The Annual Scheme of Awards constitutes a major part of the activities of the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF), Udaipur. From a modest beginning of awards only for scholars in Udaipur, the orbit of this Annual Scheme of Awards has steadily grown to become a recognised event in the national and international arena. Today, the Awards honour recognition of service of permanent value already rendered to society in which, eminent scholars, students and common citizens who, through their chosen field of activity, have contributed to society. They include awards for historical research, art and painting, music and dance, education and journalism, and a variety of other contributions to social welfare. In addition, the Foundation set up a number of subsidiary trusts for religious and charitable purposes to give assistance without distinction of caste or creed or religion. The present custodian Shriji Arvind Singh Mewar has since, added considerably to his inherited legacy, extending the scope and size of the various charities operated by the trust.

On the evening of Saturday the 10th March 2018 Hindustani Classical Music Concert was organised at The Manek Chowk, Udaipur

Colonel James Tod Award
(Instituted in 1996-97)

In 1806, Lieutenant-Colonel (then Lieutenant) James Tod first met Maharana Bheem Singh (r.1778-1828 AD) in the outer courtyard of the temple of Shree Eklingji. Colonel Tod was, at that time, Commander of the Escort with Daulat Rao Scindia's perambulating court. This meeting sparked his interest in the States of Rajputana, and he used his position to acquaint himself wholly with their affairs. Tod was the first to systematically map this region, and his intimate knowledge of the terrain proved extremely useful for the Company's armies in fighting off Pindari and Maratha incursions into Rajputana from 1817-1818.

On the 13th January 1818, the East India Company and Maharana Bheem Singh executed a treaty of mutual friendship, in which the Company promised to provide military protection to Mewar against hostile forces, and to help reclaim lands that had been usurped. In recognition of his services and experience in Rajputana, Colonel (then Captain) Tod was appointed by Lord Hastings, Governor General, as Political Agent to the Western Rajput States, resident at the court of Maharana Bheem Singh in Udaipur. Colonel Tod's official charge was to implement the term of the treaty and to manage the affairs and relations of the British East India Company with Mewar. Colonel Tod executed his duties with skill and authority, leading to flourishing conditions in Mewar, as well as a long and vital relationship between Mewar and the Company. In 1822, after four years service in Udaipur, and twenty-two years total in India, Colonel Tod returned to England.

In addition to his official duties, Colonel Tod spent a great deal of his own time and personal resources in the collection of historical documents, inscriptions, bardic accounts and genealogies of the Rajput houses and paintings from Rajasthan. From his residence in the village Dabok, beyond the outer city wall of Udaipur, now near the airport, Colonel Tod began, for the first time, to synthesize the history of Rajputana. Totally immersed in the activities of the Mewar Court, past and present, he developed a deep insight into the stories of courage, heroism, honour and duty within the history of Mewar. During his second visit he was provided with Rampyaribai's haveli as his residence. Upon his return to England Colonel Tod continued his research, culminating in the publication of the now-classic Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan (2 vols., 1829, 1832). In this seminal work, Colonel Tod produced the first encyclopedic and comprehensive history of Rajasthan. His lesser-known work, Travels in Western India (published posthumously in 1839), chronicles his final days in India travelling from Udaipur to Bombay, via Mount Abu. This interesting and as yet under-appreciated work is also the first to provide indepth descriptions of the religious life and customs of the Bhil and Mina hill tribes of Southern Rajasthan.

Colonel Tod's reliance on oral bardic accounts of Mewar's history preserved a valuable, yet vulnerable, corpus of historical source material. In doing so, many say that Colonel Tod is responsible for globally recognising the Rajputs, and especially Mewar. The true value of his work lies in the preservation, in perpetuity, of this grand story for everyone, not only India but the whole world.

His late Highness Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar established Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation "to serve society and assist man to realise his special status in the hierarchy of God's creations". Colonel Tod introduced his Annals in the following way: "To see humanity under every aspect, and to observe the influence of different creeds upon man in his social capacity, must ever be one of the highest sources of mental enjoyment". (Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan (1832 II.vii).

It is in the spirit of these like-minded men, centuries apart, that this International Award has been instituted. Colonel James Tod Award is an International Award. This award has been instituted to honour a foreign national who, like Tod, has contributed through his works of permanent value an understanding of the spirit and values of Mewar. This International Annual Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash award of ` 2,11,001

Professor John Stratton Hawley (informally Jack) is Claire Tow Professor of Religion at Barnard College, Columbia University. He has written or edited some twenty books on Hinduism, India's bhakti traditions, and the comparative study of religion. These include A Storm of Songs: India and the Idea of the Bhakti Movement (Harvard, 2015), Sur's Ocean (with Kenneth Bryant, Harvard, 2015), and Three Bhakti Voices (Oxford, 2005). A Storm of Songs was the recipient of the Ananda Kentish Coomaraswamy book prize of the Association for Asian Studies in 2017.

Professor Hawley's recent work on the beautifully illustrated Maharana Amar Singh II (r.1698 - 1710 CE) Sursagar, painted in the royal atelier at Mewar, lies at the heart of a new hundred-page-long chapter that appears in the revised, expanded edition of his thematic study Surdas: Poet, Singer, Saint. This book, featuring upwards of thirty color plates, was launched by Primus Books at the India International Centre on 8th January 2018. All of Hawley's writing on Surdas is indebted in one way or another to manuscript work he has undertaken in Udaipur, Rajasthan. This work stretches way back to the 1970's and was crucially assisted by Dr. Brajmohan Jawaliya, Udaipur.

Professor Hawley has directed Columbia University's South Asia Institute and has received multiple awards from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Smithsonian Institution, and the American Institute of Indian Studies. In 2016 - 17 he was in India as a Fulbright - Nehru Fellow, focusing on a project called "The New Vrindavan". He has been a Guggenheim Fellow and is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

He is also a Member of the American Academy of Religion, the American Oriental Society, the Association for Asian Studies, and the American Committee for South Asian Art.

The courses he teaches at Barnard College and Columbia University cover a considerable range. They include: The Bhakti Movement; Bhakti Texts of North India; Love Translated: Hindu Bhakti; “World Religions”- Idea, Display, Institution; Hinduism Here (i.e., in the United States); Issues in the Study of South Asian Religion; and, with Courtney Bender, Religious Worlds of New York. Last fall he offered a seminar devoted specifically to Krishna, and for many years he has taught Columbia's introductory course on Hinduism.

Maharana Mewar Foundation International Annual Award titled Colonel James Tod Award - 2018 is conferred to Professor John Stratton Hawley for his outstanding contribution through his works of permanent value an understanding of the spirit and values of Mewar.

Haldighati Award
(Instituted in 1982-83)

Haldighati is the valley, near Nathdwara, District Rajsamand, Rajasthan where on 18th June A.D. 1576 Kunwar Man Singh of Amber mounted on his mighty war elephant led the Mughal armies against Rana Pratap who on his incomparable white Stallion Chetak carried the crimson banner of Mewar into the thrust of the battle. Neither lance nor sword, nor the arrows that rained like hail around him could stem the course of that intrepid charge. For the first time in fifty years the Moghuls suffered their first setback and Haldighati shattered the myth of their invincibility - symbolic of the war that was fought for the protection and preservation of self respect, self reliance and independence.

