Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort is a profoundly significant site, bearing witness to the tragic yet valorous practice of ‘Jauhar’ performed by Rajput women. Jauhar was a collective act of self-immolation undertaken by women, often along with their children, to escape capture, enslavement, and dishonor at the hands of invading armies when defeat was certain.
Chittorgarh Fort is famously associated with three major Jauhars. The most legendary is the first, believed to have been led by Rani Padmini in 1303 CE when Alauddin Khalji besieged the fort. The second occurred in 1535 CE during Bahadur Shah of Gujarat’s invasion, led by Rani Karnavati. The third and final Jauhar took place in 1568 CE, as Mughal Emperor Akbar’s forces conquered the fort.
The Jauhar Kund, though now often a fenced-off area or a symbolic structure within the fort, serves as a poignant memorial to the immense sacrifices made by these women. It embodies the Rajput ideals of honor, courage, and defiance in the face of insurmountable odds, making it a powerful and somber point of interest for visitors to Chittorgarh Fort.
History Behind Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh
The Jauhar was performed in the year 1303 and was the first one in Chittorgarh. It was committed when Mewar was ruled by Rawal Ratan Singh and the central India was under the reign of Alauddin Khilji. Mewar area was becoming popular because of Zawar, Aguch, and Dariba, these areas were famous for the mining of precious metals. Khilji also heard about these places and decided to take his large army and march directly to Chittorgarh.
As soon as Khilji reached Chittorgarh, he demanded surrender from Rajputs. Rawal Ratan Singh denied surrender even though he was aware of the Khilji’s large army. Alauddin didn’t return to Delhi, instead decided to surround the fort and set-up camps. The blockade by Khilji lasted for 8 months. Slowly the supplies within the fort declined and finally, King Rawal Ratan Singh ordered that the gates of the fort will open and Rajputs will fight with the army of Khilji.
After this decision, the women of Chittorgarh were left to choices either to perform Johar or to be captured by Khilji’s army and face dishonor. Finally, the decision was in favor of mass self-immolation and a large pyre of fire was lit and Rani Padmani along with many women of Chittorgarh jumped into the fire. There are other stories as well revolving around Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort.
Places To Visit Around Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort
While visiting Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort, consider exploring these nearby attractions:
Vijay Stambh
Vijay Stambh, or the Tower of Victory, stands as a monumental tribute to Maharana Kumbha’s triumph in the 15th century over Malwa’s rulers. This nine-storey structure is a symbol of historical significance, with its detailed carvings reflecting the craftsmanship of the period. The tower is not only an architectural marvel but also offers panoramic views of the surrounding fort and landscape, making it a popular spot for history enthusiasts and tourists. Its unique design continues to inspire admiration for Rajasthan’s rich heritage.
Distance From Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort: 0.5 km
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Kirti Stambh
Kirti Stambh, or the Tower of Fame, is an iconic monument dedicated to the Jain saint Adinath. This seven-storey structure, built by a wealthy Jain merchant, is known for its detailed carvings and spiritual significance. It represents Jainism’s deep-rooted influence in Chittorgarh and is an important symbol of the region’s religious history. The tower demonstrates the area’s devotion to non-violence and peace, while its detailed stone carvings continue to attract historians and architecture enthusiasts.
Distance From Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort: 1 km
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Padmini Palace
Padmini Palace is popular for its association with Rani Padmini, the queen celebrated for her beauty and courage. Located near Jauhar Kund, this palace offers a glimpse into royal life, with its reflective surroundings and architectural details. The site carries historical significance as it played a role in the legendary siege of Chittorgarh. Visitors can experience a sense of the valorous tales from the past while walking through the remnants of the palace. This evokes the stories of bravery from the Rajput era.
Distance From Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort: 0.7 km
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Rana Kumbha Palace
The Rana Kumbha Palace is a historical marvel where numerous royal events once unfolded. Though now in ruins, the palace retains its grandeur and significance. Visitors are often struck by the scale of the structure. This includes subterranean cellars where royal women committed Jauhar. As a crucial part of the fort’s heritage, the palace is a reminder of the tumultuous history of the Rajputs and their strong cultural values. Its rich architectural features continue to draw those interested in Rajasthan’s regal past.
Distance From Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort: 0.4 km
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
How To Reach Jauhar Kund Chittorgarh Fort
Jauhar Kund is located within the expansive Chittorgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rajasthan, India. The fort itself is about 2 km from Chittorgarh city.
To reach Jauhar Kund, you first need to reach Chittorgarh Fort.
- By Road: Chittorgarh is well-connected by road. You can take regular bus services from major Rajasthani cities like Udaipur (approx. 120 km), Jaipur, and Ajmer. Taxis are also a convenient option, especially from Udaipur.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station is Chittorgarh Railway Station (COR), which has good connectivity to major Indian cities. From the station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the fort, which is approximately 5-6 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) in Udaipur, about 90 km from Chittorgarh. From there, you can hire a taxi or pre-booked cab to reach Chittorgarh Fort.
Once inside the vast Chittorgarh Fort complex, you’ll find Jauhar Kund. The fort is huge, so consider hiring a local auto-rickshaw or a guide-with-car to explore it efficiently, as walking to all points of interest, including Jauhar Kund, can be tiring due to the sheer size of the fort. Jauhar Kund is situated near Rani Padmini’s Palace and Rana Kumbha Palace.
