Jaisalmer Fort history

 

Jaisalmer Fort (also known as Sonar Qila or Golden Fort) is a historic and magnificent fort located in the Thar Desert of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is considered to be one of the most prominent and beautiful forts in India.

 

Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, who was a Bhati Rajput ruler.

This fort is situated on Trikuta Hill, from which it keeps an eye on the surrounding desert area. From which it keeps an eye on the surrounding desert area.

 

When Rawal Jaisal found Lodhrava (the old capital area) unsafe, he built this fort on the top of Trikuta Mountain. He chose this place for astrological and strategic reasons, so that this fort could keep an eye on enemies from far away.

 

This fort is made of yellow sandstone, which appears golden in sunlight – hence it is called “Sonar Qila”. It is one of the few “living forts” in the world, as even today about 2000 people live inside it.

 

This fort of Jaisalmer has witnessed many Mughal invasions. – Invasion of Alauddin Khilji (1294 AD) – This was the first major attack on Jaisalmer Fort, when Sultan Alauddin Khilji of the Delhi Sultanate attacked.

 

The reason was the looting of caravans passing through Delhi by Bhati Rajputs.

The attack on this fort lasted for about 8 years, after which the fort was sieged.

When there was no possibility of rescue, the Rajput women committed Jauhar and the men died fighting.

This is called the first Jauhar.

 

 

The story of the first Jauhar is one of the most heroic, heart-rending and glorious events in the history of Jaisalmer Fort. This incident reflects the extraordinary spirit of self-sacrifice of the Rajputs and the tradition of sacrificing their lives to protect dignity.

 

Jauhar was a practice in which Rajput women would commit suicide by jumping into a fire en masse to avoid humiliation by enemies in case of defeat in battle. After this, the men would fight only to the death on the battlefield, which is called Shaka.

 

Second Invasion (Mid 16th Century):-  By this time the Mughal Empire was at the peak of its power. Akbar and his successors had captured many forts of Rajasthan.

 

The Bhati rulers of Jaisalmer, understanding the situation, entered into a treaty with the Mughals.

They started paying tribute to the Mughal emperors and maintained mutual peace.

After this treaty, Jaisalmer got some peace from the invasions, and trade activities increased.

Situation during the British period: In the 19th century, Jaisalmer also established relations with the British East India Company.

 

The Bhati kings maintained the autonomy of their principality along with the British, but external invasions did not happen anymore.

 

 

The history of Jaisalmer Fort is full of glorious, exciting and heroic stories. This fort is not only important from the architectural point of view, but it is also a symbol of Rajputana culture of Rajasthan, Rajput valor and desert tactical strategies.

 

This fort of Jaisalmer is situated about 250 feet above sea level. This fort has about 99 bastions, most of which were built in the 17th century. The fort has four big entrance gates – Akhai Pol, Suraj Pol, Ganesh Pol, and Hawa Pol. Inside the fort is the Raj Mahal, which houses royal remains and murals of old times.

 

Today Jaisalmer Fort is not only a historical heritage, but is also famous as a vibrant, cultural and tourist center. This fort is still alive – that is, people live here, life goes on, trade happens, and religious activities also continue.

 

 

Main attractions of Jaisalmer Fort:

Raj Mahal (Royal Palace):-  Old royal courts, jharokhas and collection of weapons.

Bhagwan Laxminath Temple:-  One of the oldest Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Laxmi.

Jain Temples (12th–16th century):-  7 magnificent temples built in Dilwara style, famous for fine carvings.

 

Havelis (palace houses):-  Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, these havelis were built by rich merchants and are famous for carved balconies and walls.

 

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