The battle of Haldighati unlike any other battle in the military history of warfare has aroused the greatest and most multifaceted interest. This single occasion has raised issues of social context, the composition of opposing forces, the efficiency of execution of the adopted strategy and tactics and finally most touchingly the acts of unparalleled bravery, unmatched sacrifices and unimaginable fighting skills of a few individuals who participated in this battle. All these issues have assumed tremendous significance, as time goes by.

Rana Pratap is a national hero on account of his commitment to preserve the independence of Mewar, at any cost, despite heavy odds stacked against him. Even now his life inspires those who revere the value of living with self respect and self reliance. Today those who are prepared to speak out, or use their pen without fear of the consequences to enlighten society, are synonymous with the battle of Haldighati.

Haldighati Award is a National Award. It is awarded to an individual for work of permanent value in awakening society through the medium of journalism, in particular, or through any other media in general.

This National Annual Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate
4. Cash award of ` 1,00,001

Ms. Suhasini Haidar is the Diplomatic Editor of The Hindu, one of India's oldest and most respected National dailies - www.thehindu.com, regularly writing on Foreign policy issues.

Prior to this, she was Foreign Affairs editor and prime time anchor for India's leading 24 – hour English news channel CNN - IBN from 2005 to 2014, where she presented the signature show 'World View with Suhasini Haidar', and was Correspondent for CNN International's New Delhi bureau.

She earned a Bachelor's degree at Lady Shriram College in Delhi, and then completed her Masters in Broadcast Journalism at Boston University's College of Communication, USA. She began her career in journalism as an intern at CNN's United Nation's bureau in New York in 1994, after which she joined CNN New Delhi bureau as a producer in April 1995.

Over the course of her 20 year reporting career, she has covered the most challenging stories and conflicts from the most diverse regions including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Libya, Lebanon and Syria. In India, she has covered the foreign affairs beat for over a decade. During her time reporting from the heart of conflict zones, she was injured in 2000 while in Kashmir when a car, booby - trapped with a gas cylinder packed with explosives in its boot, exploded.

Suhasini Haider worked with CNN International from 1995 - 2005, regularly reporting from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. She was the part of the CNN team that won the Columbia - Dupont Broadcast Journalism Award in 2005 for coverage of the tsunami in India, and worked for CNN.com in New York for a month during its 9/11 coverage.

Suhasini's articles at The Hindu have covered wide range topics including Indian Foreign Policy, International Diplomacy and Global Security challenges. She has also been invited by the Jaipur Literature Festival to host and speak on foreign affairs and media.

Suhasini's notable assignments include PM Narendra Modi's visits abroad including to US, China, UK, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Israel. She has recorded special interviews with Narendra Modi (then Gujarat Chief Minister, 2009) and his family, Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Former Pakistan President General Musharraf, his wife and mother, Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and wife Cherie Blair. In Pakistan she has reported on all major events from the Benazir Bhutto assassination and the Pakistan elections in 2013, 2007 and 1997. She was the only Indian journalist in Gaddafi -controlled areas in Libya in March 2011, and one of the only journalists to visit Syria after the crackdown in August 2011. She reported from Egypt in the weeks before the July 2013 coup and was the only woman onboard an Indian Naval warship evacuating Indians from Lebanon 2006. She has travelled to Hezbollah controlled areas; covered the Myanmar elections in 2012 and anchored a special show from Yangon.

She is the recipient of many accolades and awards for her significant work in journalism.

These include Prem Bhatia Award - 2015 which is one of the most prestigious Indian print journalism; People of the Year, Limca Book of Records - 2014; Best TV News Presenter, NT Awards - 2014; Global News coverage, Indian Television Academy - GR8 Award - 2011; Best spot news reporting (Libya), Exchange 4 Media Award - 2011 and has won a series of awards for her work in Television.

Maharana Mewar Foundation National Annual Award titled Haldighati Award - 2018 is conferred to Ms. Suhasini Haider for her work of permanent value in awakening society through the medium of journalism

Hakim Khan Sur Award
(Instituted in 1986-87)

Hakim Khan Sur was a Pathan who came to Mewar from his domicile in Hyderabad, Deccan. He became a general in Rana Pratap's army and fought to uphold the freedom and beliefs of his adopted home in the epic battle of Haldi Ghati (A.D. 1576) against the invading Mughal army of Emperor Akbar. This is the first recorded instance in the Annals of Mewar in which the responsibility of leading the Mewar Army was not entirely entrusted to Shaktawat or Chundawat brethren. This was the direct consequence of Hakim Khan Sur's declared undertaking that no one would be able to part him from his sword in battle. Despite being a follower of Islam he laid down his life in battle fighting against his blood brothers thereby fulfilling his commitment to uphold the freedom and honour of Mewar. Even in death no one could part him from his sword and he was buried with full honours with his sword in hand.

His sacrifice is symbolic of the supremacy of ideology over religious and communal consideration - a unique example of his belief in the principles and commitment of unquestionable loyalty and devotion to Manav Dharma.

Hakim Khan Sur Award is National Award. This award has been instituted to honour work of permanent value for the cause of national integration.
This National Annual Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash award of ` 1,00,001

Dr. E. Sreedharan was born on 12th June, 1932 in a remote village in Kerala. He had a brilliant academic career and took his degree in Civil Engineering in 1953 at the Government College of Engineering, Kakinada. He entered the elite Indian Railway Service of Engineers in December 1954.

As an Executive Engineer on Southern Railway he came into the spotlight when he restored the 26 spans of Pamban Railway Bridge, which had been washed away by tidal waves on the 22nd December 1963, in a record time of 46 days. He held many challenging and responsible posts on Indian Railways, including General Manager, Western Railway and retired in June 1990 as Member Engineering, Railway Board. In between he was also on deputation to the country's biggest Shipyard at Kochi, as its Chairman and Managing Director (CMD). On his retirement, he headed the Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd. as its CMD and executed the 760 km long Konkan Railway from Mumbai to Mangalore, in an incredibly short period of seven years. On completion of Konkan Railway he was selected to head the prestigious Delhi Metro as its Managing Director. 180 kms of Delhi Metro was commissioned by the time he stepped down in December 2011.

Government of India awarded Dr. Sreedharan 'Padma Shri' in 2001 and 'Padma Vibhushan' in 2008. The President of French Republic awarded him the highest civilian honour of 'Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur' (Knight of the Legion of Honour) in 2005. Government of Japan awarded him “the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star” on 6th November, 2013 at Tokyo. He has been awarded Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science / Philosophy / Literature by as many as 16 IITs and Universities in the country.

His pioneering contribution to the Delhi Metro and to the spread of Metro revolution in the country earned him the nick name 'Metro Man'. Presently he is Principal Adviser, Delhi Metro and advising most of the Metros under implementation in the country.

Maharana Mewar Foundation National Annual Award titled Hakim Khan Sur Award - 2018 is awarded to Dr. E. Sreedharan in recognition of his distinguished service of permanent value to society for providing transport links to millions throughout India.

Maharana Udai Singh Award
(Instituted in 1996-97)

The tumultuous life of Maharana Udai Singh (r. 1537-1572 AD) stands in marked contrast to the tranquility and beauty of the City that today bears his name. After narrowly escaping an assassination attempt, Udai Singh lived for years in exile in Kumbhalgarh. Udai Singh ascended the throne in 1537 backed by the nobles of Mewar, and returned to Chittorgarh to continue his rule. Emperor Akbar besieged Chittorgarh in 1567. Maharana Udai Singh, having foresight into the barbarity of the battle that would ensue and desiring that the Mewar line should continue, left Chittorgarh earlier and sought safety in the valley of the Aravali hills.

