Chittorgarh – The Ancient City

Chittorgarh is a city in the Rajasthan state of India, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is famous for its grand Chittorgarh Fort, which stands as a symbol of Rajput valor and bravery. The city has been witness to numerous battles, sieges, and invasions, making it an important destination for history lovers and travelers.

The history of Chittorgarh dates back to the 7th century when it was founded . The city was ruled by various dynasties, including the Mewar dynasty, the Guhilots, and the Sisodias. The most prominent rulers of Chittorgarh were the Sisodias, who ruled the city for over 700 years. The Sisodias were known for their valor and bravery, and they were instrumental in defending the city against numerous invasions.

One of the most significant events in the history of Chittorgarh was the siege of 1303 AD, when Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, attacked the city. The siege lasted for several months, and the Rajputs fought valiantly to defend their city. However, in the end, the Rajputs were defeated, and the women of the city committed Jauhar (self-immolation) to avoid falling into the hands of the enemy. The siege of Chittorgarh is considered one of the most significant events in the history of Rajputana.

Another significant event in the history of Chittorgarh was the siege of 1535 AD, when Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat, attacked the city. Once again, the Rajputs fought bravely to defend their city, but they were eventually defeated. However, unlike the siege of 1303 AD, the women of the city did not commit Jauhar, as the then Rani of Chittorgarh, Rani Karnavati, sent a message to the Mughal Emperor Humayun, asking for his help. Although Humayun was unable to help at the time, he later went on to defeat Bahadur Shah, and the city of Chittorgarh was eventually restored to the Rajputs.

The Chittorgarh Fort, which is the most prominent landmark of the city, was built in the 7th century by the Mauryan dynasty. The fort is situated on a hill, overlooking the city, and it covers an area of approximately 700 acres. The fort is surrounded by a wall that is over 13 kilometers long, making it one of the largest forts in India.

The Chittorgarh Fort has several magnificent palaces, temples, and towers, making it a popular tourist destination. Some of the most prominent structures within the fort include the Rana Kumbha Palace, the Vijay Stambh (Tower of Victory), the Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), and the Meera Temple. The Rana Kumbha Palace is the largest palace within the fort and is known for its architectural beauty. The Vijay Stambh and Kirti Stambh are two towers that were built to commemorate the victories of the Rajputs.

The Meera Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to the famous poet-saint Mirabai. Mirabai was a devotee of Lord Krishna and is known for her beautiful poems and songs. The temple is built in the Rajasthani style of architecture and is adorned with beautiful carvings and sculptures.

Apart from the Chittorgarh Fort, the city has several other places of historical significance. The Kalika Mata Temple, which is situated on a hill, is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and is believed to have been built in the 8th century. The temple has a unique architecture, with intricate carvings and sculptures, and offers a stunning view of the city from the hilltop.

Another popular destination in Chittorgarh is the Padmini Palace. The palace is named after Rani Padmini, the queen of Chittorgarh, who is said to have committed Jauhar along with other women of the city during the siege of 1303 AD. The palace is a beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture, with intricate carvings and paintings on the walls and ceilings.

Chittorgarh is also known for its various festivals, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the city. One of the most popular festivals in Chittorgarh is the Meera Mahotsav, which is celebrated in honor of the poet-saint Mirabai. The festival is a celebration of music and dance, and people from all over the world come to Chittorgarh to participate in the festivities.

Another popular festival in Chittorgarh is the Jauhar Mela, which is celebrated in memory of the women who committed Jauhar during the siege of 1303 AD. The festival is held every year in February and is marked by various cultural events, including folk dances, music performances, and a procession.

In conclusion, Chittorgarh is a city that is rich in history and cultural heritage. The city has been witness to numerous battles and invasions, and the Rajputs of Chittorgarh have always fought bravely to defend their city. The Chittorgarh Fort, with its magnificent palaces, temples, and towers, is a testament to the architectural and engineering skills of the Rajputs. The city also has several other places of historical significance, including the Kalika Mata Temple and the Padmini Palace. The various festivals celebrated in Chittorgarh reflect the rich cultural heritage of the city and are a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the unique culture of Rajasthan.