Chittorgarh: A Tale of Valor and Sacrifice
The largest living fort and one of the most important forts in India is Chittorgarh Fort (चित्तौड़गढ़ किला), which is situated in Rajasthan. It has great historical, architectural, and cultural significance and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fort was believed to have been constructed in the 7th century by the Mauryan ruler Chitrangada Mori. It served as the capital of the Mewar kingdom for centuries.
Located on the banks of the Berach River, a tributary of the Banas River, sits the fort. It was an important location for the Rajput rulers of Mewar because of its advantageous hilltop location, which offered a natural defense.
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Location
Chittorgarh is roughly 600–630 kilometres away from Delhi, depending on the exact route travelled.
By Road: Driving or taking a bus along National Highways 48 (NH48) and 58 from Delhi to Chittorgarh takes approximately 10 to 11 hours.
By Train: Depending on the service, a number of trains run between Delhi and Chittorgarh, with travel times ranging from 10 to 12 hours.
At 6:25 PM, I boarded the Mewar Express (12963) from Nizamuddin station, and it arrived at 4:45 AM the following day.
By Air: Udaipur, which is around 90 kilometres distant, has the closest airport to Chittorgarh. You can travel to Chittorgarh by bus or car from Udaipur. It takes roughly one and a half hours to fly from Delhi to Udaipur.
Important Rajasthan cities like Udaipur, Jaipur, and Jodhpur are easily accessible from Chittorgarh. You can get to your location quickly by boarding one of the state buses.
Due to its accessibility, this fort is a well-liked location for those interested in history and architecture.
Gates
You have to pass through seven magnificent gates (Pols) to get to the centre of Chittorgarh Fort. Each gate has historical significance and was essential to the fort’s defence.
Padan Pol: The first gate you came across was your first line of protection.
Bhairon Pol: This gate was named for the ferocious god Bhairon and added to the fort’s defences.
Hanuman Pol: This gate, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, gave the defenders a sense of courage & strength.
Ganesh Pol: Named for the Lord Ganesha, this gate guaranteed an easy entrance into the fort and represented the removal of barriers.
Jorla Pol: This gate added an extra degree of security because of its strong design.
Laxman Pol: This gate, which carries the name of Lord Rama’s brother, highlighted the value of fraternity and loyalty.
Ram Pol: The largest and most impressive gate, it was the fort’s primary entrance and represented fortitude and tenacity.
These gates demonstrated the might and resolve of the Rajput kings, who formerly defended this beautiful fortress by offering both physical security and psychological deterrence to intruders.
Rana Kumbha palace Complex
One of the first architectural structures one encounters when entering the Chittorgarh Fort in Rajasthan is Rana Kumbha Palace. This magnificent palace is a remarkable example of Rajput construction and is credited to Rana Kumbha, the 15th-century ruler of Mewar. The remains of enormous halls, elaborate staircases, underground dungeons, and temples inside the premises demonstrate its magnificence despite the fact that it is now in ruins.
Rana Kumbha Palace’s origins date back to the eighth century, when the Mewar dynasty’s founder, Bappa Rawal, first constructed it. However, the palace was renovated and developed into the architectural wonder that it is today under the reign of Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century, realising its full splendour with elaborate carvings, tall pillars, and expansive courtyards.
The palace has witnessed important events in the history of the Rajputs. There are many legends of Rani Padmini and other women performing Jauhar (self-immolation) in the palace cellars in 1303 AD to avoid disgrace at the hands of Alauddin Khilji’s invading army.
Moreover, the palace has a relationship to Maharana Udai Singh, who established the splendid city of Udaipur. According to legend, his brave nurse Panna Dhai saved his life by smuggling him out in a fruit basket after he was born inside the palace walls.
The renowned poetess Meerabai lived at the palace as well, and her devotion to Lord Krishna was evident even within the walls of this ancient structure.