Maharana Udai Singh had created a lake and named it Udai Sagar. After his safe arrival in 1553 he founded the City of Udaipur and began to build a new palace on the shores of Lake Pichola. Thus, Udaipur became the new capital of Mewar.

Today the city of Udaipur is renowned the world over for its natural beauty. The lakes, gardens and once abundant flora and fauna form a picturesque setting for the magnificent palace complex to be found here. Udaipur is often referred to as the 'Venice of the East' and such praise is testament to the farsightedness of Maharana Udai Singh and his successors.

Today at the beginning of the 21st century, we are standing at the cutting edge of urbanisation, growth and development. In the 20th century, much of this development has been a product of unplanned haphazard growth which has lead to environmental degradation. The issues of development and maintenance of environmental balance are inextricable linked. An amalgamation of these issues for environmental growth has been a central tradition to the House of Mewar. The city of Udaipur has served as a model of sustainable development from its conception to its current progressive development.

Maharana Udai Singh Award is a National Award. This award has been instituted to honour work of permanent value in protecting and enriching the environment, hand-in-hand with future development. The spirit of this great cause has been pursued by all the Maharanas of Mewar, and is epitomised by Maharana Udai Singh's creation of Udaipur.
This National Annual Award comprises:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash award of ` 1,00,001

Mr. Gafarbhai Qureshi was just a 14 year old when his father passed away. His father was a small farmer from Ramdechi, Talala, Gir Somnath District of Gujarat. He had four acres of land, a well and 50 plants. With four more brothers and three sisters, he accompanied his father to the farm. After his father's death; he made it a point to grow more and more plants. He used traditional farming methods on several plantations until he met Prof. Anil Gupta from Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad who initiated the idea of a 'Shodh Yatra'. The aim of the 'Shodh Yatra' was to learn about the experiences of the farmers engaged in organic farming and inform other farmers about the methods they used. The team also wanted to encourage the curiosity of children about the benefits of organic farming. Another aim was to save lost varieties of precious plants and herbs in India and to spread awareness among the farmers about them.

He has travelled through almost 19 states; completed 40 Shodh Yatras; studied 6 crore plants and planted 5200 varieties of plants in the nursery 'Qureshi Baug' in last 20 years. He has also now started searching for Hakims and Gardeners over the age of 90 during his Yatras and has made it a point to meet retired agriscientists of various Universities to gain more knowledge from them.

He also grows organic Kesar Mangoes in his 10 acre land which are much in demand at National and International level. He also continues to work gratuitously on research on herbs which are believed to alleviate and cure various diseases.

He has trained nearly 10,000 farmers and a number of students. Almost 1 lakh visitors visit his nursery every year. He treats the workforce at his nursery as part of his extended family taking care of their food, clothing and even education of their children.

He has been conferred with Krishi Samrat Samman - 2015 for his exceptional collection of 5200 types of plants in his nursery; Ayurveda Ratna Award - by the Government of India for his research on medicinal herbs as he urges farmers to preserve their heritage and strive for quality and not quantity.

Maharana Mewar Foundation National Annual Award titled Maharana Udai Singh Award - 2018 is conferred to Mr. Gafarbhai Qureshi for his work of permanent value in protecting and enriching the environment, hand - in – hand with future development.

Panna Dhai Award
(Instituted in 1997-98)

In former times it was usual to engage a lady who was nursing her newborn child to supplement the feeding of another infant whose mother was unable to do so. Such a lady in Mewar was known as 'Dhai' (foster mother). In the House of Mewar the privilege of being appointed a Dhai had long been in existence and selection was usually restricted to a particular community.

In AD 1535 Rana Vikramaditya was assassinated by Banveer. Kunwar Udai Singh, the rightful successor to the Gaddi, was an infant at the time. Banveer, who was an outsider, wanted to usurp the Gaddi of Mewar and remove all impediments including young Kunwar Udai Singh.

Kunwar Udai Singh had a Dhai called Panna, who had her own infant son, Chandan. She was deeply devoted to both and lovingly brought them up as her own children. Panna Dhai was fully conscious of the evil intentions of Banveer and was extremely careful and protective of her ward, knowing the serious consequences lest anything happened to the future successor of Mewar.

One night, Banveer, with naked sword in hand, managed to enter the quarters of Kunwar Udai Singh, determined to eliminate the last hurdle in his desperate quest for succession. Panna Dhai had suspected his malicious intentions and while both the infants were asleep that night, she placed her own child in the bed of Kunwar Udai Singh. On entering, Banveer saw an infant sleeping and demanded to know where was Kunwar Udai Singh, Panna Dhai pointed out Kunwar Udai Singh's bed on which she had placed her own son, Chandan. Without hesitation Banveer assassinated the innocent child. Thereafter Panna Dhai discreetly smuggled Kunwar Udai Singh out in a basket and only after some time they managed to reach Kumbhalgarh Fort safely. When the nobility and people came to know the facts, they promptly forced Banveer out of Chittor and instituted Udai Singh as Rana, thus ensuring the unbroken lineage of the House of Mewar.

Words can never encapsulate the intense dilemma, immense trauma and enormous personal sacrifice of Panna Dhai. Her prodigious and fierce loyalty extended far beyond any call of duty. The House of Mewar will always be indebted to Panna Dhai. Her unparalleled sacrifice has immortalised her in the annals of history and she shall be forever revered.

Panna Dhai Award is a National Award. The award has been instituted to honour an individual who has rendered selfless service, rising beyond the call of duty and setting an example to society of permanent value through sacrifice, in the face of immense hostility.
This National Annual Award comprises:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash award of ` 1,00,001

Mr. Salim Gafur Sheikh and Mr. Harsh Desai, this is the story of a courageous bus driver from Gujarat, Mr. Salim Gafur Sheikh and the unsung hero of the Amarnath Yatra terror attack, Mr. Harsh Desai, son of the bus owner, who between them saved 52 Amarnath pilgrims from a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on 10th July 2017.

On the first Monday of the month of Shraavana, Hindu civilian pilgrims were on the way from Amarnath Temple when they were attacked by terrorists. It was due to the remarkable courage and presence of mind shown by Salim and Harsh that many lives were saved in the attack.

Mr. Sheikh, the driver of the 56 seater bus from Valsad, Gujarat was carrying 60 pilgrims from Srinagar to Jammu, showed extraordinary bravery when a group of terrorists surrounded the bus and started firing indiscriminately around 8.20 pm near Batengoo in Kashmir's Anantnag District. He continued to drive at full speed for more than 2 kms, with a flat tyre, in pitch darkness through a hail of bullets. He only applied brakes to the bus after reaching a military camp, from the site where they were ambushed, saving 52 pilgrims who were in the bus. As Mr. Sheikh ducked to save himself, three bullets hit Mr. Desai, who was sitting by his side. Though Mr. Desai collapsed he pressed Mr. Sheikh to keep on driving to the safe camp despite the sound of gunfire as they realised it was a terrorist attack.

Recently Mr. Salim Sheikh was awarded with 'Uttam Jeevan Raksha Padak'- 2017, the 2nd highest honour given to civilians for gallantry after the Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak for bravery by the Union Home Ministry, Government of India.

Maharana Mewar Foundation National Annual Award titled Panna Dhai Award - 2018 is conferred to Mr. Salim Sheikh and Mr. Harsh Desai in recognition of their rendering selfless service, rising beyond the call of duty and sets an example in society of permanent value through sacrifice, in the face of immense hostility.

