Chittorgarh Fort is the pride of Rajasthan’s valiant past. It still basks in the glory of Rajputana valor and bravery that it has been known for. Built in 7th century B.C., this fort is named after Rajput Chieftain Chitrang. Chittorgarh was the capital of Mewar from 8th to 16th century. The history of this town is written in blood & sacrifice. The land still resonates with the echo of the Jauhar committed by Rajput Ladies. In the middle of the 15th century, Chittorgarh gained eminence when the legendary Rajput ruler, Rana Kumbha, ascended the throne. He built the Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) to commemorate his victory over Mahmud Khilji, the ruler of Malwa, in 1440. Further, Maharana Udai Singh - II, the ruler of Chittorgarh, re-established his rule at Udaipur. A fair is celebrated here every year in the month of March-April to celebrate the victorious sacrifice of Rajput Princesses in the act of Jauhar.
History of Chittorgarh
The Kingdom of Mewar was founded by Bappa Rawal, of the Guhilot (or Gehlot/Guhila) clan of Rajputs, who established himself as ruler of Mewar in 734, with Chittor garh (Chittor fort) as his capital. Chittorgarh was captured in 1303 by Ala ud din Khilji, Sultan of Delhi, but was recaptured in 1326 by Hammir Singh, a scion of the same Gehlot clan. The dynasty (and clan) fathered by him came to be known by the name Sisodia after the village where he was born.
Chittorgarh Excursions By the 16th century, Mewar had become the leading Rajput state. Rana Sangha of Mewar led a combined Rajput forces against the Mughal emperor Babur in 1527, but was defeated at the Battle of Khanua. After the Mughal Emperor Akbar captured Chittorgarh in 1568, the capital was moved west to Udaipur, in the foothills of the Aravalli Range, where Rana Udai Singh II had established a residence in 1559. Udaipur remained the capital of Mewar until it acceded unto the union of India in 1947, and Chittorgarh gradually lost its importance.
However, Chittorgarh remains replete with historic associations and hold a special place in the hearts of many Rajputs, as it was a bastion of the clan at a time when every other stronghold had succumbed to invasion.
Places of Interest
Chittorgarh Fort - FortChittorgarh Fort is a massive and majestic fort situated on a hilltop near Chittorgarh town in Rajasthan state in India. It is one of the most historically significant forts not only in Rajasthan but whole of North India.
The fort stands on top a a 180m-high hill and is on about 280 hectare site.
Places of Interest in the Fort
Rana Kumbha Palace - The largest monument of the fort, it is believed that Rani Padmini committed Jauhar, in once of these underground cellars. The palace is in ruins but generates historical as well as architectural interest.
Vijay Stambha ( Tower of victory)- Built by Rana Kumbha in 1440 , to commemorate the victory over the combined forces of the kings of neighboring Malwa and Gujarat, this tower is 120ft. (36.5mts) high and has a girth of 30 ft. at the base, the nine storied high limestone structure is richly ornamented from top to bottom.
Padmini's Palace - The palace of Rani Padmini who preferred death before dishonor, and committed Johar, along with her entire entourage before falling into the hands of Allauddin Khilji. It was here that Rana Ratan Singh allowed a glimpse of the legendary beauty to Allauddin Khilji. The Zanana Mahal overlooks the pond, Padmini stood over here and the reflection of her was shown in the water to Allauddin Khilji.
Kirti Stambha(Tower of fame)- Built iln the 12th century, dedicated to Lord Sri Adinath Rishab deo, the first Jain Tirthankar. The 22 metre high structure ils rdeplete with figures from Jain pantheon. There are several other Jain temples iln Chittaurgarh.
Meera Temple - The temple is dedicated to the mystic poetess Meera, and a devotee of Lord Krishna. Meera was born in Kurki village near Merta to Ratan Singh Rathors, and was married to Bhojraj son of Rana Sanga of Mewar.
Khumbha Shyam Temple - Thetemple dedicated to Varah (Boar), the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It was built in 1448 AD. By Rana Kumbha Mahasati cenotaphs The cremation site of the Ranas and their wives, the sites are marked with Chhatris.
Kalika Mata Temple - The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the symbol of power and valour. Situated towards the southern side of the fort, it was built by Rana Hamir.
