Exclusive | Five colours, one city: Why Jaipur Polo wears the 'Pachranga'
Jaipur, the Pink City, is not only known for its stunning architecture and rich history but also for its deep-rooted connection to the sport of polo. The Jaipur Polo Team, a symbol of royal heritage and sporting excellence, carries this legacy forward, most visibly through their distinctive 'Pachranga' jersey. The five colours are more than just an aesthetic choice; they represent a rich tapestry of history, victory, and the enduring spirit of Jaipur.
The story of the 'Pachranga' is interwoven with the tale of Raja Man Singh of Amer, a distinguished general under Mughal Emperor Akbar in the late 1500s. His military campaigns in Afghanistan proved crucial for the Mughal Empire's expansion and brought considerable honor to Rajputana. Upon his victorious return, Man Singh brought with him five flags, each captured from different Afghan tribal groups as a symbol of his triumph. These flags were then merged with the traditional white banner of the Amer state, creating the 'Pachranga Jhanda', which translates to "five-coloured flag".
Each of the five colours holds its own significance, although the specific meanings have evolved over time. The 'Pachranga' flag served as a reminder of Jaipur's influence in international campaigns, especially in Afghanistan. A smaller version of the flag was raised at the City Palace whenever the Maharaja was present, signifying the royal presence. The flag also holds religious significance and is hoisted at temples during specific rituals and festivals. Today, it is displayed at historical sites, most notably at the City Palace of Jaipur, as a timeless icon of Rajput valor.
The Jaipur Polo Team, founded in the early 1900s by Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II, embraced the 'Pachranga' as a representation of the city's identity. The team quickly rose to prominence, dominating both national and international polo circuits. From 1930 to 1938, the Jaipur Polo Team had an unbeatable record, winning all the open tournaments in the United Kingdom as well as the Indian polo championship. The team's achievements brought international recognition to Indian polo, making Jaipur a global polo destination.
In recent years, the Jaipur Polo Team has experienced a resurgence under the leadership of HH Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh, affectionately known as "Pacho". Continuing the legacy of his great-grandfather, Pacho is not only revitalizing the team but also working to make polo more inclusive through the Sawai Man Singh Polo Academy. The 'Pachranga' jersey, worn with pride by the team, serves as a constant reminder of the rich heritage they represent.
The 'Pachranga' is more than just a symbol on a jersey; it's a reminder of Jaipur's glorious past, its vibrant present, and its promising future in the world of polo. As the Jaipur Polo Team continues to compete and inspire, the five colours will undoubtedly continue to wave as a symbol of pride, tradition, and the sporting spirit of the Pink City.