Maharishi Harit Rashi Award
(Instituted in 1980-81)

The world famous Maharishi Harit Rashi was the Guru of Bappa Rawal. He was an Acharaya of the Lakulish sect and a great devotee of Shree Eklingnath ji. Bappa Rawal came from Vallabhipur, now in the state of Gujarat, India. He was one of the students at the Ashram of Maharishi Harit Rashi near the village of Kailashpuri, 20 kilometres from Udaipur. He was totally dedicated to his Guru who recognised in him certain inherent qualities and values which ought to be present in a leader. Before he left for his heavenly abode he selected Bappa Rawal amongst all his students to be entrusted with the responsibility of the right to worship and administer, as Diwan, the land on behalf of Shree Eklingnath ji. He bestowed upon his favourite student the Kingdom of Mewar and formulated the directions and the cardinal rules of governance of his State. Thereafter Bappa Rawal became the founding father of the House of Mewar early in the 8th century.

Thus the Kingdom of Mewar and the concept of trusteeship came into being as a consequence of a religious blessing fourteen hundred years ago. The founding of the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation in 1969 is part of the obligation of the Institution of Maharana.

Maharishi Harit Rashi Award is a State Award. This award has been instituted to honour scholars for work of permanent value in awakening society through the medium of vedic culture, the ancient 'Shastras' and 'Karma Kand'.
This Annual State Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash Award of ` 51,001 each*.
* No. of recipients will be decided by the selection committee.

Dr. Sandeep Joshi was born on the 19th August 1978 at Kherwara, Udaipur, Rajasthan. He is a well - known for his oriental research and the preservation of Indian Heritage and ancient literature.

He gained a Ph.D. from Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeetha, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh on the topic of Zoological aspects in Sanskrit literature - 2005. Through his research work he has shown that India was the first country in the world where a scientific and systematic study of animals was conducted thousands of years before the evolution of Zoological science in the western world.

He has worked as Assistant Professor at the Research Centre of Jagadpura Ramandacharya Rajasthan Sanskrit University, Jaipur since 2006 when he published a rare unknown Sanskrit Manuscripts and has done remarkable work on ancient Indian Equinology (The Science of Horses). He has published an illustrated Sanskrit manuscript of Ashvashastra which is a brief compendium of important facts of Equinology based on the works of ancient Indian Equinologists including Sahailihotra, Nakula, Graga. This work has already earned him world-wide popularity and spread the knowledge of ancient Indian Science of horses across the world.

Recognising the need to present the ancient Indian wisdom of Sanskrit in a simplified way to the contemporary world, he has worked on the first illustrated version of Shri - Durga - Saptashati which is embossed with original Gold Metal and made a Shree Yantra with original gems including Rubies, Pearls, Red Coral, Emeralds, Yellow Sapphires, Diamonds, Blue Sapphires, Hessonite and Cat's eye. The weight of world's biggest Durgasaptashati is 30 kg. The book was released by the Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji on the 21st January 2016. This book, with its original Sanskrit text, 575 old rare paintings, is translated into English and Hindi and is a perfect example of how our ancient knowledge and wisdom should be presented so that it becomes relevant and beneficial today.

He has also co - authored book titled 'Gyan - Sagar', published by Hind Pocket Books, Delhi. This book is the best example of how religion, the scriptures, philosophy, culture and spirituality should be easily accessible not only to academics but to people at every level of society.

Through his work Dr. Joshi wants to spread the ancient knowledge and wisdom of Sanskrit in a simplified way to the entire world.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award entitled Maharishi Harit Rashi Award - 2018 is conferred to Dr. Sandeep Joshi for his distinguished work of permanent value in awakening society through the medium of vedic culture and the ancient 'Shastras'.

Pandit (Dr.) Chandrakant Purohit (Munshi) was born on 22nd November 1957 in Udaipur, Rajasthan.

He gained M.A. in Shiksha Shastri, B.Ed and Ph.D during his career.

He is a retired teacher. His pioneering works include Karma Kand and Jyotish Vidhya from last 28 years.

He has received many awards in recognition of his unfailing contribution in public recognition of valuable services to the community as a teacher of outstanding merit. These include Global Teacher Role Model Award - 2016; National Teachers Award - 2007 at New Delhi; State and District level Awards; Purohit Ratna appreciation certificate and has received several felicitation certificates from various institutions and organisations like Lions Club, Udaipur; Nimbark Vedic Sanskrit Samiti, Udaipur; Rotary Club, Udaipur etc.

His publications include Maharana Pratap; Rajasthan Upanayas Sahitya; Meera Bai ka Itihaas; Sanskrit Sudha for Class VIII; Sanskrit Prashan Manjusha for Class VI; Pushpanjali (Sanskrit Sahitya).

He is a multi faceted personality who has given his introduction of brilliancy in the field of academics; extra - curricular and administrative field.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Maharishi Harit Rashi Award - 2018 is conferred to Pandit (Dr.) Chandrakant Purohit for his distinguished work of permanent value in awakening society through the medium of 'Karma Kand'.

Maharana Mewar Award
(Instituted in 1981-82)

Since the time Bappa Rawal became the first Diwan of Shree Eklingnath ji all subsequent Maharanas of Mewar have considered it their proud and honourable privilege to uphold this mantle. The Maharanas, simply as custodians of the State, remained spiritual and temporal heads of Mewar.

With the amalgamation of the State in 1947 and subsequent constitutional amendment of 1971, His late Highness Maharana Bhagwat Singh Mewar strongly felt and categorically stated that merely the geographic boundaries of the state of Mewar had been done away with. Furthermore he felt that now the role of Mewar was enhanced because there was no longer a confinement to the area of service. The functions and duties based on Vedic principles of the Maharana should now be institutionalised.

Under the changed circumstances, in order to continue and immortalise the name, duties and functions of Maharana, he had to reshape his role, within the four corners of law, and therefore decided to transfer his personal and individual rights, as a Maharana into the Institution of Maharana. He had to find new ways to enable him and his successive custodians to continue to perform their duties in perpetuity as Diwan of Shree Eklingnath ji. He thus converted the Institution of Maharana into a juristic person despite the events of 1947 and 1971. His solution was based on that fact no one, or any law or any Constitution, can debar man from performing his duties to serve society.

Maharana Mewar Award is a State Award. This award has been instituted to honour work of permanent value to those who consider it their duty, like the Diwan of Shree Eklingnath ji, to serve society through services in the field of education, literature, social services, philanthropy and character building activities. The Institution of Mewar, in contemporary times therefore still remains a manifestation of rulership in the form of trusteeship.
This Annual State Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash Award of ` 51,001 each*.

Ms. Raspreet Sidhu is 28 years old and has been playing for the Indian National Women's Basketball team since 2004 and has had eyes only for the India Jersey. After more than 13 years with the team, it would be fair to say the blue Jersey well and truly belongs to her. Her family has always been her pillar of strength supporting her in whatever she wanted to do. This has been fundamental to her success because of the many challenges she has had to face including criticism after she decided to take up sports as a career.

She also worked with the National Basketball Association of America as a member of Basketball Federation of India for the first ever 'Basketball without Borders' organized in New Delhi, India.

She has represented Indian Women Basketball team at the 1st FIBA Asia Cup held at Bengaluru, India - 2017; represented Indian Women Basketball team at the South Asian Games held at Guwahati, India - 2016; awarded Gold Medal at the 1st South Asian Beach games, Hambantota, Sri Lanka - 2011; Captained Delhi University and awarded Gold Medal in the North Zone Inter University held at Marthal, Haryana - 2011 and declared Best Player of the Tournament.

