Forts and palaces

History of Rajasthan forts and palaces
India has a rich cultural heritage and history, and what
better way to experience its regal lineage, than to visit the
majestic palaces and forts in India? These structures that
were crafted ages ago, still stand testimony to the test of
time they have undergone and the beauty they have
maintained throughout these years. Here is a
comprehensive guide to the best palaces and forts in
India, that will leave an indelible mark on you.

Mehrangarh Fort located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is one of the largest forts in India. Built around
1460 by RaoJodha, the fort is situated 410 feet (125 m) above the city and is enclosed by imposing
thick walls. Inside its boundaries there are several palaces known for their intricate carvings and
expensive courtyards.
. A winding road leads to and from the city below. The imprints of cannonball hits by attacking
armies of Jaipur can still be seen on the second gate. To the left of the fort is the chhatri of Kirat
Singh Soda, a soldier who fell on the spot defending the Mehrangarhfort.
There are seven gates, which include Jayapol (meaning 'victory'), built by Maharaja Man Singh to
commemorate his victories over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. Fattehpol (also meaning 'victory') gate
was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh to mark the defeat of the Mughals. The palm imprints upon these
still attract much attention.
The museum in the Mehrangarh fort is one of the most well-stocked museums in Rajasthan. In one
section of the fort museum there is a selection of old royal palanquins, including the elaborate
domed gilt Mahadol palanquin which was won in a battle from the Governor of Gujarat in 1730. The
museum exhibits the heritage of the Rathores in arms, costumes, paintings and decorated period
rooms.

Mehrangarh (etymology: 'Mihir' (Sanskrit) -sun or Sun-deity; 'garh' (Sanskrit)-fort; i.e.'Sun-fort');
according to Rajasthani language pronunciation conventions,'Mihirgarh' has changed to
'Mehrangarh'; the Sun-deity has been the chief deity of the Rathore dynasty. Though the fortress
was originally started in 1459 by RaoJodha, founder of Jodhpur, most of the fort which stands
today dates from the period of Jaswant Singh of Marwar (1638–78)
RaoJodha, the chief of the Rathore clan, is credited with the origin of Jodhpur in India. He founded
Jodhpur in 1459 (Jodhpur was previously known as Marwar). He was one of Ranmal's 24 sons and
became the fifteenth Rathore ruler. One year after his accession to the throne, Jodha decided to move his
capital to the safer location of Jodhpur, as the one thousand years old Mandore fort was no longer
considered to provide sufficient security.
With the trusted aid of Rao Nara (son of RaoSamra), the Mewar forces were subdued at
Mandore. With that, RaoJodha gave Rao Nara the title of Diwan. With the help of Rao Nara, the
foundation of the fort was laid on 1/ May 1459 by Jodha on a rocky hill 9 kilometres (5.6 mi) to
the south of Mandore. This hill was known as Bhaurcheeria, the mountain of birds. According to
legend to build the fort he had to displace the hill's sole human occupant, a hermit called
CheeriaNathji, the lord of birds. Upset at being forced to move CheeriaNathji cursed RaoJodha
with "Jodha! May your citadel ever suffer a scarcity of water!".RaoJodha managed to appease
the hermit by building a house and a temple in the fort very near the cave the hermit had used for
meditation, though only to the extent that even today the area is plagued by a drought every 3 to
4 years.

Entry to the fort is gained though a series of seven gates. The most famous of the gates are:
•Jai Pol ("Gate of Victory"), built by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806 to celebrate his victory in a war with
Jaipur and Bikaner.
•Fateh Pol, built to celebrate a victory over the Mughals in 1707;
•DedhKamgra Pol, which still bears the scars of bombardment by cannonballs;
•Loha Pol, which is the final gate into the main part of the fort complex. Immediately to the left are
the handprints (sati marks) of the ranis who in 1843 immolated themselves on the funeral pyre of
their husband, Maharaja Man Singh.
Within the fort are several brilliantly crafted and decorated palaces. These include, MotiMahal (Pearl
Palace), PhoolMahal (Flower Palace), SheeshaMahal (Mirror Palace), SilehKhana and DaulatKhana.
The museum houses a collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical
instruments, costumes and furniture. The ramparts of the fort house preserved old cannon (including
the famous Kilkila.
The Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur is considered to be one of the largest forts in India. The
unique thing about the fort is that it is situated at an elevated platform of and very thick walls
as boundaries, thus making the fort look very imposing. The fort has 7 distinct gates, one of
which still has cannonball imprints so as to signify the wars of the past. Now, there is a
museum inside the fort which documents the rich history of the ‘Rathores’ elaborately in the
form of paintings, attires, arms, etc.
It’s also interesting to know that a small part of the movie – ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ was shot
in this fort.

One of the most royal and privately owned heritage residence is
theUmaidBhavan in Jodhpur. The palace is divided into three
parts, the hotel chain run by the Taj group, the private residential
complex of the royal family and the museum. One of the must
visit parts of the Palace is the vintage car collection of the royal
family, on display here.
It is a magnificent piece of Rajasthan’s heritage. Home of the
jodhpur royal family and currently the world’s sixth largest
private residence.
The palace was named after Maharaja umaid singh.

Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest fortifications in the world. It is situated in the city of
Jaisalmer, in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a World Heritage Site. It was built in 1156 AD
by the Rajput ruler RawalJaisal, from whom it derives its name.
The fort stands amidst the sandy expanse of the great Thar Desert, on Trikuta Hill, and has
been the scene of many battles. Its massive yellow sandstone walls are a tawny lion colour
during the day, fading to honey-gold as the sun sets, thereby camouflaging the fort in the
yellow desert. For this reason, it is also known as the Sonar Quila or Golden Fort.[1] The fort
is located in the very heart of the city, and is one of the most notable monuments in the
locality
In 2013, at the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Phnom Penh,
Cambodia, Jaisalmer Fort, along with 5 other forts of Rajasthan, was declared a UNESCO
World Heritage Site under the group Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
The fort was built by RawalJaisal in 1156 CE. Jaisal conspired with the Sultan of Gaur to
dispose his nephew Bhojdev from his territory. The other important event of the fort was
during 1276 when King Jetsi strengthened the fort against the invading Sultan of Delhi. The
56 bastions were manned by 3,700 soldiers. After eight years of invasion, the Sultan's army
destroyed the castle. Bhatis took control of the fort, but had no means to strengthen it. In
1306, Dodoo was elected the Rawal for his bravery for ejecting the Rathors. He
subsequently started building the fort.

During medieval times, the city played a major role in trade with Persia, Arabia, Egypt and
Africa. The fort contains 3 layers of walls. The outer or the lower layer is made out of solid
stone blocks and it reinforces the loose rubble of Trikuta Hill. The second, or middle, wall
snakes around the fort. From the innermost, or third, wall, the Rajput warriors once hurled
boiling oil and water as well as massive blocks of rock at their enemies, who would become
entrapped between the second and third walls. This defences of the fort include 99 bastions,
of which 92 were built between the period of 1633-47.
Ala-ud-din Khilji attacked and captured the fort in the 13th century and managed to hold it for
9 years. During the siege of the fort the Rajput women committed Jauhar. The second battle
at the fort happened in 1541, when Mughal emperor Humayun attacked the fort city. The
Rawals could not stand the invasion of Mughal emperor Babur and subsequently seeded to
Akbar in 1570 and also got his daughter married to him.
The fort was under the control of Mughals until 1762 when MaharawalMulraj took control of
the fort. Due to its isolated location, the fort escaped the ravages of the Marathas. The treaty
between the East India Company and Mulraj on 12 December 1818 allowed the king to have
succession of the fort and provided protection from invasion. After the death of Mulraj in 1820,
his grandson Gaj Singh took reigns of the fort.

With the advent of British rule, the emergence of maritime trade and the growth of
the port of Bombay led to the gradual economic decline of Jaisalmer. After
independence and the Partition of India, the ancient trade route was totally closed,
thus sealing the fate of the city. Nonetheless, the continued strategic importance of
Jaisalmer was demonstrated during the 1965 and 1971 wars between India and
Pakistan Although at one point the entire population of Jaisalmer lived within the
fort, it today has a resident population of about 4,000 people who are largely from
the Brahmin and Daroga communities. They are mostly descendants of the
workforce of the Bhati rulers of Jaisalmer which was permitted to reside within the
fort's premises.[2] With an increase in population, people gradually relocated to the
foot of the Trikuta Hill and the town of Jaisalmer spread out from the fort.
One of the largest forts in India and in the world, with the strongest fortifications,
the Jaisalmer Fort stands proud on the Trikuta Hill in the Thar Desert, and has
witnessed innumerable battles of every possible magnitude and has seen quite
some bloodshed in its time. During its capture by Ala-Ud-Din Khilji, the women of
the royal family committedJauhar, or suicide, to save themselves from having their
modesty enraged by the invaders. The fort now, is a sight to behold. Atop the hill, it
has a lion yellow shade on it, and during the sunet, a strong gold haze develops on
it, from where it also gets the name of Sonar Kila, or the Golden Fort.

Nahargarh Fort stands on the edge of the Aravalli Hills, overlooking the pink city of
Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The view of the city from the fort is impressive.
Along with Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh once formed a strong defense ring for
the city. The fort was originally named Sudarshangarh, but it became known as
Nahargarh, which means 'abode of tigers'. The popular belief is that Nahar here stands for
Nahar Singh Bhomia,[1] whose spirit haunted the place and obstructed construction of the
fort.[2]Nahar's spirit was pacified by building a temple in his memory within the fort,
which thus became known by his name.
Built mainly in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, the fort
was constructed as a place of retreat on the summit of the ridge above the city.
Walls extended over the surrounding hills, forming fortifications that connected
this fort to Jaigarh, the fort above the old capital of Amber. Though the fort never
came under attack during the course of its history, it did see some historical
events, notably the treaties with the Maratha forces who warred with Jaipur in the
18th century.[4] During the Indian Mutiny of 1857, the Europeans of the region,
including the British Resident's wife, were moved to Nahargarh fort by the king of
Jaipur, Sawai Ram Singh, for their protection

The fort was extended in 1868 during the reign of Sawai Ram Singh. In 1883-92, a
range of palaces was built at Nahargarh by SawaiMadho Singh at a cost of nearly
three and a half lakh rupees.[6] The MadhavendraBhawan, built by SawaiMadho
Singh had suites for the queens of Jaipur and at the head was a suite for the king
himself. The rooms are linked by corridors and still have some delicate frescoes.
Nahargarh was also a hunting residence of the Maharajas.
Until April 1944, the Jaipur State government used for its official purposes solar
time read from theSamratYantra in the JantarMantar Observatory, with a gun fired
from Nahargarh Fort as the time signal.
Some scenes of the movie Rang De Basanti and ShuddhDesi Romance and
Bengali Cinema Sonar Kella were shot at Nahargarh fort.

