Chittorgarh Fort, a magnificent and historic fort in India, is one of the most important attractions in Rajasthan. For those on a trip to Udaipur, this full-of-tragic-love-tales fort is a must visit. Spread over a huge 700 acres with a perimeter wall of 13 km, this fort once served as the abode of kings and queens. In 2013, UNESCO declared it a world heritage site under the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

History

Situated some 100 km from Udaipur in the pretty town of Chittorgarh, the fort is reminiscent of Rajputana pride, loyalty and sacrifice. It is also one of the largest forts in India. Besides its grandness and architectural beauty, the fort is known to have witnessed the torment of Alauddin Khilji, the king of the Khalji dynasty that ruled the Delhi Sultanate. Khilji defeated the then ruler of Rajput dynasty Rana Ratan Singh.

As per legends and the poem, Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi, Alauddin only attacked Chittor to capture Ratan Singh’s beautiful queen Padmini. It is said that Khilji was smitten by her beauty and wanted to marry her. After the king was killed, as per the poem, Queen Padmini, along with other women, committed mᴀss jauhar (suicide) to safeguard their honour.
Jauhar Mela
Every year, a Jauhar Mela is held in Chittorgarh. This Rajput festival celebrates the anniversary of one of the jauhars. Though there’s no specific name given, it is believed that the faif commemorates Rani Padmini’s jauhar and celebrates Rajputana valour.

The story of Meera Bai

The fort is also ᴀssociated with Rani Meera Bai, the poetess who devoted her life to Lord Kirshna. The famous poet-saint lived here and the fort also has a temple dedicated to Meera. Legend has it that once her brother-in-law tried to kill her but with the blessings of Lord Krishna, she lived even after consuming dangerous poison.

With so many historic tales of love and devotion, Chittorgarh keeps attracting visitors from across the world!