Maharana Fateh Singh

1884 A.D. - 1930 A.D. (73rd custodian)

Maharana Fateh Singh, adopted from the Shivrati branch of the family, proved to be a visionary ruler and he held the gaddi of Mewar for nearly half a century and his period witnessed the most drastic of all changes. His reign saw further modernisation of administration and the opening of new educational institutions, medical facilities, roads, and irrigation works among other things. Further land revenue settlements were also carried out during his period.

Like a true Suryavanshi, Graciousness and humility, piety and a sense of pride were instilled in him and he refused to bow to the dictates of the British and completely overturned the secondary role, which British paramountcy imposed upon him. In December 1911 he went to Delhi on the occasion of the Delhi Durbar to mark the visit of King George the V and Queen Mary, however he did not take his seat in the Durbar. His piety derived its strength from the Hindu scriptures. In the 45 years of his reign, Fateh Singh made it clear to the British that he was not the Maharana by the grace of any Queen of England but by order of his own people and in the service of Lord Eklingji.

For a simple man hailing from a modest village, Maharana Fateh Singh indeed brought to life the glories of Mewar. He remained a fountainhead of inspiration as he fulfilled the Kshatriya vows of honour, decency and hospitality in his long reign. Though the Maharana was advised to abdicate in favour of his nominated heir, he refused to oblige. However he died around 9 years later at the age of eighty on May 20th 1930.