Jaigarh fort is situated on the promontory called the CheelkaTeela (Hill of Eagles) of
the Aravalli range; it overlooks the Amber Fort and the Maota Lake, near Amber in
Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. The fort was built by Jai Singh II in 1726 to protect the
Amber Fort and its palace complex and was named after him.
The fort, rugged and similar in structural design to the Amber Fort, is also known as
Victory Fort. It has a length of 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) along the north–south direction
and a width of 1 kilometre (0.62 mi). The fort features a cannon named "Jaivana",
which was manufactured in the fort precincts and was then the world's largest cannon
on wheels.[1][4] The palace complex (Laxmi Vilas, LalitMandir, Vilas Mandir and Aram
Mandir) located ), an armoury and a museum.[2][3][4]Jaigarh Fort and Amber Fort are
connected by subterranean passages and considered as one complex.
Amber was known in the ancient and medieval period as Dhundhar (meaning
attributed to a sacrificial mount in the western frontiers)The old and original fort of
Amer, dating from earlier Rajas or the Meena period, in Jaigarh fort small fortification
was built by meena in amer.[6] What is known in the present day as Jaigarh Fort,
which was actually the main defensive structure rather than the palace itself.
The two structures are interconnected by a series of encompassing fortifications and
ruled by the Kachwahas from the 10th century onwards. The history of Amber and
Jaigarh is indelibly linked to these rulers, as they founded their empire at Amber.

Cannon foundry of Jaigarh Fort
During the reign of the Mughal EmperorShah Jahan, Jaigarh Fort, which is located 150 miles
south-west of Delhi, became one of the world's most efficient cannon foundries mainly due to
the abundance of iron ore mines in the vicinity of the fort. The cannon foundry Jaigarh Fort had
a massive wind tunnel that sucked air from the high mountains into its furnace creating
temperatures as high as 2400 °F, the heated air would melt the metal.
The liquid molten metal would fill a reservoir chamber and into a cannon mold in the casting pit.
Most of those cannons were massive, mostly 16 ft long and had to be prepared within a single
day. The Rajput also built a large ingenious mechanical device that had a precision gear system
driven by four pairs of oxen, the device was used for hollowing out the cannon barrels.
When the Mughal war of succession broke out in 1658 DaraShikoh secured the cannon outpost
of Jaigarh Fort until he was defeated and executed by his younger brother Aurangzeb. Later
however, the Mughal EmperorMuhammad Shah appointed Jai Singh II as the official Mughal
Qiladar of Jaigarh Fort according to a Firman, ultimately Jai Singh II is known to have molded
the great Jaivana Cannon by utilizing the important foundry and devices inside Jaigarh Fort

The City Palace of Jaipur was constructed in the 18th century by Sawai Jai Singh II,
the ruler of Amber, and till the 20th century, many structures were added into the
palace by subsequent rulers of the city. The palace is a beautiful amalgamation of
various styles of architecture, namely the Mughal, Rajputana and European styles.
Jaipur is a city known for its strong and hospitable heritage and culture, and the City
Palace, to this date, stands a testimony to that. The integrated pink walls and
structures are a part of that heritage, which gives the city its label of the Pink City.
On display is a magnificent collection of armory and weapons through ages, and
housed within the museum in the palace premises that makes the place a delight to
visit for tourists, history buffs and children as well.

The Amber Fort, also called the Amer Fort, because it is situated in the city of Amer,
is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jaipur. It has come to be one of
the best promoted and still well maintained forts in India. Elephant rides to the fort
are available, as are good mannered and courteous guides. The Ganesh Pol
entrance is one of the most aesthetically pleasing and intricately carved portions of
the fort. Dated carvings of the Sheesh Mahal and the embossed door of the Sila
Devi Palace are absolute delights to explore. The private quarters of the king and
his family are entered through the Ganesh Pol, and have a magnificent view of the
Maota Lake. The Sheesh Mahal, or the Glass Palace, is a quarter with its ceiling
embedded with concave glass pieces set in intricate carvings. There is a lot of rich
cultural history to the Amer Fort that is pleasing to the eye and a real treat for
people all ages as well.

HISTORY OF JUNAGARH FORT, BIKANER
Erstwhile ‘Chintamani’, Junagarh Fort is one of the few major forts in Rajasthan that hasn’t been
constructed on a hilltop. This is an important fort for the locals because the city has evolved and
grown around the fort. The fort museum is known for the post medieval arms.
The erstwhile Princely state of Bikaner and its capital city Bikaner was founded by RaoBika
(1465-1504 AD.) by the blessings of Goddess Karni Mata in the year 1488 AD. In those days
this vast tract of desert country was called “Jangaldesh”. Prince Bika of the Rathore clan of
Rajputs was the valiant son of RaoJodha- the founder of Jodhpur. Encouraged and provoked by
his father, Prince Bika moved out of Marwar (Jodhpur) on an ambitious military adventure, with
a small contingent of Rathore warriors (500 soldier and 100 cavalry men). He was supported by
his brave uncle, RawatKandhal, who always stood by him as his guardian and politico-strategic
advisor. Those were the days when this land was inhabited by different clans of Jats and
Rajputs and their Chiefs enjoyed fairly good amount of autonomy, of course some of them owing
their allegiance to the Sultanate of Delhi. RaoBika subdued all the contemporary Chiefs and was
recognized as the ruler of the land. He laid the foundations of a State that existed till it acceded
and merged into the Indian Union in 1947 and 1949.

RaoBika laid the foundation of the city of Bikaner in 1488 AD, having first
constructed a small fortress in the RatiGhati area. Today this site is situated at the
south west end of the old walled city near LaxminathJi temple. The royal family of
Bikaner lived there, till Raja Rai Singh Ji built a new fort called Chintamani (now
Junagarh) during 1589 to 1593 AD. The rulers of Bikaner had played a prominent
and glorious role in the history of India. They held high ranks as Mansabdars of
special order or Governors in the court of the Imperial Mughals.
Construction of Junagarh Fort
The first dig ceremony for construction of the fort was held on Thursday,
PhagunVadi 19, V.S. 1645 i.e. 30th January, 1589 AD. The foundation was laid on
Monday, PhuganSudi 12 V.S. 1645 i.e. 17th February, 1589 A.D. and it was
completed on Thursday MaghSudi 6 V.S. 1650 i.e. 17th January 1594 AD. Later on
this fort became the most magnificent example of architecture and great centre of
art. The present fort is a composite structure, the result of intense building activities
of many rulers through four centuries and one of the precious gems of Indian
architecture in the midst of Thar Desert.

