HIDDEN GEMS OF INDIA- THE GREAT WALL OF INDIA

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Deep within the wilderness of the Aravalli Range, around 84 kilometers north of Udaipur, lies the Kumbhalgarh Fort. This 15th-century marvel is protected by a majestic wall of 36 kilometers constructed strategically, for the safety of both; rulers and people of Mewar, from enemies. Thus, making it the second-longest continuous wall in the world after the Great Wall of China. Its size and grandeur earned it the nickname of “the Great Wall of India”.

History

It is believed that in the 15th Century Rana Kumbha constructed the Kumbhalgarh Fort. He was aided by the celebrated architect of the era, Mandan. Under Kumbha's rule, the Mewar kingdom stretched from Ranthambore to Gwalior, including significant areas of the present-day Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Notably, out of the 84 forts under his rule, Rana Kumbha is credited with constructing 32, but Kumbhalgarh stands as the largest and most complex of these remarkable structures.

Throughout its history, Kumbhalgarh Fort faced numerous assaults, showcasing its impressive defense. Though Ahmed Shah I and Mahmud Khalji's attempts to conquer failed, Akbar's general Shahbaz Khan eventually captured it in 1578 after a lengthy battle.? However, Maharana Pratap recaptured it five years later. Eventually in the 19th century, the fort was absorbed and acquired by the British Empire. While various rulers made additions to the fort’s structure, the core constructed by Rana Kumbha remains largely intact, housing well-preserved residences and temples. This fort also holds the distinction of being the birthplace of the legendary Ruler Maharana Pratap.

Architecture

The chief architect, Mandan, built this fort and documented his style of work in his text, Rajvallabh.?Built on a hilltop 1,100?m (3,600?ft) above sea level on the Aravalli range,?the frontal walls of the fortress are 4.5?m (15?ft) high. Kumbhalgarh has seven fortified gates which are Aret Pol, Hanuman Pol, Ram Pol, Vijay Pol, Nimboo Pol, Paghra Pol, and Top Khana Pol. The Badal Mahal, which translates to the “Palace of Clouds”, is the highest point in the palace, offering breath-taking views of the mountains, thus earning its name.

Kumbhalgarh Fort presents a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, characterized by its imposing 36-kilometer-long perimeter wall constructed entirely of beautifully carved stone blocks. This impressive display of craftsmanship extends to the numerous palaces, temples, and gates in the fort, each decorated with detailed carvings, lavish balconies, and delicate jali work.

Cultural Significance

The fortress also holds great cultural significance. The fort has over 360 Hindu and Jain temples within is boundary. Several cultural events are also hosted in the fort such as the Kumbhalgrah Festival in which various artists from around the country and the world are invited.

The fort also offers a light and sound show to narrate its magnificent history and the stories of its legends and a beautiful night view through which the visitors of the fort can explore its mystery under the stars. The Kumbhalgarh fort is also surrounded by Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary being the home to various flora and faunas.

Currently owing to its important place in Indian culture and history, the Kumbhalgrah fort has been declared as A UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.

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