One of the palace’s most remarkable characteristics is its array of exquisite canopied balconies, which are held up by finely carved pillars and provide a royal viewpoint for watching public events and court procedures. Suraj Pol (Sun Gate) and Tripolia Gate (Triple Gate), two magnificent entrances to the royal complex, are elaborately crafted passageways that act as doors to the lavish realm inside.
A system of interconnecting buildings with a variety of purposes was spread throughout the expansive complex. While royal women had private areas in the Zanana Mahal, or women’s quarters, princes were probably housed in the Kanwar Pada Palace. A dedicated Shiva temple within the complex represented the Mewar dynasty’s religious values, while the Suraj Gokhra functioned as a lookout point, providing expansive views of the surrounding area. Furthermore, the king met with his subjects and held court in the Diwan-e-am, or hall of public audience.
Chittorgarh Fort’s next big complex contains a number of famous sites that showcase the Mewar kingdom’s architectural, cultural, and historical diversity.
Victory Tower, also known as Vijaya Stambh or Vishnu Dwaz
The nine-story Vijaya Stambh, which is made of marble and sandstone with beautiful carvings, was built by Rana Kumbha in the 15th century to commemorate his victory against the united forces of Gujarat and Malwa. Comprising intricate sculptures of Hindu deities, inscriptions, and motifs, the tower rises to a height of 122 feet. It provides an all-encompassing perspective of the fort and its environs. Intricate sculptures and carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses, including Durga, Ganesha, Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu, adorn the tower. The tower is situated near the Jauhar sthal.
The fort has been attacked 27 times in its history, with the Rajputs winning 24 of those engagements. But they lost three major sieges, which resulted in jauhar and a great deal of sacrifice.
Chittorgarh’s jauhars continue to be a powerful symbol of Rajput bravery, pride, and tenacity. The Rajputs went to great lengths to protect their independence and honour, as demonstrated by these deeds of mass sacrifice.
Siege of Alauddin Khilji (1303 CE): In pursuit of Rani Padmini, the Delhi Sultanate, under the leadership of Alauddin Khilji, established a lengthy siege. Even though King Ratan Singh led the Rajputs in a valiant battle, treachery caused the fort to collapse. During the first jauhar, 16,000 women, under the leadership of Rani Padmini, set themselves on fire to preserve their honour.
Siege of Bahadur Shah (1535 CE): During Rana Vikramaditya’s rule, Chittorgarh was assaulted by Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat. Despite opposition, the fort was taken, and 13,000 women led by Rani Karnavati for the second jauhar. Numerous people were killed, and extensive destruction was caused by this invasion.
Siege of Akbar (1568 CE): Under Maharana Udai Singh II’s rule, Chittorgarh was assaulted by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. After a bloody battle conducted by two courageous commanders, Jaimal and Patta, the fort collapsed. Another tragic period in the fort’s history was marked by the third jauhar, 7,000 women led by Phool Kunwar. The collapse of Rajput sovereignty in Mewar was symbolised by Akbar’s conquest of Chittorgarh.
Shiva Temple of Samadheshwar
The 11th-century architectural marvel known as the Samadheshwar Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. It is nine feet tall and six feet broad, with carved images of Lord Shiva’s three-faced idol. The temple is situated inside the Chittorgarh Fort, next to the Gaumukh Reservoir, and is encircled by a calm and picturesque backdrop. Its proximity to the sacred reservoir heightens its spiritual atmosphere, making it a tranquil haven for pilgrims and visitors alike.The temple was originally built in the 11th century by King Bhoja Parmar, a prominent ruler known for his patronage of art and architecture.The outer walls of the temple are covered with exquisite sculptures, including depictions of gods, goddesses, apsaras (celestial dancers), and mythological scenes. The carvings reflect themes from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, showcasing the artistic brilliance of the time
Gaumukh Reservoir
This revered water tank has great religious significance and is supplied with water from a perennial spring that emerges from a cow-shaped rock, hence the name Gaumukh. It is regarded as a sacred spot next to the Samadheshwar Temple, where guests frequently pray and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Another essential water supply for the fort is the reservoir. A Shiva temple with beautiful stone work and elaborate carvings covering the walls and pillars is also present, constructed in the traditional North Indian manner. The temple’s main sanctum is home to a revered shivling, which is worshipped by believers.
