FORTS IN RAJASTHAN

Given below overview of the significant forts in Rajasthan, highlighting their historical importance, architectural features, and notable events:

FORT OF GAGRON: THE WATER FORT

• Location: Jhalawar district, on the banks of Kali Sindh and Ahu rivers.
• Construction: Built by Paramara rulers, leading to its alternative names Dodgarh or Dhulargarh.
• Historical Significance:
  • Deven Singh conquered it by defeating Bijaldev Dodd.
  • 1423 AD: Hoshang Shah, ruler of Malwa, attacked during the reign of Achaladas Khichi, leading to the first Saka (a historic battle and mass self-sacrifice) of Gagron.
  • 1444 AD: Palhan Singh ruled Gagron, during which Mahmud Khilji, Sultan of Malwa, attacked, resulting in the second Saka.
  • Mahmud Khilji renamed the fort Mustaffabad.
  • Akbar granted control of the fort to Prithviraj Rathore of Bikaner.
  • Eventually, the fort became part of Kota state and served as its mint.
• Architectural Features:
  • Built without a foundation, standing on rocky terrain.
  • Contains Madhusudan temple, constructed by Durjanasal of Kota.
  • Aurangzeb added the Buland Darwaza (grand entrance).
  • Sufi saint Hamiduddin’s Dargah is also situated here; he is revered as Meethe Sahab.
  • Features like Giddha Karai (site for executions), Ghohar Kund, and Andheri Bavdi add to its historical intrigue.

CHITTORGARH FORT: PRIDE OF RAJASTHAN

• Location: On the Mesa plateau along the Gambhiri and Bedach rivers.
• Construction: Originally built by Chitrang Maurya.
• Nickname: Known as the ‘Sirmaur of forts’ and ‘Pride of Rajasthan’.
• Size: The largest residential fort in Rajasthan.
• Historical Importance: It embodies Rajasthan’s resilience and pride, withstanding multiple Sakas (sacrifices) and battles.
• Key Structures:
  • Palaces: Includes Ratan Singh Palace and Padmini Palace.
  • Temples: Kalika Temple, Meera Temple, Samideshwar Mahadev (originally Tribhuvan temple, renovated by Mokal), Tulja Bhavani Temple, and Ekling Temple.
  • Other Notable Structures: Navlakha Bhandar (constructed by Banveer), Shringar Chanwari, and Kumbha Swamy Temple.

KUMBHALGARH FORT: THE SENTINEL OF MEWAR

• Location: Rajsamand district.
• Construction: Built by Maharana Kumbha.
• Nickname: Known as the troubleshooter fort of Mewar and sentinel of Mewar-Marwar.
• Structure:
  • Boasts a 36 km long wall, wide enough for four horses to run side by side.
  • At the top is Katargarh, Kumbha’s private residence, known as the ‘eye of Mewar’.
  • The fort’s altitude offers a dizzying view, as noted by Abul Fazl, who commented that looking down from it could cause one’s turban to fall.
  • James Todd, a historian, compared it to Etruscan fortresses.
  • Contains Mama Dev Kund and Jhali Rani Malia.

RANTHAMBORE FORT: THE HIDDEN GIANT

• Location: Sawai Madhopur district.
• Construction: Built by Chauhan rulers in the 8th century.
• Strategic Importance: Positioned on a hill in an elliptical shape, making it nearly invisible from a distance.
• Historical Note: Abul Fazl described this fort as armored, unlike other bare forts.
• Key Structures:
  • Jogi Mahal, Supari Palace, and Trinetra Ganesh Temple.
  • Jaura Bhoran (grain storage) and Pir Sadruddin’s Dargah.
  • Gupta Ganga springs from the fort.
  • Mint established by Akbar.
  • Features like Hammer Kachari and Thirty-two Pillars Cenotaph.

