Rajasthan: A Journey Through History, Nature and Culture
Class 10 students of Jubilee Hills Public School explored Kumbhalgarh,
Udaipur and Chittorgarh on an educational trip that brought Rajasthan’s history, nature and culture to life.
The journey began amidst the ancient Aravalli hills with an approximately two-hour, open-air gypsy safari through Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. The students spotted leopards, mouse deer and langurs, thriving peacefully in their natural habitat. The forest’s tranquillity offered a calming contrast to everyday life.
The following day, the students travelled through nearby villages in open-air gypsies, observing fields, agricultural practices and rural life. The local leader contesting for the post of sarpanch interacted with the students about the community, sharing insights on local governance, funding and the challenges they face. The students gained an understanding of the working and importance of the local self-government.
The students were thrilled to feed enormous catfish, which splashed and swarmed eagerly for the food, before visiting a local Hindu temple. At Kumbhalgarh Fort, built by Rana Kumbha in the fifteenth century and known as Maharana Pratap’s birthplace. The students enjoyed the spectacular view of the Aravalli hills and the fort’s approximately 36-kilometre wall, widely regarded as the world’s second-longest continuous wall after the Great Wall of China. The day concluded with a lively DJ night at the resort, with energetic dances to some peppy songs.
In Udaipur, founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1553, the students visited the beautiful Saheliyon Ki Bari, an eighteenth-century royal garden known for its fountains, pavilions and lotus pools. Later in the evening, they explored the City Palace, developed by successive Mewar rulers and overlooking the Lake Pichola and Fateh Sagar lake. These lakes showcased the city’s scenic beauty.Later, a kathputli (puppet )show at the hotel, introduced the students to Rajasthan’s traditional storytelling art. A few students also had a hands on experience with puppet making.
At Chittorgarh Fort, the former capital of Mewar, the students encountered landmarks reflecting the region’s history of faith and resistance. These included Meera Bai Temple, associated with the Krishna devotee and saint; Vijay Stambh, commissioned by Rana Kumbha to commemorate a victory; the Jain Kirti Stambh, dedicated to Adinath; and Rani Padmini Mahal, linked to a celebrated local legend.
The students visited the local weavers’ emporium where there were a large variety of sarees made with various plant based materials like lotus, bamboo, banana stem etc. Many students bought sarees as gifts / souvenirs for their family members. Later, they proceeded to the local marketplace to shop for more.
The students savored the local cuisine served at various meals such as Dal bati churma. Beyond the historical sites and wildlife, music-filled bus rides, shared laughter strengthened friendships and made everlasting memories. The students returned to Hyderabad with a deeper appreciation of Rajasthan’s heritage, new knowledge and remembrances to cherish.
