New Delhi: Rajasthan is famous for its numerous forts, and the Ranthambore Fort stands out among them. Located within the Ranthambore National Park near Sawai Madhopur city, the formidable fort has played a crucial role in Rajasthan’s historical developments. It was reportedly built by many kings from several Rajput dynasties including Chahamana and the Mewar Rajput dynasty. It was even captured by the Delhi Sultanate for a brief time. One can get an excellent view of the Ranthambore National Park from the fort which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state.
Who built the fort?
The Chauhan rulers built the famous Ranthambore Fort in the 10th century and it was placed at a very important strategic location. Notable, during the reign of Prithviraj I of the Chauhan dynasty, the fort was associated with Jainism with Siddhasenasuri including it in the list of holy Jain tirthas.
After Ghurid ruler Muhammad of Ghor defeated Prithviraj Chauhan in 1192 CE, he captured the fort and in 1226, it was captured by Iltutmish, considered to be the effective founder of the Delhi Sultanate. But in 1236, the Chauhans re-captured it after his demise.
The famous Jauhar at the fort
Arguably, the most famous incident at the Ranthambore Fort was the legend of the royal women performing ‘jauhar’ (self-immolation) when Alauddin Khilji invaded the fort in 1303. It was later ruled by the likes of Rana Kumbha and Rana Sanga and even Mughal Emperor Akbar could not resist himself from capturing this famous fort.
The architecture of the Ranthambore Fort
The Ranthambore Fort has three Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva and Lord Ram. The temples were built with red Karauli stone and it also has a Jain temple of Lord Sumatinath and Lord Sambhavanath. Also, it has tanks, huge walls and massive gates. It has examples of brilliant Rajput architecture and has famous attractions like Mahadeo Chhatri, Sametonki Haveli and Toran Dwar. The Lord Ganesha temple is a major tourist attraction and also hosts a fair every year during Bhadrapad Sudi Chaturthi.
The Chauhan rulers built the famous Ranthambore Fort in the 10th century and it was placed at a very important strategic location. It is associated with a legendary incident of ‘jauhar’ in Indian history. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
