Chittorgarh lies at the foot of a hill on which stands Chittor fort. From the 8th century to the 16th it remained the capital of the state of Mewār and was the stronghold of the Sisodia Rājputs. It was thrice besieged by Muslim attackers: Alā-ud-Dīn Khaljī (1303), Bahādur Shāh of Gujarāt (1534-35), and the Mughal emperor Akbar (1567-68). In each case the defenders chose death for themselves and jauhar (collective immolation) for their families rather than surrender. After Chittorgarh's capture by Akbar (1568), the capital of Mewār was transferred from there to Udaipur. Within the Chittor fortress are several palaces, Jain and Hindu temples, and two exquisitely carved Jain pillars (the towers of Fame and Victory), erected in the 12th and 15th centuries, respectively. The surrounding area comprises a series of hills running north to south and forming narrow, confined valleys. Agriculture is the principal occupation. Wheat, corn (maize), sorghum, oilseeds, cotton, and sugarcane are the chief crops. [Adapted from Encyclopedia Britannica]
Sammidheshwar Temple and Victory Tower Area |
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Rana Kumbha palace |
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Meera and Kumbh Shyam temples |
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Padmini's palace |
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Kirti Stambha Etc. |
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