MEHRANGARH FORT: FORT OF KINGS

• Location: Jodhpur.
• Construction: Built in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha.
• Nickname: Known as Moradhwaj Garh (peacock-shaped fort) due to its design and Garh Chintamani.
• Historical Mention: Described by Rudyard Kipling as a creation of ‘fairies and gods’.
• Key Features:
  • Cannons: Notable cannons include Kilkila, Bhavani, Shambhuban, and Ghajini Khan.
  • Chidiya Toonk: A strategic high point.
  • Water Supply: Comes from the Ranisar pond, built by Queen Jasmade, Rao Jodha’s wife.
  • Important Buildings:
    • Moti Mahal (Palace of Pearls).
    • Shringar Chauki: Coronation site for Jodhpur’s rulers.
    • Chamunda Mata Temple: A revered temple within the fort.
    • Libraries and Cenotaphs: Includes Mansingh Library, Kirat Singh Sodha’s Cenotaph, and Dhanna Bhinwa’s Cenotaph.

JAISALMER FORT: SONAR QILA OR GOLDEN FORT

• Construction: Built by Rao Jaisal in 1155 AD.
• Architectural Features:
  • Designed in a triangular shape and built using yellow sandstone, which shines golden in the sunlight, earning it the names Sonargarh, Sonar Qila, or Swarnagiri.
  • The fort’s appearance from a distance is likened to a ship anchored in a sea of sand and also to a yawning lion.
  • Lime was not used in its construction, and the roof is made of wood, a unique feature.
  • It is known for its 99 bastions, making it the most fortified fort in Rajasthan.
  • Encircled by a long rampart called Kamarkot, resembling a skirt that offers added protection.
• Cultural Significance:
  • Houses Jinbhadra Suri Bhandar, a repository of handwritten books and ancient paintings, including the Dashvm Vaikalika Sutra Churni.
  • Contains structures like the Badal Mahal, Parshvanath Temple, and Jaisalu Fort.
  • Satyajit Ray made a documentary called Sonar Kila, adding to the fort’s literary fame.
  • In 2009, a postage stamp was issued to commemorate this architectural marvel.
  • Described by Abul Fazl as accessible only by stone feet, highlighting its formidable location.

JUNAGARH FORT: THE JEWEL OF THE LAND

• Location: Bikaner.
• Construction: Built by Rai Singh between 1589 and 1594 AD.
• Architectural Features:
  • Built on flat terrain, giving it the nickname ‘Jewel of the Land’.
  • Also known as the ‘Fort of Ratighati’ due to its strategic location.
  • The fort has a quadrilateral design with 37 bastions for defense.
  • Encircled by a trench, which adds to its defensive strength.
  • Ganga Singh, the ruler of Bikaner, even installed lifts in the fort, making it technologically advanced for its time.
• Notable Structures:
  • Anup Mahal, known for its intricate woodwork and gold leaf decorations.
  • Har Mandir, a temple where the royal family worshiped.
  • Ganga Vilas, where the walls depict the Krishna Rasleela, a beautiful representation of devotion.
  • The fort served as a cultural hub with a blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles.

BHATNER FORT: SENTINEL OF THE NORTHERN FRONTIER

• Location: Hanumangarh.
• Construction: Built by Bhupat Bhati.
• Significance: Known for withstanding numerous attacks, earning it the title ‘Sentinel of the Northern Frontier’. The Bhati rulers were often referred to as ‘Uttara Bhad Kiwad’, the guardians of the northern gates.
• Historical Note: Taimur, in his autobiography, called it ‘the safest fort in India’ due to its strategic location and design.
• Unique Aspects:
  • The fort’s walls are made of raw clay, a rare feature among Rajasthan’s forts.
  • 52 bastions and 365 kangurs (parapets) mark its strong defense.
  • It is the only fort that documents Jauhar (self-immolation) of both Muslim and Hindu women.
  • Monuments of Dalpat Singh (rebellious son of Rai Singh) and his six queens can be found here, alongside the tomb of Sher Bal Khan, the brother of Balban.
  • Houses the Bhadra Kali Mata temple, adding spiritual significance to the site.