Shyam Kumbha Temple and Meera Bai Temple in Chittorgarh Fort
Two of the most important religious buildings in the ancient Chittorgarh Fort are the Shyam Kumbha Temple and the Meera Bai Temple, which highlight the Rajputs’ devotion, architectural mastery, and cultural heritage.
Guhila Dynasty and the First Construction (8th Century CE): The Guhila rulers, the Mewar founding dynasty and ardent Hinduists, were the ones who first built the Shyam Kumbha Temple. Originally, the temple was devoted to Varaha, Lord Vishnu’s boar incarnation, who represented the divine ability to eradicate chaos from the Earth. It reflects the region’s rich Vaishnavite traditions and early period devotion to Vishnu’s avatars.
Restoration by Rana Kumbha (15th Century CE): As part of his broader endeavours to rebuild and construct other temples throughout Mewar, the visionary ruler and accomplished architect Rana Kumbha undertook substantial renovations to the temple. The temple was re-dedicated to Lord Krishna and Balram during this restoration, in keeping with the growing emphasis on Krishna devotion in the Bhakti movement. In addition, Rana Kumbha added architectural flourishes and new idols, transforming the temple into a majestic building that is a monument to Rajput artistry.The temple walls are beautifully carved with sculptures that portray Varaha, mythological tales, and events from Krishna’s life. The craftsmanship of Mewar’s artisans and their dedication to maintaining religious themes are evident in these carvings.
In the early 15th century CE, Rana Sanga, the warrior ruler of Mewar, built the Meera Bai Temple as a sign of his admiration and encouragement for Meera Bai’s devotion to Lord Krishna. Meera Bai, the wife of Bhojraj, the eldest son of Rana Sanga, was well known for her spiritual poetry and unwavering belief in Krishna.
Meera Bai had to deal with a lot of opposition in the royal household after her husband Bhojraj and father-in-law Rana Sanga passed away too soon. Her brother-in-law, Vikramaditya Singh, in particular, was against her dedication to Krishna and her refusal to follow traditional royal duties.Meera Bai eventually fled the royal house and Chittorgarh Fort because she could no longer stand the animosity and restrictions placed on her by her brother-in-law. During her spiritual pilgrimage to Vrindavan and Dwarka, she continued to sing and write devotional songs honouring Krishna. Her final years were spent in Dwarka, where, according to legend, she merged with Krishna’s idol in the temple, symbolizing her ultimate union with the divine.
Rani Padmini Palace
The Rani Padmini Palace is the next magnificent building, which is built in the centre of a lake in Chittorgarh Fort. Known for her beauty and bravery, Rani Padmini is reported to have spent four months of the year at her tranquil hideaway. The water-enclosed palace showcases the Rajput era’s strategic architecture and splendour.
One well-known historical event is the Sultan of Delhi, Alauddin Khilji, who was enchanted by tales of Rani Padmini’s unrivalled beauty. Motivated by his wish to visit her, Khilji made a polite request to Rawal Ratan Singh, the ruler of Chittorgarh and the husband of Rani Padmini. Following Rajput customs and honour, Ratan Singh permitted Khilji to see Rani Padmini’s reflection. At a distance from the palace, a tower was equipped with silver plates that reflected her appearance like a mirror. Khilji was never able to see her in person because of this arrangement.
However, this incident ignited Khilji’s desire to capture Rani Padmini and Chittorgarh. Following that, there was a bloody conflict that ended with Rani Padmini and the women of Chittorgarh performing the infamous jauhar (self-immolation), which represents their honour preservation and resistance to injustice.
Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame)
The Tower of Fame, also called Kirti Stambha, is a famous seven-story, 72-foot-tall architectural wonder that is part of the Chittorgarh fort complex in Rajasthan. Constructed in the 12th century, this majestic tower is a representation of Jain dedication and legacy. It is devoted to Jainism’s first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhnath.
