Chittorgarh Fort
The Chittorgarh (literally Chittor Fort), also known as Chittod Fort, is one of the largest living forts in India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort was the capital of Mewar and is located in the present-day city of Chittorgarh. It sprawls over a hill 180 m (590.6 ft) in height spread over an area of 280 ha (691.9 acres) above the plains of the valley drained by the Berach River. The fort covers 65 historic structures, which include four palaces, 19 large temples, 20 large water bodies, 4 memorials and a few victory towers.
Situated in the historical city of Chittorgarh, the Chittorgarh Fort stands strong as a citadel in the state of the forts and palaces. Although there are many monuments in Rajasthan to be seen and admired but Chittorgarh Fort is an epic waxing poetic about the Rajput gallantry and honour. Built in the 7th century AD, this UNESCO World Heritage Site used to be the capital of the Mewar rulers. The fort complex comprises seven gates, two towers, and 65 structures.
The largest fort in India and Asia, Chittorgarh Fort has withstood three major Muslim invasions starting from Alauddin Khilji, Bahadur Shah and Akbar. But, never for once, seen as a Muslim bastion and always regarded as the hallmark of the Rajput amour propre. It wasn’t a fight for religion or faith; it was the fight to keep the pride of the land unsullied and protecting it from the foreign raiders. And it was this sense of belonging that made the Rajput kings take up arms against the enemies which defined their never say die heroism for generations to come. While the men braved it out in the battlefield, the women supported the sacrifice of their men by committing jauhar to keep the honour of the community and the unflinching, indomitable spirit alive.