TARAGARH FORT: THE GIBRALTAR OF RAJASTHAN

• Location: Ajmer.
• Construction: Originally built by Chauhan King Ajayraj, it was initially named Ajayamerugarh.
• Renaming: Later renamed Taragarh by Udna prince Prithviraj (Mewar) after his queen Tara.
• Nickname: Referred to as ‘Garh Beedali Fort’ and ‘Gibraltar of Rajasthan’, a title given by Bishop Haber for its strategic location and impregnable design.
• Features:
  • 14 bastions fortified this structure, making it a stronghold against invasions.
  • It houses the Dargah of Meeran Sahib, who served as a governor here.
  • Uniquely, it also contains the tombs of a horse and a transgender.
  • Prithviraj Chauhan’s memorial and Sisa Khan’s cave add to its historical allure.
  • Converted into a sanatorium by William Bentinck, who saw potential in its serene environment.
  • Dara Shikoh, Aurangzeb’s brother, took refuge here during a period of conflict.
  • The fort served as a haven for Umade (Ruthi Rani), the queen of Maldev.

AKBAR FORT – AJMER: DAULATKHANA OF AKBAR

• Construction: Built by Akbar in 1570 AD.
• Architectural Significance:
  • It served as a strategic military base and a royal residence, known as Daulatkhana.
  • The fort’s design blends Mughal architectural elements with Rajasthani influences, indicative of its era.
• Historical Significance:
  • This fort played a crucial role in the planning of the Battle of Haldighati, a pivotal conflict between the Mughal Empire and Mewar, led by Maharana Pratap.
  • It was here that British Ambassador Thomas Roe had his historic meeting with Emperor Jahangir, marking an important event in British-Indian relations.
  • The fort later became known as ‘The Fort of the Magazine’, as the British used it as a depot for storing weapons.
• Present-Day Use:
  • It currently houses the Rajputana Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to Rajasthan’s royal heritage and Mughal history.

AMBER FORT – JAIPUR: KAKILGARH

• Construction: Started by King Maan Singh, a trusted general of Akbar, and later expanded under Raja Jai Singh I.
• Architectural Style:
  • Known as Kakilgarh, the fort is built in palace style, reflecting Rajputana grandeur with a significant Mughal influence.
  • The fort features intricate carvings, mirror work, and beautiful courtyards.
  • It has a labyrinthine structure, similar to that of Lucknow, adding to its mystique.
• Key Structures:
  • Sukh Mandir: A palace for the royals with water channels for cooling.
  • Yash Mandir: Known for its decorative mirror work.
  • Sheesh Mahal (Hall of Mirrors): Famous for its intricate mirror mosaics.
  • Diwan-e-Aam: The Hall of Public Audience.
  • Diwan-i-Khas: The Hall of Private Audience.
  • Kesar Kyari Garden and Mawtha Reservoir: A blend of nature with architecture.
  • Shilamata Temple and Jagat Shiromani Temple, showcasing the spiritual significance of the fort.
• Cultural Significance:
  • The fort is a prime example of Rajput-Mughal architecture and is a major tourist attraction, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site group, Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

JAIGARH FORT – JAIPUR: MYSTERIOUS FORT

• Construction: Started by Maan Singh and completed by Mirza Raja Jai Singh, who named it Jaigarh.
• Strategic Importance:
  • It was built as a military stronghold for the Kachwaha rulers of Amer, serving as a troubleshooter fort for defending Amer Fort.
  • Known for its water tanks, the fort has a robust water management system.
  • Sawai Jai Singh installed the famous Jaivana Cannon here, one of the largest cannons of its time.
• Unique Features:
  • The fort is filled with secret tunnels, earning it the nickname ‘Mysterious Fort’.
  • The Kachhwaha royal treasure was rumored to be hidden here. During the Emergency in India, Indira Gandhi ordered an excavation to find the treasure.
  • The fort also housed an armory, highlighting its military focus.
  • Vijayagarhi: The place where Sawai Jai Singh imprisoned his younger brother, Vijay Singh.
• Architectural Highlights:
  • The fort has impressive ramparts and watchtowers, providing panoramic views of Jaipur.
  • It is connected to Amber Fort through fortified passages, enabling easy movement during emergencies.

