Chittorgarh

Chittorgarh, Rajasthan’s pride, still echoes with tales of its glorious but turbulent past. It is a land where chivalry, sacrifice, and honour have always been revered. Today, the only relics of those glorious times are the ruins of forts, palaces, and temples that have managed to retain their original grandeur. Chittorgarh has seen some of the bloodiest battles ever fought on Indian soil. The city itself was ravaged three times, beginning with Alauddin Khilji’s attack in 1303 AD and ending with Bahadur Shah’s attack in 1533 AD. Mughal Emperor Akbar attacked the city a third time and destroyed the Chittorgarh fort. After that attack, the fort was never inhabited again.

When Chittorgarh was attacked, its valiant people left no stone unturned in defending their honour until their last breath. While the men rode out to meet their opponents on the battlefield, the women and children would light a massive pyre and immolate themselves to escape the marauding enemy. Chittorgarh is now associated with the tragic story of Queen Padmini, who chose death over dishonour by committing ‘Jauhar,’ or self-immolation, alongside other women. Alauddin Khilji was so taken with her beauty that he attacked Chittorgarh with the sole intention of possessing her. However, queen Padmini foiled his plans by making the courageous decision to face death before allowing him to complete his goal.The spirit of sacrifice can still be found among the ruins of Chittorgarh. In fact, a trip to this city is truly an experience to remember for a lifetime.