Jaipur: The tension that had gripped Udaipur’s former royal family over the coronation rituals was finally put to rest on Thursday evening. The historic City Palace, which had been a symbol of the dispute, opened its gates at 6:30 PM, bringing a sense of relief to all.

Lakshyaraj Singh, cousin of Nathdwara MLA and newly anointed Mewar family member Vishvaraj Singh, personally arrived to unlock the gates. Addressing the crowd, he expressed gratitude, saying, “I want to thank the government, the people of Udaipur, and the administration. An atmosphere of harmony has been re-established in the city.”

The closure had caused significant inconvenience, with tourists being turned away and local shopkeepers experiencing a dip in business. With the reopening, tourist activities are expected to resume. Udaipur Collector Arvind Poswal also issued an order lifting Section 163, which had been imposed in the City Palace area.

The controversy stemmed from Vishvaraj Singh Mewar’s coronation ceremony, a significant event in the Mewar family’s history, held on November 25 in Chittorgarh. Following long-standing traditions, he was declared the 77th Diwan of Eklingji, a title of great cultural and historical significance.

As part of the post-coronation rituals, Vishvaraj Singh attempted to perform ‘Dhuni Darshan’ at the City Palace in Udaipur but was met with closed gates. This led to a tense standoff involving a property dispute within the royal family. The situation escalated to stone pelting from both sides, prompting Vishvaraj Singh to leave and ask his supporters to disperse.

By Wednesday, after partial access was granted, Vishvaraj Singh was able to offer prayers during Dhuni Darshan. The situation finally normalised on Thursday evening, marking the end of the dispute with the complete reopening of the City Palace gates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

–IANS