NAHARGARH FORT – JAIPUR: JAIPUR’S SENTINEL

• Construction: Built by Sawai Jai Singh II to serve as a defensive structure against Maratha invasions.
• Original Name: Initially called Sudarshangarh, it was renamed Nahargarh after Nahar Singh Bhomiaji, whose spirit was believed to have haunted the place.
• Significance: Known as Jaipur’s Sentinel, it played a crucial role in protecting the city of Jaipur and provided a strategic vantage point over the surrounding areas.
• Architectural Features:
  • The fort’s design reflects Rajputana architecture with European influences seen in its interior decorations.
  • Madho Singh II constructed nine identical palaces within the fort, one for each of his concubines.
  • The palaces feature intricate frescoes and spacious rooms, exemplifying Rajasthani craftsmanship.
• Historical Events:
  • Jagat Singh’s beloved, Rasakpur, was held captive here.
  • The fort offers stunning views of Jaipur and has become a popular spot for tourists and film shoots.
  • It also houses the Madhavendra Bhawan, a beautiful palace within the fort complex that is a prime example of blended architectural styles.

JALORE FORT: FORT OF SUVARNAGIRI

• Location: Situated on the Sonar Giri hilltop, on the banks of the Sukdi River in Jalore.
• Construction:
  • Built originally by the Pratihara ruler Nagabhatta I.
  • Kanhaddev Sonagara later renovated the fort, giving it its present form.

• Architectural Features:
  • Known as the ‘Fort of Suvarnagiri’ due to its elevated golden-hued location.
  • It houses Alai Mosque and Khilji Minar, built during the Delhi Sultanate period.
  • The Topkhana Masjid located here was formerly a Sanskrit school established by the Paramara kings.
  • Jain Kirti Stambh (Victory Pillar) is also situated within the fort, emphasizing its cultural diversity.
• Historical Significance:
  • It served as a refuge for Jodhpur Maharaja Man Singh before he became king.
  • Leaders of the Marwar Prajamandal, such as Mathuradas Mathur and Ganesh Lal Vyas, were placed under house arrest here.
  • The dargah of Malik Shah, a prominent Sufi saint, is situated within the fort.
• Cultural Importance: Jalore Fort is known for its diverse heritage, combining Hindu and Islamic architectural elements, which represent the region’s multi-cultural history.

FORT OF SIVANA: KEY OF JALORE

• Location: Present in Barmer district.
• Construction: Built by Veer Narayan Panwar.
• Architectural Features:
  • Known as Kumut Durg due to the presence of Kumut bushes around the fort.
  • Bhandelav Pond is a notable feature within the fort, serving as a water source.
• Historical Significance:
  • Referred to as the ‘exigency palace of Rathores of Marwar’ and the ‘Key of Jalore’, it was strategically important in regional power struggles.
  • Served as a crucial defensive stronghold during times of conflict, especially against external invasions.

FORT OF ACHALGARH: SACRED AND HISTORICAL HUB

• Location: Situated in the Aravalli Range near Mount Abu.
• Construction: Built by the Parmar rulers and later renovated by Maharana Kumbha.
• Key Structures:
  • Achaleshwar Mahadev Temple, where Shiva’s thumb is worshiped, is a significant religious site within the fort.
  • The statue of Dursa Aadha is positioned in front of this temple.
  • Idols of Sawan Bhado: Statues of Kumbha and his sons.
  • Other notable places include Okha Rani’s Palace and Mandakini Kund.
• Historical Events:
  • It was a site where Mahmud Begada’s army from Gujarat faced a swarm of flies, believed to be a divine intervention.
• Cultural Significance: The fort is not only a military structure but also a sacred place for Hindu devotees and a site of regional folklore.

FORT OF BHARATPUR: LOHAGARH OR ‘IRON FORT’

• Location: Bharatpur, eastern Rajasthan.
• Construction:
  • Built by Maharaja Suraj Mal, a visionary ruler known for his architectural contributions.
  • Ashtadhatu (eight-metal) doors are installed at the fort’s northern gate, highlighting its defensive focus.
• Key Structures:
  • Kishori Mahal, Dadi Ma Palace, Wazir’s Kothi, Ganga Temple, Laxman Temple, Jama Masjid, and Moti Mahal are significant structures that showcase a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture.
  • A trench surrounds the fort, which was filled with water from the Sujan Ganga Canal.
  • The Sujan Ganga trench gets its name as the water flows from the Moti Lake through the canal.
• Historical Significance:
  • Known as Lohagarh (Iron Fort) due to its invincibility. Even Lord Lake, a British commander, could not conquer it during the Second Anglo-Maratha War.
  • Jaswant Rao Holkar, a Maratha leader, was given refuge here by Ranjit Singh, adding to its historical legacy.
  • To commemorate this fort’s victory over the British, Fateh Burj was constructed.
• Cultural Importance: Bharatpur Fort symbolizes the resilience of Rajput kings against foreign powers, becoming a symbol of pride and courage.