She has been recognized as a Level 1 Coach of FIBA (Federation of International Basketball Association) and India won the Division B Championship, qualifying for Division A of the FIBA Asia Cup for the first time.

Presently she is working as a Director of Sports for Shiv Nadar Schools at Shiv Nadar Foundation, New Delhi.

She is captain of the Indian Basketball Women's Team.

She wants to draw attention to the importance of sports in women's empowerment especially the lack of professional opportunities for women athletes in India. She believes that sports are definitely more important for girls because it gives them the confidence to face the male-dominated world, where they will have an equal say. As a girl, she can say from her experience that if you taste success at an early age, it makes you believe that you can be successful in whatever you do irrespective of the gender bias.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Maharana Mewar Award - 2018 is conferred to Ms. Raspreet Sidhu for her distinguished service of permanent value to serve the society in the field of education, social services and character building activities.

Prof. Satyavrat Shastri born on 29th September 1930 is a highly decorated Sanskrit scholar, writer, grammarian and poet from India.

He gained a BA (Hons), MA in Sanskrit from the Punjab University; PhD from the Banaras Hindu University and Gold Medallist in BA (Hons) and MA He broke all previous records in BA (Hons) and was consistently top rank holder up to Post - Graduation and won University Medals.

He is currently an honorary professor at the Special Centre for Sanskrit Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi and is working on a multi volume Sanskrit Mahakavya on the principal cultural currents of the Worlds. He was Head of the Department of Sanskrit and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Delhi, where he was the Pandit Manmohan Nath Dar Professor of Sanskrit (1970 - 1995).

He is known not only as a creative writer, a critic and a travelogue writer but also a translator and has the authority of expertise on both the systems of Sanskrit education, traditional and modern. He is one of the few scholars of sanskrit in the country who have made a mark in both the widely different fields of critical scholarship and creative compositions.

He has written three Mahakavyas, three Khandakavyas, one Prabandhakavyas and one Patrakavya and five works in critical writing in Sanskrit. His important works Ramakirtimahakavyam, Brahattaram Bharatam, Sribodhisattvacharitam, Vaidika Vyakarana, Sarmanyadesah Sutram Vibhati, and "Discovery of Sanskrit Treasures" in seven volumes is documentary evidence of his unique contribution to the cause of National Integration.

He has also written many important poetic works in Sanskrit, the most important being his rendition from Royal Thai into Sanskrit, of the Thai version of the Ramayana, viz., Sri-rama - kirti - maha - kavyam, upon royal request, and with a Foreword by the Princess of Thailand. He also wrote Sanskrit epics on such diverse personalities as Lord Buddha and Guru Govind Singh another proof of his multi - cultural approach of our great nation.

He is the first recipient of the Jnanpith Award in Sanskrit - 2009; Padma Shri - 2009 and Padma Bhushan Award - 2010 for literature and education.

He is the recipient of 97 honors and Awards including Royal Decoration 'Most Admirable Order of the Direk Gunabhorn, 3rd Class' from his Majesty the King of Thailand - 2015; honour from Mihai Eminescu International Academy, Bucharest, Romania - 2001; Samskritasuddhanidhi Sammana- 2015 from International Society for Educational Research and Training, Tripati; Vishwa Kavi Samsada Sammana, Samskar Bharati, Goa - 2015; Valmiki Sammana, The Ramayana Research Foundation, Bangalore - 2015 etc.

He was also described as 'a living legend in the field of Sanskrit' in the Citation for the Honorary Doctorate at the Silpakorn University, Bangkok.

In his advanced in age, he remains full of energy and is working simultaneously on three projects: Rama Story in Southeast Asia, Hindu Temples of Thailand and Sanskrit Place Names in Southeast Asia, a region he has toured extensively and of which he has intimate knowledge. He is also working on a multi-volume Sanskrit Mahakavya, the Visvamahakavyam, on the principal cultural currents of the world.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Maharana Mewar Award - 2018 is conferred to Prof. Satyavrat Shastri for his distinguished service of permanent value to serve the society in the field of education, literature, social services, philanthropy and character building activities.

Mr. Aabid Surti, born on 5th May 1935 at Vavera near Rajula City, Gujarat, India. He gained a Diploma in Arts from J.J. Institute of Fine Art in 1960.

Besides being a writer in Hindi and Gujarati, he is also an expert in Urdu. He started his career as a free-lance. He has also been writing for Hindi and Gujarati newspapers and magazines for over 40 years.

He has won critical acclaim for multiple creative talents in India and abroad as a painter; author; cartoonist; journalist; environmentalist; playwright and screen writer besides being a 'one - man' NGO out to 'save every drop of water'. The list of his creative accomplishments befits half a dozen people rather than one individual.

He launched Drop Dead Foundation in the year 2007 with a tagline “save every drop, or drop dead”, after a leaking faucet at a friend's house bothered him so much that in a moment of epiphany, he determined that he would work to stop the overflowing water tanks and dripping taps. The aim of the Foundation is to fix leaky taps and also to stop the overflowing and dripping water tanks to help save water. Since then, his team (consisting of a plumber, a volunteer, and himself) makes the round every Sunday fixing plumbing leaks by going door - to - door in fixing faucets in people's homes free of cost in Mumbai Suburbs and has helped in saving millions of litres of water.

He has spoken about water conservation at various Conservation Conferences and his work is now recognized not only in India but Internationally. A television channel from Berlin gave a 10 minutes slot to the Drop Dead Foundation, airing the programme all over Europe as well. He also run campaigns to motivate school children by visiting schools. Annually, he visits an average of 1600 homes and fixes around 400 leaky taps and saving around 414000 litres water.

As National Award - winning author in 1999 he has written short stories, novels, plays, children's books, cartoons and travelogues which have been translated into almost every Indian dialect. He is one of the several highest selling authors of National Book Trust, India.

He was also awarded the Hindi Sahitya Sanstha Award by the Uttar Pradesh Government and was given as award by the Gujarat Government for his children's literary work Rangat.

An accomplished painter, he has held 16 exhibitions in India and abroad. In his early years, he invented an innovative technique called 'mirror collage' which won critical acclaim in Japan. In 1971, the Indian government commissioned a short film 'ABID' to showcase his creative work.

As a cartoonist, he created the lovable simpleton 'Dhabbuji'. The highly original and popular cartoon strip has been one of the longest - running comic strips in India, running without a break for over 30 years. Reprints of the original series continue to entertain millions in various. He has also created another popular comic book character, 'Bahadur,' which achieved cult status in 1970s and 1980s. In 1993, the Indian government conferred a National Award upon him.

As a screenwriter he has been associated with directors like Shri Raj Kapoor and Shri Raj Khosla on film projects and as a playwright, he has penned seven plays.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Maharana Mewar Award - 2018 is conferred to Mr. Aabid Surti for his distinguished service of permanent value to serve the society in the field of education, social services, philanthropy and character building activities.

Maharana Kumbha Award
(Instituted in 1980-81)

Maharana Kumbha (A.D. 1433-1468) was one of the most distinguished Maharanas of Mewar. It is evident from inscriptions on stone found widely that he was considered a brilliant administrator, brave warrior, great architect, builder of impregnable forts and palaces , philanthropist as well as being benevolent towards his people. He was also proficient in art, music, a scholar of scriptures , deeply religious and a man of letters. He was a patron of excellence and during his time the State of Mewar prospered and grew in size and stature.

