Udaipur, Rajasthan – The Maharana Bhupal College Alumni Council held its monthly Sneha Milan Samaroh at the college’s Vivekananda Auditorium, attended by alumni and distinguished guests. The event was presided over by Council President Prof. Maheep Bhatnagar, with General Secretary Shantilal Bhandari, Dr. K.L. Kothari, P.K. Vardiya, Shiv Ratan Tiwari, and M.P. Jain seated on the dais.
In his welcome address, General Secretary Shantilal Bhandari shared that the Council has completed 15 successful years. He also announced that during the annual celebration in August, seven nonagenarians and sixteen octogenarian members will be specially honored. The monthly report was presented and approved by the house under the moderation of Prakash Tated.
Cultural Festivities and Recognitions
The gathering honored all members celebrating birthdays in the current month, extending heartfelt wishes for their health and longevity. A series of cultural performances added joy to the evening:
Sita Sharma performed “Darshan Do Ghanshyam Nath Mori”
Sanjeev Bhardwaj sang “Baat Muddat Ke Baad Ye Ghadi Aayi”
B.L. Chawat rendered “Hothon Se Chhoo Lo Tum”
Vimal Sharma sang “Rimjhim Gire Sawan”
Mrs. Mukul Bakshi presented “Sawan Ka Mahina”
Sharda Talesara performed the folk song “Sawan Aayo Lahriyo Rangwa De Rasiya”
In the poetry segment, contributions included:
Dr. K.L. Kothari: “Hai Varkha Tu Vars Vars”
Vardhman: “Dharti Ro Hariyalo Anchal”
Shiv Ratan Tiwari: “Ram Virah Geet” and a Mewari poem on the challenges of schoolteachers
Prof. Maheep Bhatnagar delivered a motivational address on the spiritual strength behind “Dhai Akshar” (Two and a Half Letters – symbolizing love and compassion). Shivdan Singh captivated the audience with a soulful bansuri (flute) performance.
Tribute to Thakur Amar Chand Badwa
A special segment of the program was dedicated to the valor and vision of Thakur Amar Chand Badwa, a renowned Prime Minister of Mewar. Colonel Abhay Lodha, invited as guest speaker, highlighted Badwa’s military strategy during the Maratha invasions and praised his leadership during a politically sensitive era. He also explained the significance of a surviving “Loadchi” cannon from that period.
Prof. Vimal Sharma informed the audience about the first authentic publication on Thakur Badwa. During the reign of Maharana Ari Singh, Badwa was instrumental in establishing:
Four small fortresses (gadhiyas) at strategic city exits:
Suryagarh (Suraj Pol)
Indragarh (Udiya Pol)
Ambavgarh (Amba Pol)
Sarneshwar Garh (Delhi Gate)
Five defensive cannons were also deployed:
Vajrabaan Cannon at Eklinggarh
Jagatshobha Cannon near Kishanpol
One near Ambavgarh
Shiv Prasanna Cannon at Purohit Burj
Katak Bijli Cannon near Amar Ota
These measures played a decisive role in safeguarding Udaipur from enemy infiltration.
The program concluded with a two-minute silence to pay tribute to a recently departed senior member, followed by the national anthem. The evening ended on a warm note with all attendees enjoying a community dinner in the spirit of togetherness.