During the reign of Rawal Kumar Singh, the tower was commissioned by Jeeja Bhagerwal, a wealthy Jain businessman and ardent Jainist. It was built to uphold and disseminate Lord Rishabhnath’s teachings and to further Jain philosophical ideals.
Detailed carvings and sculptures that portray scenes from Jain mythology, Tirthankara figures, and motifs signifying Jain virtues like truth and non-violence cover the entire edifice.Delicate sculptures and statues of Lord Rishabhnath and other Tirthankaras may be found within, while the external walls are lavishly decorated with inscriptions and bas-reliefs of Jain saints.
Ratan Singh Palace: The Jewel of Chittorgarh Fort
Ratan Singh Palace, a beautiful but little-known destination that provides a calm and historical atmosphere, is housed within Rajasthan’s famous Chittorgarh Fort. Often referred to as the final interesting destination after a tour of the fort, this architectural wonder is a tribute to the Rajput era’s magnificence and offers a tranquil escape from the busier parts of the complex.
Rana Sanga was the father of Maharana Ratan Singh II. After his father passed away, he ascended to the kingdom. He was the Maharana from 1527 to 1531, a very short period of time. During his lifetime, Maharana Ratan Singh II constructed a stunning palace inside the Chittorgarh fort to serve as the royal family’s winter residence. This enormous structure is plainly visible from the northern section of the Chittorgarh Fort.
It’s an incredible visit to the palace. East is the direction of the palace’s entrance gate. This enormous structure has a chattris on top and a towering archway. It is the Ratneswar Mahadeva Temple on the north side of the entryway. There is a garbagriha, a mandapa, and an antarala in the temple complex. The temple features beautiful sculptures on its outside.
The palace’s lofty walls encircle its rectangular floor plan. Numerous courtyards are surrounded by chambers, towers, deohris, and other structures. Well-kept, lush gardens can be found inside the palace. A gate on the north side of the palace leads to the private area.
A tour of this magnificent fort would not be complete without a visit to the adjacent serene lake and the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple. The palace provides a chance for visitors to Chittorgarh to relax, think, and take in the beauty of Rajasthan’s rich history.
Chittorgarh Fort Light and Sound Show: A Must-See for History Enthusiasts
Chittorgarh Fort’s Light and Sound Show is an immersive experience that vividly depicts the Mewar Dynasty’s rich past. Every evening, the Rana Kumbha Palace hosts this play, which is a must-see for tourists who wish to learn more about the tales of bravery, selflessness, and cultural legacy that characterise this famous fort.
The show regularly starts in the evening, though the exact time varies depending on the season. It provides a concise but impactful overview into Chittorgarh’s illustrious past and lasts roughly 45 to an hour.The show is typically available in Hindi, making it accessible to Indian audiences. Depending on the day, some shows may also have narration in English for international visitors.
Conclusion: Exploring the Majesty of Chittorgarh Fort
A 6- to 7-hour tour of Chittorgarh Fort is a voyage through India’s rich and heroic past, not merely a visit to a historical location. This enormous UNESCO World Heritage Site is a tribute to the great Rajputana tradition and packed with stories of bravery, selflessness, and honour.
Every area of this fort tells a tale, from the majestic Vijay Stambh, which stands for victory, to the calm Ratan Singh Palace on the placid lake. The Gaumukh Reservoir, Padmini Palace, and Kirti Stambh serve as striking relics of the architectural mastery and cultural diversity of a bygone period. A spiritual element is added to the visit by the devotion of temples such as Kalika Mata Mandir, Meerabai Temple, and Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple.
I strongly recommend Chittorgarh Fort to all Indians and everyone curious about India’s real past. You will be inspired and filled with pride for our amazing legacy after exploring its immense extent, feeling the echoes of history, and taking in its breathtaking beauty. A trip to Chittorgarh Fort is more than simply a tour; it’s an experience that will stay with you forever and help you understand the essence of India.