Amongst the greatest of greats he was a giant of a man.

Maharana Kumbha is a State Award. This award was instituted to honour works of permanent value to society through the medium of history and literature.
This Annual State Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash Award of ` 51,001 each*.

Mr. Dev Kishan Rajpurohit, a distinguished writer of Rajasthani literature from the small village of Champakhedi of District Nagaur, Rajasthan was born on 6th October 1944.

During his early career he was an Ex - member of BOS, Bikaner University, Bikaner and BOS Board of Secondary Education, Ajmer, Rajasthan. He has done a commendable work in literature and journalism.

His writings are known for remarkable clarity; subtle observation and sensitivity. His poems reflect his clear vision and deep insights. He is a gifted essay writer known for his vivid descriptions, depth of ideas and vibrant reminiscences.

A number of books have been translated in various languages including Urdu, Sanskrit; Punjabi; English and South Indian Languages. Haryana Punjabi Sahitya Academy, Chandigarh have published one his story's entitled 'Yamraja - Ka - Phaisla'.

His pioneering work comprise several publications. Included in his Rajasthani work are Novels - Suraj; Kapoot; Datar; Kishan; Khejri; Meera; Bhanwari, Stories books - Varjudi Ro Tap; Daant Kathava; He has written a Play on Seekh; His work on Hindi literature includes Novels - Triveni; Pagli; Babli, Stories book - Mamta; Kathputli, Sattire book - Minister's Bungalow; Biography on Meera Bai, Nibhand Sangrah etc.

He has edited books for Rajasthani Sahitya Class 11 and 12 which were later published by The Board of Secondary Education, Ajmer. His articles in both Hindi and Rajasthani are frequently published by The Education Department with around 400 articles appearing in highly regarded educational journals. 1500 miscellaneous composites have also appeared in different journals of India. His Granthavali of 816 pages in Rajasthani was edited by Mr. Bhawani Shankar Vyas Vinod and Granthavali (624 pages) in Hindi was edited by Mr. Farooq Afridi.

He has been awarded and honored by several literary societies. He has received Marwar Ratna under Maharaja Mansingh Sahitya Puruskar; Rajasthan Ratnakar Puruskar, Delhi; Bhimrao Award - 2000 by Bikaner Sthapana Diwas; Editing Award - 2000 by Bhagwati Prakashan, Jodhpur; Ghanshyam Das Sarraf Award - 2000 on LICHHAMI novel by Marwari Sammelan, Mumbai; Hiranand Sahittya Award - 2001, Pushkar, Jamanalal Dyama Award - 2005 on KAPOOT novel by Marwari Sammelan, Hyderabad; Shivchand Bhartiya Prose Award - 2006, JUGAT Memories by Rajasthani Baasha Sahitya evam Sanskrit Academy Bikaner.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Maharana Kumbha Award - 2018 is conferred to Mr. Dev Kishan Rajpurohit for his work of permanent to society through the medium of literature.

Maharana Sajjan Singh Award
(Instituted in 1983-84)

Although Maharana Sajjan Singh (A.D. 1874-1884) passed away prematurely at a very young age, his achievement and contributions to the State of Mewar were unparalleled. He provided electrification and piped drinking water and established a municipal council in the city of Udaipur. He created the Sajjan Niwas Garden and employed foreign gardeners to cultivate it. He personally drew maps and drawings of buildings he designed and constructed which astonished qualified engineers.

Maharana Sajjan Singh founded a printing press called 'Sajjan Mudranalaya' and 'Sajjan Kirti Sudhakar', a weekly journal was published from there. A library was created, under the guidance of 'Kavi Raja Shamaldasji' in the palace grounds of 'Sajjan Vani Vilas', where several academic collections in Sanskrit, Hindi and English were maintained.

It was here that Kavi wrote one of the most important works on Mewar history called 'Veer Vinod' and organised weekly poetry readings. Learned scholars who visited Udaipur during his time were given great respect and support. He was greatly influenced by Swami Dayanand Saraswati and accepted to become Chairman of the 'Arya Samaj's Representative Council'.

Maharana Sajjan Singh Award is a State Award. This award was instituted to honour work of permanent value to society through the medium of paintings, fine art, sculpture, architecture and craft.
This Annual State Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash Award of ` 51,001 each*.
* No. of recipients will be decided by the selection committee.

Mr. Abhishek Joshi, born on 30th April 1975 comes from a lineage of Phad artist in Shahpura, Bhilwara, Rajasthan. He graduated in Arts from Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati University, Ajmer in 1997. He is Master in the traditional craft called 'Phad' and has dedicated his work to this art since 1986.

More than 700 years old, phad originated in the Bhilwara region of Rajasthan and owes its popularity to its accompanying oral tradition. The Shahpura's Traditional Phad Painting has its unique place in the world of Indian arts. This art form is very famous both in India and Internationally.

The Joshi families of Bhilwara, Shahpura in Bhilwara district are widely known as the traditional artists of this folk art - form for the last two centuries.

The Phad is a religious scroll painting practiced in Rajasthan. It is traditionally done on a long piece of cloth or canvas, known as Phad. Narratives of folk deities of Rajasthan are depicted relating to the life of incarnations, Folk Gods and heroes of the country. The Bhopas, priest - singers traditionally carried the painted Phads along with them and used them as mobile temples of the folk deities. There is a set pattern as to how the characters are placed and the colour scheme. Every available inch of the canvas is filled in with figures. Another characteristic is the flat construction of the pictorial space and the figures in the paintings do not face the audience; rather they face each other. The colours used in phad are painstakingly extracted from natural sources like stones, flowers and herbs.

Mr. Joshi has participated in a number of exhibitions in India including Rashtriya Kala Utsav, Chitra Kala Kumbh and has won many awards and accolades for his commendable work in Phad painting.

Presently researching the history of Mewar from books and journals he is depicting the history of Mewar by portraying inimitable episodes of heroism; sacrifice; courage; bravery; traditions and cultures into a unique 60 feet x 10 feet long Phad painting.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Maharana Sajjan Singh Award - 2018 is conferred to Mr. Abhishek Joshi for his work of permanent to society through the medium of Phad paintings.

Dagar Gharana Award
(Instituted in 1981-82)

Dhrupad and Dhammar are a very ancient style of Gayaki which occupies an important place in the world of Indian classical music. Ustad Ruidas Dagar was the first known exponent of this form of Gayaki. He was a very famous singer in the court of the Mughal Emperors. His successors continued to perform and adopted the Dhrupad and Dhammar as their personal style of Gayaki and for nearly twenty one generations, descendants of Ustad Ruidas Dagar have continued to excel in this style to this day.

This form of music contains all the 'Nav Rasas' and therefore Dhrupad singing is also known as temple music. The singer while expounding his music enraptures the audience into a state of ecstasy. He manages to carry the soul on its way to merge with the eternal. It is this aspect that creates tranquility and complete peace of mind. A distinguished exponent of music maintains that striking a note, in absolute and total perfection, symbolizes a feeling of Nirvana.

Ustad Ruidas Dagar's family first migrated to Jaipur from Delhi and finally during Maharana Sajjan Singh's time made Udaipur their permanent home. They were given great respect and provided full patronage to continue their music in the Court of Mewar. Ustad Nasiruddin Khan Dagar, Ustad Ziauddin Khan Dagar, Ustad Nasir Moinuddin Khan Dagar, Ustad Allah Banda Khan Dagar, Ustad Zia Mohiuddin Khan Dagar, Ustad Zakruddin Khan Dagar were some of the descendants of Ustad Ruidas Dagar who excelled in this form of music.

