under dire circumstances. Lacking kumkum for the ritual, Rawat Kisan Das used his own blood to perform the tilak, symbolizing loyalty and sacrifice. Since then, descendants of the Chunda family have continued this practice, making it an integral part of Mewar’s royal traditions.
Sacred Blessings and Rituals
As part of the coronation, offerings of sacred ash, flowers, and blessings will be brought from prominent temples, including Eklingji, Dwarkadhish in Kankroli, and Charbhuja in Garhbor. Each of these temples holds significant spiritual importance:
- Eklingji Temple: Symbolizing the divine protector of Mewar, this ritual signifies Vishwaraj Singh’s role as the Diwan (administrator) of the temple.
- Dwarkadhish Temple: Represents Vishwaraj’s initiation into Vaishnavism under the temple’s spiritual guidance.
- Charbhuja Temple: A major Krishna pilgrimage site, highlighting Mewar’s devotion to Lord Krishna.
The ceremony will culminate with Vishwaraj Singh taking blessings at these temples, marking the start of his new responsibilities.
Participation of Royal Representatives
The coronation is expected to attract a large gathering, including Udaipur residents, social dignitaries, and representatives of erstwhile princely families. Following the ceremony, Vishwaraj Singh will visit Eklingji and Dwarkadhish temples, completing the formalities of royal mourning and the joyous assumption of his new role.
Potential Disputes
While the coronation is a matter of pride and heritage, it is not without controversy.
- City Palace Visit: Organizers claim Vishwaraj Singh will pay respects at the Dhuni in the City Palace. However, the palace is under the control of Arvind Singh Mewar, brother of the late Mahendra Singh. The Maharana Mewar Charitable Foundation, led by Arvind Singh, issued a notice on Sunday restricting unauthorized entry into the museum, raising concerns over the event’s access.
- Eklingji Temple Dispute: The Eklingji Temple, managed by a trust headed by Arvind Singh, has also restricted unauthorized access on November 25. The trust has requested additional security, citing concerns over potential damage to the property.
A Symbol of Tradition and Transition
Despite these challenges, the coronation of Vishwaraj Singh Mewar reflects the enduring legacy and traditions of Mewar’s royal lineage. By upholding rituals like the blood tilak, this event serves as a bridge between history and modernity, keeping alive the values of sacrifice, duty, and devotion that define the house of Mewar.