CHITTORGARH FORT
AND PADMINI
PALACE, RAJASTHAN

The Chittor Fort or Chittorgarh is one of the largest forts in India. It is a World Heritage Site.
The fort was the capital of Mewar and is today situated in the Chittorgarh town. It sprawls over
a hill 180 m (590.6 ft) in height spread over an area of 280 ha (691.9 acres) above the plains
of the valley drained by the Berach River. The fort precinct has several historical palaces,
gates, temples and two prominent commemoration towers. These monumental ruins have
inspired the imagination of tourists and writers for centuries.
From 7th century, the fort was ruled by the Mewar Kingdom. It was attacked three times by
Muslim rulers: In 1303 Allauddin Khilji defeated Rana Ratan Singh, in 1535 Bahadur Shah, the
Sultan of Gujarat defeated Bikramjeet Singh and in 1567 Akbar defeated Maharana Udai
Singh II who left the fort and founded Udaipur. Each time the men fought bravely rushing out
of the fort walls charging the enemy but lost every time.
Following these defeats, Jauhar was committed thrice by more than 13,000 ladies and
children of the Rajput soldiers who laid their lives in battles at Chittorgarh Fort, first led by Rani
Padmini wife of Rana Rattan Singh who was killed in the battle in 1303, and later by Rani
Karnavati in 1537 AD.
Thus, the fort represents the quintessence of tribute to the nationalism, courage, medieval
chivalry and sacrifice exhibited by the Mewar rulers of Sisodia and their kinsmen and women
and children, between the 7th and 16th centuries. The rulers, their soldiers, the women folk of
royalty and the commoners considered death as a better option than dishonor in the face of
surrender to the foreign invading armies

In 2013, at the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia,
Chittorgarh Fort, along with 5 other forts of Rajasthan, was declared a UNESCO World
Heritage Site under the group Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
Chittorgarh (garh means fort) was originally called Chitrakut.[9] It is said to have been built by
the local Maurya rulers (not to be confused with the imperial Mauryans).[10] According to one
legend, the name of the fort is derived from its builder Chitranga.[9] Another folk legend
attributes the construction of fort to the legendary hero Bhima: it states that Bhima struck the
ground here, which resulted in water springing up to form a large reservoir. The water body
allegedly formed by Bhima is an artificial tank called Bhimlat kund. Several small Buddhist
stupas dated to 9th century based on the script were found at the edge of Jaimal Patta lake.
The Guhila (Gahlot) ruler Bappa Rawal is said to have captured the fort in either 728 CE or 734
CE. One account states that he received the fort in dowry.[9]According to other versions of the
legend, Bappa Rawal captured the fort either from the mlechchhas or the Moris.[12] Historian R.
C. Majumdar theorizes that the Moris (Mauryas) were ruling at Chittor when the Arabs
(mlechchhas) invaded north-western India around 725 CE.[12] The Arabs defeated the Moris,
and in turn, were defeated by a confederacy that included Bappa Rawal. R. V. Somani
theorized that Bappa Rawal was a part of the army of Nagabhata I.[13] Some historians doubt
the historicity of this legend, arguing that the Guhilas did not control Chittor before the reign of
the later ruler Allata.

Siege of 1303
Ala ud din Khilji, Sultan of Delhi, rallied his forces against Mewar, in 1303 AD. The Chittorgarh
fort was till then considered impregnable and grand, atop a natural hill. But his immediate
reason for invading the fort was his obsessive desire to capture Rani Padmini, the unrivalled
beautiful queen of Rana Ratan Singh and take her into his harem. The Rana, out of politeness,
allowed the Khilji to view Padmini through a set of mirrors. But this viewing of Padmini further
fired Khilji's desire to possess her. After the viewing, as a gesture of courtesy, when the Rana
accompanied the Sultan to the outer gate, he was treacherously captured. Khilji conveyed to
the queen that the Rana would be released only if she agreed to join his harem. But the queen
had other plans. She agreed to go to his camp if permitted to go in a Royal style with an
entourage, in strict secrecy. Instead of her going, she sent 700 well armed soldiers disguised
in litters and they rescued the Rana and took him to the fort. But Khilji chased them to the fort
where a fierce battle ensued at the outer gate of the fort in which the Rajput soldiers were
overpowered and the Rana was killed.
Khilji won the battle on August 26, 1303. Soon thereafter, instead of surrendering to the Sultan,
the royal Rajput ladies led by Rani Padmini preferred to die through the Rajput's ultimate tragic
rite of Jauhar (self immolation on a pyre). In revenge, Khilji killed thirty thousand Rajputs. He
entrusted the fort to his son Khizr Khan to rule and renamed the fort as 'Khizrabad'. He also
showered gifts on his son by way of a red canopy, a robe embroidered with gold and two
standards one green and the other black and threw upon him rubies and emeralds. He returned
to Delhi after the fierce battle at the fort

