Bhamasah, The Saviour Of Mewar.
By Umrao Singh Tank
Summary
Bhamasah, the Saviour of Mewar, recounts the story of Bhamasah, a Kavadia Oswal by birth and a Jain by religion, who played a pivotal role in Mewar's history. Invited by Rana Udesingh in 1553, Bhamasah became a chief counselor and was granted a jagir. After Udesingh's death, he served as Prime Minister to Rana Pratap. Following Akbar's invasion of Chittore and the Battle of Haldighat, Pratap, facing exile, was persuaded by Bhamasah to return and resume resistance. Bhamasah provided Pratap with wealth from his raids into Malwa and ancestral resources, enabling the recovery of most of Mewar, except Chittore, Ajmer, and Mandalgarh. Bhamasah's loyalty and leadership are celebrated in Mewar as upholding the region's honor. The article also briefly mentions a Kashmiri version of the Ramayana, where Sita is depicted as the daughter of Mandodari, Ravana's wife, contrasting with the Jain writer Jinasena's account and Valmiki's indirect support of this legend.
Conclusion
Bhamasah's unwavering loyalty and strategic acumen during Mewar's crisis under Akbar's invasion cement his legacy as a pivotal figure in Rajput resilience. His intervention not only halted Rana Pratap's exile but also mobilized resources to reignite resistance, enabling the recovery of nearly all lost territories. This narrative underscores the critical role of selfless leadership and patriotic dedication in preserving regional sovereignty, offering a historical paradigm of moral and political fortitude. Bhamasah's story remains a testament to the enduring cultural and historical reverence for those who prioritize collective honor over personal gain.