In the history of Mewar whose reign was called the golden period ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:
Maharana Kumbha's reign (1433-1468 CE) is widely regarded by historians as the golden period of Mewar's history, a time of military strength coupled with an unprecedented cultural renaissance. He was an unmatched patron of architecture, constructing the massive Kumbhalgarh Fort and the famous Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) in Chittor, alongside numerous temples, reflecting highly advanced art and engineering. His own prolific scholarship and mastery of arts, evidenced by his composition of musical texts like 'Sangeet Raj', fostered a vibrant court that became a central hub for music, literature, and learning, cementing this era as the high point of Mewar's intellectual and artistic achievement.

The incorrect option is 1:
Rana Sanga (Maharana Sangram Singh I, ruled 1509–1528 CE) was a legendary figure celebrated for his exceptional bravery and his efforts to unite the Rajput states against external threats. While he was a powerful and successful warrior who expanded Mewar's territory significantly, his reign was predominantly a period of relentless military conflict and resistance, particularly against the Mughal Emperor Babur. The period is primarily characterized by valor and military strength, culminating in the decisive defeat at the Battle of Khanwa, which severely weakened Mewar and ultimately led to the decline of the Rajput confederacy. Thus, it cannot be classified as the cultural and architectural zenith of the 'golden period.'

The incorrect option is 3:
Rana Amar Singh I (ruled 1597–1620 CE) was the son of Maharana Pratap and continued the long-standing resistance against the Mughal Empire with great determination. However, his reign ended with the signing of the Treaty of Mewar with the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1615, which recognized Mughal suzerainty. This period is historically significant for ending a century of conflict, which allowed for peace and a subsequent flourishing of the Mewar school of painting, but it is not traditionally cited as the ultimate 'golden age.' The architectural and cultural heights achieved by Maharana Kumbha remain the defining standard for the golden era.

The incorrect option is 4:
Rana Udai Singh II (ruled 1537–1572 CE) is historically credited with the foundation of the city of Udaipur, which became the new capital of Mewar. While this was a major administrative and defensive achievement, his reign was primarily marked by instability and military setbacks against the Mughals, most notably the siege and eventual fall of the capital, Chittor, in 1568. The loss of the main fort and the subsequent re-establishment of the capital in a new location signify a period of crisis and transition, not the peak stability and cultural flourish associated with a 'golden period.'