Chittaurgarh

The fortified city of Chittaurgarh symbolizes the valiance and chivalry of a band of great Rajput defenders, who prefer death to submission. It stands for all that was brave, true and noble in the Rajput tradition. The city witnessed three ferocious seizes by a superior enemy, but each time its chastity and pride remained intact by virtue its loyal inhabitants. When men donned in saffron robes of martyrdom rode out of the fort towards a certain death their women and children immolated themselves on a huge funeral pyre.

It was in 1303, the Rajput beauty, Rani Padmini led the ritual of ‘Jauhar’ (throwing oneself into raging fire) rather than submit to dishonor, when Allauddin Khilji was overpowered by his lust for her. Rani Karnavati led the ‘Jauhar’ during 1533, when the Sultan of Gujarat attacked the then ruler of Chittaur. Eventually after the performance of the last ‘Jauhar’, Emperor Akbar, taking no chances razed the fort to rubble and the fort was never been inhabited again. The fort is believed to have been constructed by later Maurya rulers during the 7 th Century. Within the fort complex there are graceful palaces, chhatris and impressive gates that form major attractions in tourist books.

Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) built by Maharana Kumbh is another landmark tourist attractions in Chittaugarh. This imposing structure is nine storey tall and decorated with intricately designed sculptures. Among the other attractions of the place the most important include the Kirti Stambh (Tower of Fame), Rana Kumbha’s Palace, Rani Padmini’s Palace, Meera & Kumbha Shyam Temple, Kalika Mata Temple, Government Museum, Jaimal and Patta Palaces, Meerabai’s Temple and many other gardens & parks.