Dagar Gharana Award is a State Award named after the illustrious House of Dagar who made Dhrupad and Dhammar Gayaki their personal and identifiable symbol of excellence in Indian classical music. This award was instituted to honour musicians for work of permanent value to society through their achievements in the field of Indian classical music, Rajasthani folk dance and music.

This Annual State Awards consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash Award of ` 51,001 each*.
* No. of recipients will be decided by the selection committee.

Shri Prashant Mallick and Shri Nishant Mallick are popularly known as 'Mallick Brothers' They belong to the illustrious music family of Darbhanga Gharana which is more than 450 years old music tradition. They represent the 13th generation of this musical lineage that has produced many musical masters.

Their training in Dhrupad music started at an early age under the tutelage of their father Pandit Prem Kumar Mallick the renowned Dhrupad vocalist. Later, they also had the privilege to learn the core of Dhrupad gayaki from their grandfather Dhrupad legend, Pandit Vidur Mallick.

Mallick Brothers are listed among the finest Dhrupad vocalists in the field of Hindustani Vocal. With the soulful voice and powerful singing style they have developed into artists of great maturity and are considered to be one of the torchbearers of the new generation in the field of Dhrupad music. The intricate Layakari (rhythmic improvization) in various meter (laya), along with variety of subtle variations of sound and improvisations in Alap by modulation of volume and sound application is the main feature of their Vocal recital. The use of straight line Meends and Soot and various kind of Gamak elaboration keeping intact the text of the composition during their performance as per their traditional style gives an overall effect of great completeness and charm.

The Mallick Brothers are “A” Grade artists of Dhrupad music of All India Radio and Doordarshan; their programmes are regularly broadcasted from time to time on A.I.R and National Television. They have conducted several music workshops on Dhrupad / Indian Classical Music at various Universities and Institutions in India and abroad including Dhrupad music workshop at Weimar University, Germany, Centre of World Music (CWM), Hieldsheim (Germany), University of Cologne (Germany) etc. to name a few.

They performed at many prestigious music festivals all over India and abroad including Southbank Centre DARBAR Festival, London, UK - 2014; Queen Elizabeth Hall, London - 2014; WDR 3 Radio Music festival, Bielefeld, Germany - 2012; TFF World music festival Rudolstadt, Germany - 2011; Theatre De La Ville Music festival at Paris, France - 2009; DARBAR Festival at Leicester, UK - 2007; Stimmen Festival - the World Music Festival at Basel, Switzerland - 2005; The Lizard World Music Festival, London, UK - 1999 etc. In India they have participated in almost all the prestigious music festivals including 'Baba Harivallabh Sangeet Samaroh', Jalandhar; 'SAPTAK' music festival, Ahmadabad; 'TANSEN' sangeet samaroh,Gwalior; Dhrupad Utsav at Varanasi; 'Paryatan Parv' International music festival by Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India; 'PHOENIX Music festival' at Bangalore; A.I.R National Sangeet Sammellan, Bangalore; DOORDARSHAN National Programme of music, Delhi; 'TAJ Mahotsav', Agra; 'LUCKNOW Mahotsav', Lucknow; 'NCPA Music festival', Mumbai; 'PRAYAG Sangit Samiti National music and dance festival', Allahabad; 'SANGEET Pratibha festival'- Central Sangeet Natak Akademi, Gwalior, 'Jawahar Kala Kendra National festival', Jaipur, 'Anahad' music festival, New Delhi; 'SPIC - MACAY' Karnatak Virasat series programmes, Rajasthan North Virasat series programmes, Madhya Pradesh Virasat series programmes to name a few.

The Mallick Brothers have been recorded in their LIVE music concerts by Radio RBB, Berlin, BBC London, and Radio WDR3 Music, Bielefeld (Germany). They have also got an International recognition as accomplished Dhrupad singers by North American Dhrupad Association (NADA), USA.

Their awards and accolades includes "Pandit Man Mohan Bhatt Memorial Award" from Sangit Kala Niketan, Jaipur - 2017; "Dhrupad Naad Ratna" Award given by International Dhrupad Dham Trust, Jaipur - 2016; 'Tarana Samman' given by Tarana Art and Music, Delhi - 2016; Bihar Kala Puruskar 2014 - 2015; Central Sangeet Natak Akademi National Award the prestigious "Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuwa Award" 2013 - 2014; Gold Medal (Presidential Award) at the All India Radio National Music Competition in the field of Dhrupad - 2001; Surmani title winners from Sur Singer Samsad, Mumbai - 2005. They provide training to the young people in Dhrupad and have founded a Dhrupad school 'Pandit Vidur Mallick Dhrupad Academy' (a non - profit institution engaged in the service of development, propagation, and promotion of Dhrupad music).

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Dagar Gharana Award - 2018 is conferred to Shri Prashant Mallick and Shri Nishant Mallick for their achievements in the field of Indian Classical Music.

Rana Punja Award
(Instituted in 1986-87)

The name Rana Punja, who was a true son of the soil, is used with great reverence because of his contribution and service to the House of Mewar. He was the chief of his Bhil tribe and one of the most trusted leaders who fought with his fellow tribesmen along side Rana Pratap in the famous battle of Haldighati. Even after the battle of Haldighati he and his fellow tribesmen came forward frequently to assist the Maharanas maintain the freedom of Mewar.

The Bhils proved that anyone who is prepared to lay down his life to protect the independence of their mother-land does not have to belong to any particular caste or creed. The most significant implication is that lack of resource is no impediment in the path of preservation of self respect and self reliance. It further symbolises that for centuries Mewar has believed in equality amongst all men. Rana Punja and his fellow Bhils were the first tribals to be given equal status to as any other citizen of Mewar – a unique first in the history of India.

Because of such selfless devotion and loyalty the name of Punja was given a prefix of Rana which is the original form of address of the Maharana himself. The entire Bhil tribe is highly regarded by the Mewar dynasty, to the extent that at the time of succession, unless the Bhil chieftain puts a tilak with his own blood on the forehead of the person succeeding the deceased Maharana, he would not be recognised as the subsequent Maharana. According to historical evidence this tilak ceremony was performed till the reign of Rana Raj Singh I (r.1653-1680 CE).

During the British times when the coat-of-arms of Udaipur was registered with the Royal College of Heralds in London the Maharana honoured the Rajputs and the Bhils, in recognition of their joint contribution by accepting the coatof- arms of the state of Mewar depicting them both standing on either side of the shield which shows the fort of Chittorgarh. This implied that the presence on the coat-of-arms of the House of Mewar is not only acceptable but most appropriate and befitting. Furthermore, it suggested that it was the Maharana, the Rajputs and the Bhils, who collectively upheld the freedom of Chittorgarh.

Rana Punja Award is a State award. This award was instituted to honour works of permanent value to society by a person of tribal origin in commemoration of the mutual trust and continued association between the Bhil tribesmen and the House of Mewar.

This Annual State Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash Award of ` 51,001 each*.
* No. of recipients will be decided by the selection committee.

Ms. Vardi Bai is a 60 year lady, resident of Malaira Village which is situated 15 kms south of Gogunda (sub-district headquarters) and 50 kms away from district headquarters at Udaipur. The village is spread over 613 hectares of land in the mountain ranges of Aravali. It is a tribal village with a major population of the Gamaitis tribe who follow the old tradition of Caste Based Institutions called Jati Panchayat. These Jati Panchayats are very strong especially in dealing with family or social matters. However, they are completely male dominated with women excluded. It is very common for the Jati Panchayats to take unanimous decision influencing the life of the women.

