Durgadas Rathore

Durgadas Rathore

Technical Data

Date of Issue August 26, 1988
Denomination 60 p
Quantity 1000000
Perforation comb 13 x 13½
Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Reddish brown
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 1176

Stamp Number IN 1237

Yvert et Tellier IN 987

Stanley Gibbons IN 1327

Themes

Durgadas Rathore: A Legacy of Loyalty and Courage

Early Life:

  • Birth: Durgadas Rathore was born on 13th August 1638 at Salwa, Marwar, to Askaran Rathore, a Rajput noble.
  • Quiet Beginnings: He lived a peaceful life with his mother in Lunawa near Sawla Kalan until an incident changed his fate.

Turning Point:

  • Act of Loyalty: In 1655, Durgadas Rathore killed the official camel herdsmen for insulting the king, displaying his unwavering loyalty to the throne.
  • Under Aurangzeb: With Aurangzeb becoming the Emperor of Hindustan, Durgadas aligned himself with Jaswant Singh I, ruler of Marwar, and later served as Governor of Kabul under his patronage.

Service to Marwar:

  • Guardian of Ajit Singh: After Jaswant Singh’s death in 1678, Durgadas Rathore assumed the responsibility of protecting Marwar’s sovereignty and safeguarding young Ajit Singh, the heir.
  • Challenges: Faced with court intrigues and Mughal pressures, Durgadas Rathore navigated through battles, skirmishes, and diplomatic maneuvers to uphold Marwar’s independence.

Achievements:

  • Military Leadership: Durgadas Rathore’s leadership united Rajputs from diverse backgrounds, rallying them under one banner in defense of Marwar.
  • Chivalry: Known for his chivalrous conduct, he famously protected Aurangzeb’s granddaughter, highlighting his respect for women and his sense of honor.

Legacy:

  • Death: Durgadas Rathore passed away on 22nd November 1718, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty, chivalry, and courage.
  • Inspiration: His life remains a shining example of dedication to duty and service to one’s land, inspiring generations with his valorous deeds.

Conclusion:

Durgadas Rathore’s life epitomizes the Rajput ethos of honor, bravery, and loyalty. His unwavering commitment to Marwar’s sovereignty amidst challenging times solidified his place in history as a revered hero of Rajasthan.

Source:

Material courtesy of Veer Durgadas Rathore Smriti Samiti, Jodhpur