 |
| The imposing fort walls of Mehrangarh fort |
One of the largest forts in India, Mehrangarh fort is located in the city of Jodhpur on a hill standing 400 feet tall. It is said to have been constructed by Rao Jodha the 15th Rathore ruler who gives Jodhpur its name. The fort has imposing walls protecting the several palaces known for their intricate carvings and expansive courtyards.
Rao Jodha, when he became the fifteenth successor of the Rathore kingdom; is said to have moved the capital from Mandore to the newly formed city of Jodhpur. To protect this city, there was a need to fortify and thus was laid the foundation of the fort was laid on May 12, 1459. This hill was then known as Bhaurcheeria, the mountain of birds. According to legend a hermit called Cheeria Nathji occupied the hill. He was the lord of birds. On being forced to move he cursed the king - "Jodha! May your citadel ever suffer a scarcity of water!". Rao Jodha built a house and a temple for the hermit. Pleased with the king he took back the curse.
Mehrangarh derives its name from Mihirgarh (the Sun Fort) – sun being the prime deity of the Rathore family. Though the fortress was originally built by Rao Jodha, most of the structures that stand today were built by Jaswant Singh. Entry to the fort is though a series of seven gates of which the important ones are Jai Pol, Fateh Pol, Dedh Kamgra Pol, Loha Pol. These were built to celebrate victory in various battles. There are several palaces within viz. Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Takht Mahal. Currently the fort houses a museum with galleries dedicated to elephant Howdahs, palanquins, treasures, armory, paintings, Turbans and folk music. It is open from 10 am to 5 pm.
No comments:
Post a Comment