Ms. Bai is the eldest child among five sons and three daughters of the second wife of her father Chatraaji. At the age of 16 she was married to Maanaaji and became the fourth wife and life- long support to Maanaaji after the loss of his other three wives life. She has two sons and two daughters and takes care to ensure that her grandchildren are not deprived of education. She has become leader of Social Change in the society.

She was inspired to become a member of the women`s group promoted by Seva Mandir, Udaipur in 1990. Her active participation and efforts in social and development activities were soon recognized by Seva Mandir and appointed her as a member of Gram Vikas Committee in 1993. She now devotes a great deal of time volunteering to help with welfare activities in her village.

It was never 'a bed of roses' for Ms. Vardi Bai in the hilly terrain of the Aravali. Problems were numerous, solutions often few. To include successful outcomes from her efforts it is notable to mention her contribution in making a place for women in the Jati Panchayat, she has helped organise training women clusters through women training centres, filling gender gaps through increased women participative actions; prohibiting liquor consumption by men and women in the village; women's empowerment; income generation; overcoming caste based inequality and unjust practices; ensuring a better livelihood and working hard towards opposing the practice of polygamy.

She has also played an important role in removing encroachments for the protection and development of village pastureland. She was the first women of her village who took a stand against the issue of Jati Panchayats and has positively influenced the reduction of the practice of polygamy in villages.

She is now efficiently heading and organizing Women's Resource Centre at Panchayat Maada in village of Malaira where people can come for legal advice from other villages.

She has set her sights high now and believes that "a woman can feel confident and positive about her problems. She would like to see more women participating and an even stronger response to vehemently opposing and eradicating the curse of Polygamy. She believes that there should be two very simple elements which are awareness and education.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Rana Punja Award – 2018 is conferred to Ms. Vardi Bai for contributing permanent values to society in the tribal area.

Aravali Award
(Instituted in 1983-84)

Aravali range of mountains stretches, with its rugged terrain, from beyond the southern part of Mewar right across western Rajasthan ending almost near Delhi. With their vast mineral wealth and strategically positioned fortresses, the Aravali range of mountains has played an important role in local history. The Aravalis have also been the home of the brave Bhil tribes who were loyal followers of the Maharanas for centuries.

The award is named after these mountains in recognition of the prosperity derived and protection provided by this mountain range in the State of Mewar.

Aravali Award is a State Award. This award is instituted to honour and encourage outstanding sportsperson for achieving distinction in any discipline of sports and games.
This Annual State Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. Cash Award of ` 51,001 each*.
* No. of recipients will be decided by the selection committee.

Mr. Himanshu Lamba is a National and International, Roll Ball player who comes from Jhotwara, Jaipur, Rajasthan. He was born on 22nd October 1998.

He was the highest scorer in the 3rd South Asian Roll Ball Championship held at Kathmandu, Nepal at International Level; where he represented India from 29th - 30th December 2017 and India secured 1st position.

Presently he is Captain of Rajasthan University and won bronze this year at All India University Games.

He has played a total of 8 National tournaments in which he has won 2 Gold medal; 2 Bronze medal and 3 Silver medal and also played 7 State tournaments and represented Jaipur and won 6 Gold and Bronze medals.

He participated in various National tournaments including 7th Junior Roll Ball National Championship, Indore - 2013 and secured 1st position; 8th Roll Ball National Championship - 2014 and secured 2nd position; 13th Senior Roll Ball National Championship, Pune - 2016 and got 3rd position; 14th Senior Roll Ball National Championship, Belgium - 2017 and secured 3rd position etc.

Presently he is pursuing 2nd year in Bachelors of Commerce from St. Xavier's College, Jaipur, Rajasthan.

He is a passionate sports person with courage, enthusiasm and strong commitment to perform at the highest level and a source of inspiration to many young people in the country.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Aravali Award - 2018 is conferred to Mr. Himanshu Lamba for achieving distinction in Roll Ball.

Mr. Mihir Soni born on 28th December 1999 from Udaipur, Rajasthan and has been Powerlifting for the last 5 years.

This Powerlifter from Udaipur has won 4 Gold Medals in Commonwealth Sub – Junior Category of the Commonwealth Powerlifter Championship held in South Africa - 2017 and also became the 1st Boy of India to achieve 'Best Lifter' title in 2017 Commonwealth Games a great achievement and 'feather in the cap' for the Udaipur city.

He has also been awarded the title of 'Strong Man' for the last 3 years in Sub - Junior Rajasthan Powerlifting Games.

He won Gold medal in the 59 kg category in the recently concluded National Sub - Junior Power Lifting Championship held in Chandrapur, Maharashtra; won Gold medal and made 2 new State records in Rajasthan Junior Powerlifting Championship held at Udaipur in 2017.

He has received Certificate of Honour in various championships organized by Indian Powerlifting Federation recognized by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, New Delhi at Chandrapur - 2017; Rajasthan State Powerlifting Association recognized by Rajasthan State Sports Council at Udaipur - 2017.

He has secured 1st position in the 59 Kg weight class in the Rajasthan State Sub - Junior Men and Women Powerlifting Championship held at Alwar - 2017; secured 1st position in 59 Kg weight class in the Rajasthan State in Sub - Junior Men and Women Powerlifting Championship held at Udaipur - 2016.

Presently he is pursuing 2nd year in Bachelors of Commerce from Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan. He is a passionate sports person and is a motivational force to the youth of India and made not only Udaipur but also India proud of his outstanding achievements.

Maharana Mewar Foundation Annual Award titled Aravali Award - 2018 is conferred to Mr. Mihir Soni for outstanding achievement in Powerlifting.

Maharana Mewar Special Award - Best Police Station of Rajasthan
(Instituted in 2007-08)

Maharana Mewar Special Award was instituted in 2007-08. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed on 22nd February 2008 between the Maharana of Mewar Charitable Foundation (MMCF), Udaipur and the Department of Police, Government of Rajasthan, Jaipur. It was agreed that the Department of Home Affairs, Government of Rajasthan would select the best police station in Rajasthan each year and that the Foundation would bestow a Maharana Mewar Special Award at the Annual Awards Distribution Ceremony in recognition of its achievement.

This Maharana Mewar Special Award consists of:
1. A Ceremonial Shawl.
2. A 'Toran' plaque of honour.
3. A Citation Certificate.
4. A Commemorative Medal.
5. Cash award of ` 25,001
This year the award will be given to the Police Station Makbara, Kota.

Bhamashah Award

is a State award to honour excellence in students chosen from amongst all the Universities of Rajasthan. 23 students received this award for the academic year 2016-2017.

Maharana Raj Singh Award

is a city of Udaipur award. This award was instituted to honour deserving students of universities based within the municipal limits of Udaipur and also students from those colleges who are affiliated to these universities, but are located outside Udaipur, for distinguished achievements in Games and sport, and Cultural, literary, co-curricular and extracurricular activities conducted by a recognised body. 17 students received this award for the academic year 2016-2017.

Maharana Fateh Singh Award

is a city of Udaipur Award honouring those students who have passed the exams of Central Board of Secondary Education and Board of Secondary Education, Rajasthan from Secondary and Senior Secondary schools located within municipal limits of Udaipur. 76 students received this award for the academic year 2016-2017.