02/10/2025
Ceremonial Inspection on Dussehra – Udaipur Court Scene during Maharana Bhupal Singh’s Reign
This grand painting captures the final ceremonial event of Dussehra at the Udaipur court — the inspection of royal horses and elephants in the courtyard before the City Palace. Following the Khejari Puja and Durbar, the Maharana, seated on a gaddi at the Naharon ka Darikhana (terrace), presides over the spectacle as bards (Charans) recite compositions.
Nine exquisitely adorned horses and five richly caparisoned elephants from the royal stables are presented for inspection, amidst a gathering of courtiers, nobles, and a British-style military band. After the inspection, the Maharana ceremonially dismisses the nobles by offering bira (betel leaf) and retires, marking the festival's conclusion with fireworks and a single shot from each state cannon.
This naturalistically rendered artwork is one of the finest from Bhupal Singh’s reign, showcasing the eastern ranges of the City Palace and believed to be among the last of Udaipur’s court painting tradition.
Maharana Bhupal Singh inspecting the royal horses and elephants at dussehra, udaipur 1939 or earlier.