Rana Kumbha and clan
There was resurgence during the reign of Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. Rana Kumbha,
also known as Maharana Kumbhakarna, son of Rana Mokal, ruled Mewar between 1433 AD
and 1468 AD. He is credited with building up the Mewar kingdom assiduously as a force to
reckon with. He built 32 forts (84 fortresses formed the defense of Mewar) including one in his
own name, called Kumbalgarh. But his death come in 1468 AD at the hands of his own son
Rana Udaysimha (Uday Singh I) who assassinated him to gain the throne of Mewar.
This patricide was not appreciated by the people of Mewar and consequently his brother Rana
Raimal assumed the reins of power in 1473. After his death in May 1509, Sangram Singh (also
known as Rana Sanga), his youngest son, became the ruler of Mewar, which brought in a new
phase in the history of Mewar.
. Rana Sanga, with support from Medini Rai[18] (a Rajput chief of Alwar), fought a valiant battle
against Mughal emperor Babar at Khanwa in 1527. He ushered in a period of prestige to
Chittor by defeating the rulers of Gujarat and also effectively interfered in the matters of Idar.
He also won small areas of the Delhi territory. In the ensuing battle with Ibrahim Lodi, Rana
won and acquired some districts of Malwa. He also defeated the combined might of Sultan
Muzaffar of Gujarat and the Sultan of Malwa. By 1525 AD, Rana Sanga had developed Chittor
and Mewar, by virtue of great intellect, valour and his sword, into a formidable military
state.[6][17] But in a decisive battle that was fought against Babar on March 16, 1527, the Rajput
army of Rana Sanga suffered a terrible defeat and Sanga escaped to one of his fortresses.
But soon thereafter in another attack on the Chanderi fort the valiant Rana Sanga died and
with his death the Rajput confederacy collapsed

Siege of 1567
The final Siege of Chittorgarh came 33 years later, in 1567, when
the Mughal Emperor Akbar invaded the fort. Akbar wanted to conquer Mewar, which was being ably
ruled by Rana Uday Singh II, a fine prince of Mewar. To establish himself as the supreme lord of
Northern India, he wanted to capture the renowned fortress of Chittor, as a precursor to conquering
the whole of India. Shakti Singh, son of the Rana who had quarreled with his father, had run away
and approached Akbar when the later had camped at Dholpur preparing to attack Malwa. During
one of these meetings, in August 1567, Shakti Singh came to know from a remark made in jest by
emperor Akbar that he was intending to wage war against Chittor.
Akbar had told Shakti Singh in jest that since his father had not submitted himself before him like
other princes and chieftains of the region he would attack him. Startled by this revelation, Shakti
Singh quietly rushed back to Chittor and informed his father of the impending invasion by Akbar.
Akbar was furious with the departure of Shakti Singh and decided to attack Mewar to humble the
arrogance of the Ranas.
In September 1567, the emperor left for Chittor, and on October 20, 1567, camped in the vast
plains outside the fort. In the meantime, Rana Udai Singh, on the advice of his council of advisors,
decided to go away from Chittor to the hills of Udaipur. Rao Jaimal and Patta (Rajasthan), two army
chieftains of Mewar, were left behind to defend the fort along with 8,000 Rajput warriors under their
command. Akbar laid siege to the fortress. The battle continued till February 23, 1568. On that day
Jaymal was seriously wounded but he continued to fight with support from Patta. Jayamal
ordered jauhar to be performed when many beautiful princesses of Mewar and noble matrons
committed self-immolation at the funeral pyre.[citation needed] Next day the gates of the fort were
opened and Rajput soldiers rushed out to fight the enemies. Rao Jaimal and Rawat Patta Singh
Sisodia who were at last killed in action. One figure estimates that only 5,000 Mughal soldiers were
killed in action.

Precincts
Vijay stambha
The Vijay Stambha (Tower of Victory) or Jaya Stambha, called the symbol of Chittor and a
particularly bold expression of triumph, was erected by Rana Kumbha between 1458 and 1468
to commemorate his victory over Mahmud Shah I Khalji, the Sultan of Malwa, in 1440 AD. Built
over a period of ten years, it raises 37.2 metres (122 ft) over a 47 square feet (4.4 m2) base in
nine stories accessed through a narrow circular staircase of 157 steps (the interior is also
carved) up to the 8th floor, from where there is good view of the plains and the new town of
Chittor. The dome, which was a later addition, was damaged by lightning and repaired during
the 19th century. The Stamba is now illuminated during the evenings and gives a beautiful view
of Chittor from the top.
Kirti Stambha
Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame) is a 22-metre-high (72 ft) tower built on a 30-foot (9.1 m) base
with 15 feet (4.6 m) at the top; it is adorned with Jain sculptures on the outside and is older
(probably 12th century) and smaller than the Victory Tower. Built by a Bagherwal Jain merchant
Jijaji Rathod, it is dedicated to Adinath, the first Jain tirthankar (revered Jain teacher). In the
lowest floor of the tower, figures of the various tirthankars of the Jain pantheon are seen in
special niches formed to house them. These are digambara monuments. A narrow stairway
with 54 steps leads through the six storeys to the top. The top pavilion that was added in the
15th century has 12 columns

Padmini's Palace
Padmini's Palace or Rani Padmini's Palace is a white building and a three storied structure (a 19th-century
reconstruction of the original). It is located in the southern part of the fort. Chhatris (pavilions) crown the
palace roofs and a water moat surrounds the palace. This style of palace became the forerunner of other
palaces built in the state with the concept of Jal Mahal (palace surrounded by water). It is at this Palace
where Alauddin was permitted to glimpse the mirror image of Rani Padmini, wife of Maharana Rattan
Singh.
It is widely believed that this glimpse of Padmini's beauty besotted him and convinced him to destroy
Chittor in order to possess her. Maharana Rattan Singh was killed and Rani Padmini committed Jauhar.
Rani Padmini's beauty has been compared to that of Cleopatra and her life story is an eternal legend in the
history of Chittor. The bronze gates to this pavilion were removed and transported to Agra by Akbar. The
story of Padmini was the inspiration for Padmavat, an epic poem written in 1540 by Malik Muhammad
Jayasi.
Culture
The fort and the city of Chittorgarh host the biggest Rajput festival called the "Jauhar Mela".[5] It takes
place annually on the anniversary of one of the jauhars, but no specific name has been given to it. It is
generally believed that it commemorates Padmini's jauhar, which is most famous. This festival is held
primarily to commemorate the bravery of Rajput ancestors and all three jauhars which happened at
Chittorgarh Fort. A huge number of Rajputs, which include the descendants of most of the princely
families, hold a procession to celebrate the Jauhar. It has also become a forum to air one's views on the
current political situation in the country.

