Given the peace and serenity the place has, along with its unblemished natural beauty and cool breeze, the location stands out to be the most peaceful of present-day Udaipur. The serene Badi Lake starts mirroring oranges and golden colors, the gradual dusk creeping in the Aravallis. But beyond the beautiful setting lies a story which is the ultimate of all the tales we have heard about. It is a story of kindness, leadership and vision.
The Badi Lake Udaipur history isn’t just of the serene water body that can be seen from afar. It holds connection with a ruler of great vision and foresight- the Maharana Raj Singh Mewar. It was with the ruler’s thought-process and visualization that such a marvel would have its existence and cater to the people in ages to come.
Who was Maharana Raj Singh 1 of Mewar?
- Born– 24th September, 1629
- Died– 22nd October, 1680
- Spouse– Rani Charumati of Kishangarh (He had multiple spouses)
- Children– Eldest Son is Maharana Jai Singh (He had many children from his other Queens)
- Duration of reign– 1652-1680
The heir of Maharana Jagat Singh I and Jana Devi, Maharana Raj Singh I was the eldest son of Jagat Singh I and inherited the throne of Mewar from him. The Maharana Raj Singh Mewar history showcases his immense courage and defiance of the King.
The 17th Century ruler of Mewar, Maharana Raj Singh I was renowned for having challenged Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, reinforcing the borders of Mewar and re- establishing the cultural renaissance. The Maharana Raj Singh Mewar was also instrumental in the protection of the idol of ShriNathji from Mathura and shifting the same to build a temple in Nathdwara, where people worship and pray to the Lord. He also built the famous Rajsamand Lake and established Mewar as a sovereign state under extreme conditions of Mughal tyranny.
Why was Badi Lake built?
The Badi Lake Udaipur history begins with a strong famine and water scarcity in Udaipur. It was during this time that Maharana Raj Singh 1 of Mewar visualised and thought of building this lake to overcome the tough situations for water and food. Located near the Badi Village, this artificial man-made lake was commissioned to provide a dependable water supply to the residents of the city during drought and dry summers.
This Badi Lake also has another name. The other name that is less known by the people and locals of Udaipur is “Jiyan Lake”. Raj Singh named the lake after his mother Jana Devi. What makes this lake truly special is that it was not created for luxury or royal pleasure. It was built as a humanitarian effort to help people survive difficult times.
The rulers of Mewar thought way ahead of their time. When they came up with the idea of building the lakes in and around Udaipur to help the city meet its water needs, they interconnected the lakes. This helps the city prevent it from getting flooded. Since the lakes are interconnected, during monsoons, when one lake fills up to its full capacity, the water level is managed by opening the gates of the lake to let the water flow from one lake to another. Thus, keeping the lakes filled with water and the problem of flooding is prevented.
The Present Day Badi Lake for tourists
The Mewar History has a lot of stories about rulers that depict the valour of the region and add a feather to the cap of Mewar. However, the Badi Lake History is something that every tourist should know. This place is very fondly known for its beautiful scenery and surroundings.
At present, tourists can explore the Badi Lake by visiting it in the early mornings or in the late evenings to capture the sunrise or sunset behind the Aravalli horizon. Near the Badi Lake, there is another attraction known as the Bahubali Hills. This hill is very famous for pre-wedding photoshoots. Anytime you visit this place, you can find a couple having their photoshoot done.
Apart from the photoshoot scenes and other panoramic views, you can enjoy the freshly made and hot maggie with pakoras and tea.
Interesting Facts About Badi Lake
- Badi Lake is also known as Jiyan Sagar
- It was built during the 17th century by Maharana Raj Singh I
- The lake was created mainly for drought relief and water conservation
- It remains one of the peaceful, hidden gems connected to the Udaipur lake history
The presence of hills surrounding the area makes it one of the best scenic places in the city.
Conclusion
The lakes of Udaipur each have their own tale to tell, but Badi Lake’s narrative is of kindness, survival and vision. Maharana Raj Singh 1 built much more than a reservoir; he built a legacy for a part of Mewar.
Centuries later, when people come to sit by the peaceful lake, little do they know of a king who gave them this location for life.
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