FORT OF BAYANA: VIJAY STAMBH OF RAJASTHAN

• Location: Bharatpur district.
• Construction:
  • Built by Vijayapala on Damdama Hill, it served as a strategic military outpost.
• Key Structures:
  • Vijay Mandir Garh, Banasur Durg, Badshah’s Fort, and Samudra Gupt’s Vijay Stambh are notable constructions, with the Vijay Stambh being the first of its kind in Rajasthan.
  • Vishnu Vadhna, the feudal lord of Samudra Gupta, built Usha Lat (Bhima Lat).
  • Queen Chitralekha constructed the Usha Temple, which was later converted into the Usha Masjid by Mubarak Khilji.
  • Other historical structures include Akbar’s Cenotaph, Jahangiri Darwaza, Lodi Minar, Dawood Khan’s Tower, and Sadulla Sarai.
• Historical Significance:
  • This fort was a crucial site during the Gupta Empire and later became a significant stronghold for Rajput rulers.
  • The fort served as a witness to various cultural transformations, reflected in the architectural changes over time, like the conversion of Hindu temples into mosques.
• Cultural Importance: It stands as a symbol of cultural syncretism, where Hindu and Islamic influences converged, creating a shared heritage.

BALA FORT – ALWAR: SALIM MAHAL/FORT

• Location: Alwar district.
• Construction:
  • Initially built by the Nikumbh Kshatriyas and later by Chauhans.
  • Reconstructed by Alghurai, the son of Kakil Dev.
  • Hasan Khan Mewati also carried out significant repairs.
• Architectural Highlights:
  • Jal Mahal and Nikumbh Mahal are notable structures within the fort.
  • Jahangir stayed here for an extended period, leading to the fort being referred to as Salim Mahal.
• Historical Importance:
  • It played a pivotal role during the time of Mughal rule and later became a key site during British India.
• Cultural Legacy: Bala Fort represents the historical continuity of Alwar’s legacy and its strategic importance in regional politics.

MADHE RAJPURA FORT: A BASTION AGAINST MARATHAS

• Location: Jaipur district.
• Construction: Built by Madho Singh I after his victory over the Marathas.
• Historical Events:
  • Bharat Singh Naruka took refuge here, holding the Begums of Nawab Amir Khan Pindari (Tonk) as hostages.
• Strategic Importance: The fort served as a military bastion during the Rajput-Maratha conflicts, showcasing the defensive acumen of Rajput rulers.
• Architectural Details: The fort is known for its sturdy construction and strategic location, making it a prominent feature in the history of Jaipur’s defense.

FORT OF CHOMU: CHAMUHAGARH OR RAGHUNATHGARH

• Location: Jaipur.
• Construction: Built by Thakur Karna Singh.
• Other Names: Known as Chamuhagarh, Dhadhargarh, and Raghunathgarh.
• Key Features:
  • Hawa Mandir is a notable structure within the fort, showcasing the architectural style of the region.
• Historical Significance: The fort served as a significant stronghold and a center of cultural activities during its time.

FORT OF MANDALGARH

• Location: Bhilwara.
• Construction: Built by Chanana Gurjar in memory of Mandia Bhil.
• Historical Significance:
  • Rana Man Singh stayed here before the Battle of Haldighati, making it a significant site during the Mughal-Rajput conflicts.
  • Cenotaph of Rana Sanga is located within the fort, commemorating his valor.
• Key Features:
  • Temple of Undeshwar Mahadev and Sheetla Mata Temple are important religious sites within the fort.
  • The Sagar-Sagari reservoir provides insight into the water management practices of that time.

SHERGARH FORT (BARANDH)

• Location: Situated on the banks of the Parvan River.
• Other Names: Known as Kosh Vardhangarh, reflecting its strategic importance.
• Key Features: The fort’s location by the river highlights its strategic placement for defense and resource management.