Kumbhalgarh Fort is a Mewar fortress on the westerly range of Aravalli Hills, in the Rajsamand
district near Udaipur of Rajasthan state in western India. It is a World Heritage Site included in Hill
Forts of Rajasthan. Built during the course of the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, Kumbhalgarh is also
the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the great king and warrior of Mewar. Occupied until the late 19th
century, the fort is now open to the public and is spectacularly lit for a few minutes each evening.
Kumbalgarh is situated 82 km northwest of Udaipur by road. It is the most important fort
in Mewar after Chittaurgarh.
In 2013, at the 37th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia,
Kumbhalgarh Fort, along with five other forts of Rajasthan, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage
Site under the group Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
With a wall over 38 km long, the fort is the second largest wall in the world after the Great Wall of
China and the second largest fort in Rajasthan after Chittorgarh Fort.
Rana Kumbha's kingdom of Mewar stretched from Ranthambore to Gwalior and included large
tracts of erstwhile Madhya Pradesh as well as Rajasthan. Out of the 84 forts in his dominion, Rana
Kumbha is said to have designed 32 of them, of which Kumbhalgarh is the largest and most
elaborate.
Kumbhalgarh also separated Mewar and Marwar from each other and was used as a place of refuge
for the rulers of Mewar at times of danger. A notable instance was in the case of Prince Udai, the
infant king of Mewar who was smuggled here in 1535, when Chittaur was under siege. Prince Udai
who later succeeded to the throne was also the founder of the Udaipur City. The fort remained
impregnable to direct assault, and fell only once, due to a shortage of drinking water, to the
combined forces of Mughal Emperor Akbar, Raja Man Singh of Amber, Raja Udai Singh of Marwar,
and the Mirzas in Gujarat.

Ahmed Shah I of Gujarat attacked the fort in 1457, but found the effort futile. There was a
local belief then that the Banmata deity in the fort protected it and hence he destroyed
the temple. There were further attempts in 1458-59 and 1467 by Mahmud Khilji, but it
also proved futile. Akbar's general, Shabhbaz Khan, is believed to have taken control of
the fort in 1576. In 1818, an armed band of Sanyasins formed a garrison to protect the
fort, but was convinced by Tod and the fort was taken over by the Marathas. There were
additions made by Maharanas of Mewar, but the original structure built by Maharana
Kumbha remains. The residential buildings and temples are well-preserved. The fort is
also known to be the birthplace of Maha Rana Pratap.
Built on a hilltop 1,100 m (3,600 ft) above sea level on the Aravalli range, the fort of
Kumbhalgarh has perimeter walls that extend 36 km (22 mi), making it the second
longest wall in the world. The frontal walls are fifteen feet thick. Kumbhalgarh has
seven fortified gateways. There are over 360 temples within the fort, 300
ancient Jain and the rest Hindu. From the palace top, it is possible to see kilometers into
the Aravalli Range. The sand dunes of the Thar Desert can be seen from the fort walls.
According to legend, in 1443 CE, the Maharana of Kumbhalgarh, Rana Kumbha, was
initially repeatedly unsuccessful in attempts to build the fort wall. A spiritual preceptor
was consulted about the construction problems and advised the ruler that a voluntary
human sacrifice would solve whatever was causing the impediment. The spiritual
advisor advised building a temple where the head should fall and building the wall and
the fort where the rest of his body lay. As can be expected, for some time no one
volunteered, but one day, a pilgrim (some versions suggest a soldier, and some, that the
spiritual preceptor and the pilgrim were one and the same) volunteered and was ritually
decapitated. Today the main gate of the fortress, Hanuman Pol, contains a shrine and a
temple to commemorate the great sacrifice.

According to popular folklore, Maharana Kumbha used to burn massive lamps that
consumed fifty kilograms of ghee and a hundred kilograms of cotton to provide light for
the farmers who worked during the nights in the valley.
Its wall is the second largest wall in the world, after the Great Wall of China and is known
as the Great Wall of India.
Hindu Temple
A Ganesh temple built on a 12 ft (3.7 m) platform and is considered the earliest of all
temples built inside the fort.[7] Neel Kanth Mahadeva temple is located on the eastern side
of the fort built during 1458 CE. The central shrine of Shiva is approached through a
rectangular enclosure and through a structure supported by 24 huge pillars. The idol of
Shiva is made of black stone and is depicted with 12 hands. Th.e inscriptions indicate that
the temple was renovated by Rana Shanga.
Jain Temple
Parsva Natha temple (built during 1513), Jain temple on the eastern side and Bawan (52)
Jain temples and Golera Jain temple are the major Jain temples in the fort.Mataji temple,
also called Kheda Devi temple is located on the southern side of Neela Kanth
temple.[ Mamdeo temple, Pital Shah Jain temple and Surya Mandir (Sun temple) are the
other major temples inside the temple

Culture
The Rajasthan Tourism Department organizes a three-day annual festival in
the fort in remembrance of the passion of Maharana Kumbha towards art
and architecture. Sound and light shows are organized with the fort as the
background. Various concerts and dance events are also organised to
commemorate the function. The other events during the festival are
Heritage Fort Walk, turban tying, tug-of war and mehendi mandana among
others.
Six forts of Rajasthan, namely, Amber Fort, Chittorgarh Fort, Gagron
Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, Kumbhalgarh and Ranthambore Fort were included in
the UNESCO World Heritage Site list during the 37th meeting of the World
Heritage Committee in Phnom Penh during June 2013. They were
recognized as a serial cultural property and examples of Rajput military hill
architecture.

