Chittorgarh is one of most the famous cities of Rajasthan which is located in western India. Situated at the banks of river Berach and Gambhiri, it is also known as the former capital of the Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar. Chittor is of great historical significance, as it boasts of glorious past.

Chittorgarh Rajasthan :

Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh is truly a land of legends, which is home to the largest fort in Asia. This fort is known by the name of Chittorgarh Fort, which was attacked thrice by the invaders. But each time the brave Rajputs fought gallantly and we cannot forget Jauhar committed by the ladies and children to save their honor. This fort of Chittorgarh is the symbol of glorious Rajput tradition.

The brave people of Chittor preferred death instead of surrendering against enemies. This historical land has given birth to great warriors like Maharana Pratap who fought against Mughals until death. It is a fact which cannot be denied that even his enemies respected him for his bravery.

The history of Chittorgarh can be traced back to the Mahabharata. This is the legendary tale of ‘Bhim Lat’, which has been verbally passed from one generation to another since ancient times and has become a popular folklore among the local community. The legend tells us of the ground being stomped by the brave Bhim with mighty force, which lead to the formation of a water body.

Today several tourists from all over the world flock this magnificent city to observe the great Rajput architecture with a mix of Mughal influence on them. Some of the famous places of interest are the Kalika Mata Temple, Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower), Kirti Stambh, Rana Kumbha’s Palace and Rani Padmini’s Palace. Chittorgarh can be reached easily by a bus or a train. The Dabok Airport in Udaipur is the closest airport. It is at the distance of 90 km from Chittor.  Read the rest of this entry »

The history of Chittorgarh is filled with innumerable stories of heroism and fierce battles. In the middle of eighth century Bappa Rawal received Chittorgarh as a part of dowry. The descendants of Bappa Rawal ruled over kingdom of Mewar from eighth to 16^th century. Chittorgarh was attacked thrice by foreign invaders during these eight centuries.

The history of Chittorgarh:

Chittorgarh

In 1303 Allauddin Khilji, who was the Sultan of Delhi attacked Chittorgarh. He was intrigued by the tales of Rani Padmini’s beauty. He sent a message to Rana Ratan Singh that if was made to meet Rani Padmini, he would spare the city. It was compromised that the Sultan will be allowed to see the image of Padmini’s reflection on a set of mirror. After fulfilling Allauddin’s wish, Rana courteously escorted Allauddin to outer gate. But Allauddin betrayed Rana by taking him hostage with the help of his men.

Rana was somehow rescued by his men but while doing so, almost 7,000 brave Rajput warriors died. To protect their modesty and prevent humiliation at hands of enemies, rani along with the wives of Rajput soldiers performed jauhar. This was one of the most devastating incidents in the history of Chittorgarh.

Rana Kumbha (1433-68) was a brilliant musician, poet and versatile man. He built Mewar into a strong kingdom and made Chittorgarh famous all around Hindustan.

Rana Sanga (reigned 1509-27) was a great warrior and man of honor. He fought continuous battles and had lost one arm, was crippled in one leg and received 84 wounds on his body. His last battle was in 1527 against Babur, who was a Mughal invader.

The history of Chittorgarh is incomplete without the mention of the great Maharana Pratap (1572-97). He was a king without a capital. He came to rule Mewar and is known to continuously defy Akbar. In battle of Haldighati (1576), he and his followers had Read the rest of this entry »