Hate Watch

NEW DELHI : A Muslim family visiting the popular Naneghat Reverse Waterfalls in Maharashtra has alleged that they were subjected to Islamophobic harassment by a group of Hindutva supporters during their outing. The incident reportedly took place while the family, including children, was enjoying the scenic tourist destination, which is known for its natural beauty, ancient trade route, and historical significance. According to the report, the group of supporters began singing a few lines from "Haldighati," a poem based on the historic Battle of Haldighati, while standing near the family. The verses recited were: "Goonj uthi hai Haldighati Ghodon ke in taapon se; Veeron ki ye sena lekar, Rana ladta Mughalon se" "The echoes of Haldighati resound with the thunder of horses’ hooves; leading this army of brave warriors, Rana fights against the Mughals." The lines translate to: The family was reportedly left visibly uncomfortable by the incident. No official complaint or police statement regarding the matter had been reported at the time of publication. The poem "Haldighati" was written by Shyam Narayan Pandey, a noted Hindi poet and author of the 1940s. It celebrates the valour of Maharana Pratap, the ruler of Mewar, and his horse Chetak during the Battle of Haldighati. Pandey is also known for "Jauhar," a folk-style work depicting the story of Rani Padmini of Chittor. The Battle of Haldighati was fought on June 18, 1576, between Maharana Pratap and the forces led by Raja Man Singh I of Amber, who fought on behalf of Mughal Emperor Akbar, in the Haldighati pass of the Aravalli range in present-day Rajasthan. The incident has drawn attention on social media, with users calling for communal harmony and respectful conduct at public tourist destinations.