City Palace, Udaipur, is a palace complex situated in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan. It was built
over a period of nearly 400 years, with contributions from several rulers of the Mewar dynasty.
Construction began in 1553, started by Maharana Udai Singh II of the Sisodia Rajput family as he
shifted his capital from the erstwhile Chittor to the new found city of Udaipur.[1] The palace is
located on the east bank of Lake Pichola and has several palaces built within its complex.[2][3][4][5][6]
The City Palace in Udaipur was built in a flamboyant style and is considered the largest of its type
in the state of Rajasthan. It was built atop a hill, in a fusion of
the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, providing a panoramic view of the city and its
surroundings. Overlooking Lake Pichola, several historic monuments like the Lake Palace, Jag
Mandir, Jagdish Temple, Monsoon Palace, and Neemach Mata temple, are all in the vicinity of the
palace complex. Nestled within the Aravali mountain range, these landmarks are associated in
popular culture with the filming of the 1983 James Bond movie Octopussy.
The City Palace was built concurrently with the establishment of the Udaipur city by Maharana
Udai Singh II and his successor Maharanas over a period of the next 400 years.The Maharanas
lived and administered their kingdom from this palace, thereby making the palace complex an
important historic landmark.
The City Palace complex was built over a period of 400 years and doesn’t it exude magnificence! It
is known for the fusion of Rajasthani and Mughal influenced architecture. The panoramic view of
the city from the palace is surreal. It has also been a favourite destination for shooting movies.

The Mewar kingdom had flourished initially in Nagda (30 kilometres (19 mi) to the north of Udaipur),
established in 568 AD by Guhil, the first Maharana of Mewar. In the 8th century, the capital was
moved to Chittor, a hill top fort from where the Sisodias ruled for 80 years. Maharana Uday Singh II
inherited the Mewar kingdom at Chittor in 1537 but by that time there were signs of losing control of
the fort in wars with the Mughals. Udai Singh II, therefore, chose the site near Lake Pichola for his
new kingdom as the location was well protected on all sides by forests, lakes and the Aravalli hills.
He had chosen this site for his new capital, much before the sacking of Chittor by Emperor Akbar,
on the advice of a hermit he had met during one of his hunting expeditions.
The earliest royal structure he built here was the Royal courtyard or 'Rai Angan', which was the
beginning of the building of the City Palace complex. The court was built at the location where the
hermit had advised Maharana to build his new capital
After Udai Singh’s death in 1572, his son Maharana Pratap took the reins of power at Udaipur.
However, he was defeated by the Mughal emperor Akbar at the Battle of Haldighati in 1576 and
Udaipur fell under the Mughal rule.[13] After the death of Akbar, Mewar was given back to Maharana
Pratap's son and successor Amar Singh I by Jahangir.However, the Mughal army sent many
expeditions against the Mewar empire, culminating in a peace treaty between both rulers.
But with the increasing Marathas attacks by 1761, Udaipur and the Mewar state were in dire straits
and in ruins. By 1818, Maharana Bhim Singh signed a treaty with the British accepting their
protection against the other empires.After the Indian independence in 1947, the Mewar Kingdom,
along with other princely states of Rajasthan, merged with the democratic India, in 1949. The
Mewar Kings subsequently also lost their special royal privileges and titles. The successive
Maharanas, however, retained their ownership of the palaces in Udaipur and converted parts of the
palace complex into heritage hotels.

Architecture
The series of palaces in the city palace complex, behind an exquisite facade of 244 metres
(801 ft) length and 30.4 metres (100 ft) height, were built on a ridge on the east of lake
Pichola. The complex is located in Udaipur city at 24.576°N 73.68°E, which is set with an
average elevation of 598 metres (1,962 ft).[16] They were built over a long period, from 1559
onwards, by 76 generations of Sisodia Rajputs .Several Maharanas starting with Udai Singh
II, have contributed to this edifice, which comprises an agglomeration of structures, including
11 small separate palaces. The unique aspect of this conglomeration is that the architectural
design is distinctly homogeneous . The palace complex has been built entirely in granite and
marble. The interiors of the palace complex with its balconies, towers and cupolas exhibit
delicate mirror-work, marble-work, murals, wall paintings, silver-work, inlay-work and leftover
of colored glass. The complex provides a view of the lake and the Udaipur city from its upper
terraces
The palaces within the complex are interlinked through a number of chowks or quadrangles
with zigzag corridors, planned in this fashion to avoid surprise attacks by enemies. Erected in
the complex, after entering through the main Tripolia (triple) gate, are the Suraj Gokhda
(public address facade), the Mor-chowk (Peacock courtyard), the Dilkhush Mahal (heart’s
delight), the Surya Chopar, the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of glass and mirrors), the Moti Mahal
(Palace of Pearls), the Krishna Vilas (named after Lord Krishna), Shambu Niwas (royal
residence now), the Bhim Vilas, the Amar Vilas (with a raised garden) that faces the Badi
Mahal (the big palace), the Fateprakash Palace and the Shiv Niwas Palace; the last two have
been converted into heritage hotels. The complex is set with facilities of a post office, bank,
travel agency, numerous craft shops and also an Indian boutique belonging to the World
Wildlife Fund (WWF) . The entire complex is the property of the Mewar royal family with

