State PCS - Rajasthan (RAS)

• 11 Apr 2025

Chittaurgarh Fort

Why in News? 

The Rajasthan government informed the Supreme Court it is actively considering a total ban on mining activities within 10 km of Chittorgarh Fort. 

Key Points 

• About the fort: 
  • It is located in Chittorgarh of Rajasthan and is one of the largest forts in India. This fort is situated on a hill about 180 meters above sea level. 
  • This fort was built in the 7th century AD by  Chitrangada Mori, the ruler of the local Maurya dynasty. 
  • Later, in the year 728 AD, the rulers of Mewar took over and made it their capital. Chittorgarh has been the center of power and pride of Mewar in medieval India. 
  • According to Malik Muhammad Jayasi 's famous poem 'Padmavat' , Alauddin Khilji attacked this fort with the aim of acquiring Queen Padmini of King Ratan Singh of Mewar . 
  • This fort has also been associated with the heroic tales of many famous warriors like Badal, Gora, Maharana Pratap, Rana Kumbha, Patta, Jaimal. 
  • The fort was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. 
  • It is one of the seven hill forts that have been given the collective heritage status as 'Hill Forts of Rajasthan' . 
  • The major features of the fort include its seven gates – Padan Gate, Ganesh Gate, Hanuman Gate, Bhairon Gate, Jodla Gate, Laxman Gate and the main gate 'Ram Pol' 
  • The fort complex houses four major palaces , 19 temples (both Hindu and Jain), 20 water sources and four major monuments .