After Knowing The History Of Chittorgarh, You Will Fall In Love With Padmavati!

Padmavati has become the most awaited movie of 2017 after its trailer was launched. The story of Rani Padmavati and immense power of Alauddin Khilji, portrayed by Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh respectively is slaying. But there's more to the movie's magic. The time and kingdom, in which the movie is set is the most intriguing point. The history of Chittorgarh has been one of the most exciting chapters of the Indian history

Facts & History of Chittorgarh:

• Chittorgarh is the home to Asia's largest fort, Chittorgarh fort.
• It is a UNESCO world heritage site.
• The Chittorgarh Fort was built during the 7th century AD by the mauryans & was named after the mauryans ruler "Chitrangada Mori", & was used until 1568.
• In 1303, Alauddin Khalji defeated the Guhila king Rattan Singh and captured the Chittorgarh fort.
• The fort was then captured by Hammir Singh, a rule of the Guhilas only.
• Chittor became prominent during the reign of Rana Kumbha and Rana Sangha.
• In 16th century, the Chittorgarh fort was captured by the Mughal ruler Akhbar.

Chittorgarh was amongst the most battled seats of the Indian history. Below are some of the most interesting incidences in the history of Chittorgarh, which took place in nearly two centuries.

The Story Of Rani Padmavati And Invasion Of Alauddin Khilji

Rani Padmini, also known as Rani Padmavati was the queen of Chittor. She was known for her charm, beauty, and wit. The Sultan of Delhi, Alauddin Khilji was intrigued by her stories and wanted to meet her. Khilji's army surrounded Chittor, and the sultan sent a message to the kingdom's king and Rani Padmavati's husband, Rana Rattan Singh. He said that he would spare the city if he could meet Rani Padmavati. It was then decided that the sultan could look at Rani Padmavati's reflection, only if he came unarmed into the fort. Obeying the orders, Khilji caught a glimpse of Rani Padmavati's beauty. As he was escorted to the outer gate, Khilji's men waiting in an ambush, took Rana Rattan Singh in hostage.

It was one of the most crucial times in the History of Chittorgarh. People were in a fix until Rana Padmavati devised a plan. Khilji was informed that Rani was going to meet her. Rajput warriors went inside the camps of Khilji and rescued Rattan Singh. But, around 7,000 Rajput warriors died in the process. Now, the sultana attacked Chittor with a greater power and aggression. After having so many warriors killed, Chittor was in a difficult state. This made the queen and her entourage to perform jauhar, the custom of mass self-immolation. The men with stunned faces donned saffron robes and fought the enemy till death.

Rana Kumbha (1433-68)

Rana Kumbha is known to play a great role in the history of Chittorgarh. In his regime, he made Chittorgarh, a huge cultural centre, whose fame spread across India. Out of the 84 fortresses that form the defense of Mewar, 32 were built by Kumbha.

Rana Sangha (1509-27)

Rana Sanga was a great warrior. His reign witnessed a series of continual battles, in which, he is said to have lost one arm and 84 wounds in the body along with a crippled leg.

Maharana Pratap (1572-97)

Maharana Pratap was a very ferocious ruler. He was extremely adamant about not letting the throne of Chittor go to anyone. Post-1579, following rebellions in Bengal, Punjab and Bihar, Akbar loosened his base on Mewar. Pratap took advantage of the situation and won over the place.

-by Megha Acharya of NewsGram.