Structures within the complex :
Gateways
The main entry from the city is through the 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate), which leads to the first
courtyard. Bara Pol (built in 1600) leads to the ‘Tripolia Pol', a triple arched gate built in 1725,
which provides the northern entry. The road between this gate and the palace is lined with
shops and kiosks owned by craftsmen, book-binders, miniature painters and textile dealers.
Between these two gates, eight marble arches or Toranas are erected. It is said that the
Maharanas used to be weighed here with gold and silver, which was then distributed among
the local people. Following the Tripolia gate is an arena in front of the Toran Pol and the facade
palace, the Manak Chowk, where elephant fights were staged in the past to test their prowess
before starting on war campaigns.
The main block of the city palace is approached through a modest door from the Ganesha
Deodhi terrace. The door is flanked by whitewashed walls vibrantly painted with martial animals
in the traditional Rajput style.
Amar Vilas
Amar Vilas is the uppermost court inside the complex, which is an elevated garden. It provides
entry to the Badi Mahal. It was built in Mughal style as a pleasure pavilion . It has cussed
arcades enclosing a square marble tub.[3]'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of the City palace and
has wonderful hanging gardens with fountains, towers and terraces.
Badi Mahal
Badi Mahal (Great Palace) also known as Garden Palace is the central palace situated on a 27
metres (89 ft) high natural rock formation bis-a-bis the rest of the palace. The rooms on the
ground floor appear to be at the level of the fourth floor in view of the height difference to its
surrounding buildings. There is a swimming pool here, which was then used for Holi festival
(festival of colors) celebration. In an adjoining hall, miniature paintings of 18th and 19th
centuries are displayed. In addition, wall paintings of Jag Mandir (as it appeared in the 18th
century), Vishnu of Jagdish temple, the very courtyard and an elephant fight scene are

Bhim Vilas
Bhim Vilas has a gallery of a collection of miniature paintings that depict the real-life stories
of Radha-Krishna.
Chini Chitrashala
Chini Chitrashala (Chinese art place) depicts Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles.[6]
Choti Chitrashali
Choti Chitrashali or 'Residence of Little Pictures', built in early 19th century, has pictures of
peacocks
Dilkhusha Mahal
Dilkhusha Mahal or ‘Palace of Joy’ was built in 1620.[9]
Durbar hall
Durbar Hall was built in 1909 within the Fatehpraksh Palace as a venue for official functions
such as State banquets and meetings .The gallery of the hall was used by the Royal ladies to
observe the Durbar proceedings. This hall has a luxuriant interior with large chandeliers.
Weapons of the maharanas and some of their portraits are depicted here. The foundation stone
for this hall was laid by Lord Minto, the Viceroy of India, in 1909, during the rule of Maharana
Fateh Singh and was then called Minto Hall.[10]
Fateprakash Palace
Fateprakash Palace, which is now a luxury hotel, has a crystal gallery that consists of crystal
chairs, dressing tables, sofas, tables, chairs and beds, crockery, table fountains which were
never used. There is also a jewel studded carpet here. Maharana Sajjan Singh had ordered
these rare items in 1877 from F& C Osler & Co of London but he died before they arrived here.
Krishna Vilas
Krishna Vilas is another chamber, which has a rich collection of miniature paintings that portray
royal processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas that the packages containing these
crystals remained unopened for 110 years.

Laxmi Vilas chowk
Laxmi Vilas Chowk is an art gallery with a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings.
Manak Mahal
The Manak Mahal approached from the Manak Chowk is an enclosure for formal audience for
the Mewar rulers. It has a raised alcove inlaid completely in mirror glass. Sun-face emblems, in
gleaming brass, religious insignia of the Sisodia dynasty are a recurring display at several
locations in the City Palace with one being depicted on the façade of the Manak Chowk. The
largest of such an emblem is also seen on the wall of the Surya Chopar, a reception centre at
the lower level. Surya or Sun emblem of the Mewar dynasty depicts a Bhil, the Sun, Chittor
Fort and a Rajput with an inscription in Sanskrit of a quotation from the Bhagavad Gita (Hindu
holy scripture), which means “God Helps those who do their duty". It was customary for the
Maharanas to offer obeisance to the Sun facing east, every morning before taking breakfast.
Mor Chowk
Mor Chowk or Peacock square is integral to the inner courts of the palace. The elaborate design
of this chamber consists of three peacocks (representing the three seasons of summer, winter
and monsoon) modeled in high relief and faced with coloured glass mosaic, built into successive
niches in the wall area or jharoka, These were built during Maharana Sajjan Singh’s reign, 200
years after the palace was established. The peacocks have been crafted with 5000 pieces of
glass, which shine in green, gold and blue colours. The apartments in front of the Chowk are
depicted with scenes of Hindu god Lord Krishna’s legends. At the upper level, there is a
projecting balcony, which is flanked by inserts of coloured glass. In an adjoining chamber, called
the Kanch-ki-Burj, mosaics of mirrors adorn the walls. The Badi Charur Chowk within this chowk
is a smaller court for private use. Its screen wall has painted and inlaid compositions
depicting European men and Indian women. Proceeding further from the Mor-Chowk, in the
Zenana Mahal or women’s quarters exquisitely designed alcoves, balconies, colored windows,
tiled walls and floors are seen

Rang Bhawan
Rang Bhawan is the palace that used to hold the royal treasure. There are temples of
Lord Krishna, Meera Bai and Shiva located here.[6]
Sheesh Mahal
Sheess Mahal or Palace of Mirrors and glasses was built in 1716[9] by Maharana
Pratap for his wife Maharani Ajabde.
Museum
In 1974, a part of the city palace and the 'Zenana Mahal' (Ladies Chamber) were
converted into a museum. The museum is open for public.
The palace was picturised as a hotel in the 1985 James Bond film Octopussy, where
Bond (played by Roger Moore) stayed as he began his quest to apprehend the
antagonist Kamal Khan (Louis Jordan).
A 1991 documentary film directed for television by Werner Herzog called Jag
Mandir consists of footage of an elaborate theatrical performance for
the Maharana Arvind Singh Mewar at the City Palace staged by André Heller.
The palace was used for filming part of Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (English: A
Play of Bullets: Ram-Leela) 2013 directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
The palace area of Manak Chowk serves as the venue of the annual Maharana
Mewar Foundation Awards, honouring students, national and international
personalities

THANK YOU
PRESENTED BY JYOTI CHANDANI

Forts and palaces

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