Chittorgarh Fort: An epic tale of love, courage, and sacrifice

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

History
Situated some 100 km from Udaipur, in the pretty town of Chittorgarh, the fort is a reminder of Rajputana's 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 the Rajput dynasty, Rana Ratan Singh.

According to legends and the poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi, Alauddin attacked Chittor only 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 mass jauhar (suicide) to safeguard their honor.
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 valor.

The story of Meera Bai

The fort is also associated with Rani Meera Bai, the poetess who devoted her life to Lord Krishna. 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 tales of love and devotion from the past, Chittorgarh continues to attract visitors from across the world!