SHERGARH FORT (DHOLPUR)

• Construction: Built during the Kushan era by a feudal named Maldev.
• Renamed: Sher Shah Suri renamed the fort to Shergarh.
• Key Features:
  • Dargah of Syed Hussain is a prominent religious site within the fort.
  • Houses the Hunhunkar Cannon.
  • Kamalbagh, described by Babur in his autobiography, adds to its historical charm.
  • Nihal Tower here is noted as the largest bell tower in India.

FORT OF SHAHBAD (BARAN)

• Construction: Built by Mukutmani Dev Chauhan.
• Renamed: Renamed Salimabad by Sher Shah Suri during his expedition to Kalinjar.
• Key Features:
  • Badal Mahal is a significant structure within the fort.
  • Navalvan Cannon is housed here, symbolizing the fort’s military strength.

FORT OF KOTA

• Location: Kota district.
• Construction: Jaitra Singh built Gulab Mahal, and Madho Singh later expanded the fort.
• Significance: According to James Todd, the rampart of Kota Fort is second only to the Agra Fort in size.
• Key Features: It remains an important historical landmark, with its rich architecture and strategic significance during the Rajput era.

FORT OF BHAINSRODGARH

• Location: Chittaurgarh district, situated on the banks of Chambal and Bamani Rivers.
• Reputation: Known as the ‘Vellore of Rajasthan’ for its strategic importance and strong fortifications.

FORT OF NAGAUR

• Construction: Built by Kaimas, the feudal of Chauhan King Someshwar.
• Key Features:
  • Noted for its double rampart, providing enhanced defense.
  • It played a vital role in the regional power dynamics of the era.

FORT OF KUCHAMAN: SIRMAUR OF JAGIRI FORTS

• Location: Nagaur.
• Significance: Referred to as the ‘Sirmaur of Jagiri Forts’, emphasizing its stature among the forts of Rajasthan.
• Construction: Built by a local vassal, it served as a stronghold for the regional nobility.

CHURU FORT

• Location: Built by Kushal Singh, a feudal lord of Churu.
• Historical Events:
  • Known as the ‘Fort which fired silver cannon balls’ during the resistance against the British in 1814 AD.
  • Sayoji Singh (Shivji Singh) led the defense, showcasing local resistance against colonial powers.

FORT OF FATEHPUR

• Location: Built by Fateh Khan Kayamkhani in 1453 AD.
• Key Features:
  • Houses the Dargah of Saint Nizamuddin.
  • Saraswati Library is also located here, symbolizing the region’s cultural heritage.

FORT OF SAJJANGARH: CROWN JEWEL OF MEWAR

• Location: Udaipur.
• Construction: Built by Sajjan Singh, it is also known as the ‘Monsoon Palace’.
• Key Features:
  • Located within the Sajjangarh Sanctuary, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Known for its role in Mewar’s cultural legacy, the fort served as a retreat during the monsoon season.

FORT OF TIMANGARH

• Location: Present-day Karauli district.
• Notable Feature: Houses Nand Bhojai’s well, highlighting traditional water management practices.

DAUSA FORT: CHAJLA-SHAPED FORT

• Location: Built on Devgiri Hill in Dausa.
• Significance: Served as the initial capital of the Kachhwaha rulers before Jaipur.

FORT OF UNTALA

• Location: Situated in Vallabhnagar (Udaipur).
• Historical Events: Known for the competition between Chundavat and Shaktawat clans for Harawal (Front Battalion), showcasing the internal rivalries within the Rajput clans.

FORT OF MOHANGARH: THE LAST FORT OF INDIA

• Location: Jaisalmer.
• Construction: Built in 1945-46 during the reign of Jawahar Singh, it holds the distinction of being the last fort built in India.

These forts of Rajasthan not only serve as testaments to the region’s rich history and architectural brilliance but also embody the cultural resilience and pride of the Rajasthani people. From strategic military outposts to cultural hubs, each fort offers a glimpse into the glorious past of this desert state, highlighting the heroic deeds and cultural contributions that have shaped Rajasthan’s legacy.