Chittorgarh Fort is counted among the largest forts in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, Moreover, it served as the capital of Mewar.
Chittorgarh Fort is regarded as the symbol of Rajput chivalry, resistance and bravery. The fort is situated 175 kilometer to the east of Udaipur and is believed to be named after the person who built it, Chitrangada Mori. The famous Chittorgarh fort, which is one of the largest in India, is situated on a 180 meter high hill that rises from the banks of river Berach. The fort is known for its seven gates namely Padan Gate, Ganesh Gate, Hanuman Gate, Bhairon Gate, Jodla Gate, Lakshman Gate and the main gate which is named after Lord Ram.
The Chittorgarh Fort houses many palaces, like the Rana Kumbha Palace, the Fateh Prakash Palace, the Tower of Victory, and Rani Padmini’s Palace. All these structures are significant for their Rajput architectural features. There are also many temples within the fort. A huge complex of Jain temples is a major attraction. Moreover, Chittorgarh Fort, along with other hill forts of Rajasthan was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.
Talking about Vijay Stambh it means ‘the tower of victory’. Vijay Stambh is the most impressive structure of the Chittorgarh Fort. It was constructed by Maharana Kumbha to commemorate his victory over Mohammed Khilji in the 15th century. This giant tower is nine-storied and offers a picture-perfect view of the downtown from its balconies. This huge tower extends to a height of 122 feet and a width of 47 sq ft at the base. The circular stairs of this tower have 157 steps. This imposing tower took 10 complete years to construct. Moreover, you can trace sculptures of the Hindu gods on the alcoves of this tower.
Legends of Jauhar and Rani Padmini
In 1303 Allauddin Khilji, Sultan of Delhi, intrigued by tales of the matchless beauty of Padmini, Rani of Chittor, of her wit and charm, decided to verify this himself. His armies surrounded Chittor, and the sultan sent a message to Rana Rattan Singh, Padmini’s husband, to say that he would spare the city if he could meet its famous queen. The compromise finally reached was that the sultan could look upon Padmini’s reflection if he came unarmed into the fort. Accordingly, the sultan went up the hill and glimpsed a reflection of the beautiful Padmini standing by a lotus pool. He thanked his host who courteously escorted Allauddin down to the outer gate where the sultan’s men waited in ambush to take the Rana hostage.
There was consternation in Chittor until Padmini devised a plan. A messenger informed the sultan that the rani would come to him. Dozens of curtained palanquins set off down the hill, each carried by six humble bearers. Once inside the Sultan’s camp, four well-armed Rajput warriors leaped out of each palanquin and each lowly palanquin bearer drew a sword. In the ensuing battle, Rana Rattan Singh was rescued-but 7,000 Rajput warriors died. The sultan now attacked Chittor with renewed vigor. Having lost 7,000 of its best warriors, Chittor could not hold out. Surrender was unthinkable. The rani and her entire entourage of women, the wives of generals and soldiers, sent their children into hiding with loyal retainers. They then dressed their wedding fine , slid their farewells, and singing ancient hymns, boldly entered the mahal and performed jauhar.
Jauhar Mela
Every year, a Jauhar Mela is held in Chittorgarh. This Rajput festival celebrates the anniversary of one of the jauhars. Though there’s no specific name given, it is believed that the faith commemorates Rani Padmini’s jauhar and celebrates Rajputana valor.
There is a place that is said to be where Jauhar conducted. It has also been shown in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Movie Padmawat’ But many historians and folk storytellers do not verify this story. There are some hands inscribed on the wall related to the supposed Jauhar. But there is no validation of the incident.
If you want to visit Chittorgarh Fort, you can book your ticket at any time of the year. It opened from 9:00 am to 8:30 pm however, the last entry is at 6:30 pm. The entry ticket cost only INR 20 and INR 100 to foreign tourists.