Hues of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, a state in the northwest of India ! A desert state bifurcated into Mewar and Marwar regions. The state is actually spread across Mewar, Marwar, Shekhawati, Mewat, Dhundhad and Hadoti regions. Rajasthan, literally meaning ‘Land of Kings’ or ‘King’s Abode’ and is truly deserving of being called ‘Royal Rajasthan’. The state’s history is replete with stories of valour of its brave kings. The state also has a rich legacy of arts, sports, history and culture and is the most favoured destination of foreign tourists. A long weekend brings with it an interesting opportunity of touring the state, so let’s explore the ‘Hues of Rajasthan’.

Part 1 – A Saga of Valour and Victory

On 26 th January, I had the chance to visit Longewala Post, a defence border post 100 kms from Jaisalmer. If you wish to know modern history, you must visit this historical monument. Longewala Post gained importance due to the India-Pakistan war in 1971. The Indo-Pak battle was fought here on the desert terrain on December 5 and 6, 1971. Under the able command of Major Kuldeep Singh Chandpuri, a regiment of only 120 soldiers fought an entire regiment of Pakistani tank. Inapprehensible bravery, unflagging optimism and veracious war strategy enabled these soldiers to fight into the night that led Pakistan to bite the dust. On the morning of 6 December, with the help of the Indian Air Force, the Pakistani tank regiment was finally decimated. Pakistan had to accept defeat. Then the Kumaon regiment came forward. India gained victory after the sacrifice of its soldiers.

On a terrain that makes even walking difficult, fighting a battle in such adverse conditions, is a story of immeasurable grit, nationalism and bravery. Our sincere obeisance to the valiant spirit of our martyrs!!

There is a war memorial here. We got to see the captured Pakistan tank regiment, Indian bunkers and anti-tank guns. A documentary on the 1971 Indo-Pak war was also shown along with the names of Paramvir Chakra, Veerchakra awardees. Standing on the erstwhile battleground makes for a thrilling experience, but not without bringing tears to your eyes.

Further from here, is the Tanot Mata mandir. Wartime legend has it that, not a single bomb dropped here by the Pakistani armed forces exploded and hence, no casualty. The soldiers believe that it was the Goddess who protected them!! The temple showcases some of the bombs that were thrown by the enemy side. The Border Security Force maintains the temple premises.

On the road from Longewala Post to Tanot Mata Mandir is Saadewala Post. Pakistan had attacked this post too in the 1965 Indo-Pak war only to lose this war yet again. There is a war memorial here too.

Indeed, the journey from Jaisalmer to Longewala and to Tanot Mata Mandir was an emotionally-charged one. The excitement at the beginning of the journey had translated into one of pride. In between, I was choked with emotions !! Emotions of patriotism, respect and concern for our brave soldiers who stand guarding our nation’s borders in such tough conditions ! My heart was filled with gratitude, I had no words to express my sincere thanks!!

Let us take a moment to salute our Real Heroes and to prostrate before the Mothers of such valiant soldiers. It has been a soulful journey, a journey that rekindles the flame of being ‘Indian’ and sense of Indianness !!

Jai Hind !!

Jai Hind ki Sena !!

Spruha Bhave
Iha Nature Holidays
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