Mourning the Loss of Rajmata Vijayraj Kumari of Mewar: A Pillar of Udaipurs Social Fabric

by

Ganpat Singh Chouhan

Mourning the Loss of Rajmata Vijayraj Kumari of Mewar: A Pillar of Udaipurs Social Fabric

Udaipur, September 15 (Daily Kiran) : The passing of Rajmata Vijayraj Kumari of Mewar has cast a shadow over Udaipur and the greater Mewar region. She died late Monday night at the age of 83 after a prolonged illness.

Her death has sparked widespread mourning across Udaipur, Mewar, and Marwar. Fans, social organizations, and political leaders from India and abroad are paying tribute to her life and legacy. Known for her warmth, dignity, and commitment to public welfare, Rajmata Vijayraj Kumari made significant contributions to education and social service, particularly in Udaipur.

Her departure marks the end of an era for a personality closely tied to the cultural and social identity of the city. Rajmata Vijayraj Kumari belonged to one of India’s most esteemed royal families. Born into the former royal family of Kutch in Gujarat, she was the younger daughter of Maharaja Fateh Singh of Kutch and the granddaughter of the Maharaja of Kutch. After her marriage, she became a member of the Mewar royal family and was the wife of the late Arvind Singh Mewar. She was also the mother of Dr. Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, a renowned social activist and educator representing the current generation of the Mewar family.

Throughout her life, Rajmata Vijayraj Kumari balanced family responsibilities with a deep commitment to preserving Mewar’s traditions and values of public service. Her affectionate nature and sense of responsibility earned her respect both within the royal family and among the people of Udaipur. Education was a cornerstone of her public life. She received her early education at the Franciscan Convent School in Ooty, which provided her with a modern outlook while instilling strong values.

After settling in Udaipur, she took a keen interest in initiatives aimed at increasing access to education and empowering women. Her involvement with Maharana Mewar Public School (MMPS) became particularly significant. During the 1980s, she played a crucial role in the institution’s development, steering it toward a modern, disciplined, and quality-focused educational model.

Her contributions have left an indelible mark, guiding generations of students toward higher education and professional careers. For those who knew her well, education was not merely about building institutions; it was a means of creating opportunities for youth and shaping their futures.

In accordance with established traditions, the royal family and administration have arranged her funeral. The final journey commenced from Shambhu Niwas Palace, located within the City Palace complex in Udaipur. A large gathering of citizens, members of social organizations, and dignitaries came together to pay their last respects at the palace. The procession then moved to the historic royal cremation ground of the Mewar family, Mahasatiyaji Ahar, where her cremation is being conducted with traditional rites and a royal guard of honor.

The scenes of her final journey reflect her deep connection with the people of Udaipur over the decades. In memory of Rajmata Vijayraj Kumari, mourning assemblies will be held. According to official information, these gatherings will take place daily from September 16 to September 23, between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, at Shambhu Niwas Palace.

As a custodian of the Mewar family’s heritage and traditions, her work in education and social welfare exemplified a visionary outlook. For Udaipur, her passing is not merely the loss of a royal family member but the end of an era for a woman who became an integral part of the city’s social and cultural fabric.

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