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The pride and glory of Rajasthan, Chittaurgarh (or simply called Chittaur) echoes
with tales of romance and valor, unique to the Rajput tradition. The fortified settlement
has been ravaged thrice, and each time a Jauhar was declared in the face of impossible
odds where the womenfolk immolated themselves in the sacred fire. The men donned in
saffron robes of martyrdom rode out of the fort towards certain death. These tales of
chivalry and glorious death occupy a preeminent position in the Rajput psyche even today. Places to visit
The Fort
The awe inspiring hill fort built on the massive rock three miles long and was said to be
the key to Rajputana and is considered the finest medieval Hindu Fort in existence.
Dotting the fort are palaces and structures that have their own story to tell. Like Rana
Kumbha's palace, the oldest in Chittaur, is said to have a secret passage to the chamber
where the womenfolk of Chittaur performed Jauhar at times of the various sieges. Or the
Padmini Mahal, where an attacker of Chittaur, Allauddin Khilji, was allowed to only see
the water reflection of Rani Padmini, the queen of Chittaur, famous for her exquisite
beauty.
 Vijay Stambha (Victory tower)
The imposing nine story high architectural masterpiece at Chittaur is Rana Kumbha's great
Vijay Stambha that was built in Jain revivalist style. The splendidly carved original
panels depict a variety of Hindu gods and goddesses.
Kirti Stambha (Tower of Fame)
The seven stories Kirti Stambha, dating back to the 12th century and dedicated to the
great Jain Saint Adinath. Decorated with naked figure of various teachers thus indicating
that is Digambara, or Sky Clad, Monument.
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