Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur: An Important Chapter of Indian History

Construction and History

Architectural Art

Lohagarh Fort is celebrated for its unique architectural style. It has two main gates: the northern gate, called the Ashtadhatu Gate, and the southern gate, known as the Chauburja Gate. The Ashtadhatu Gate is adorned with large paintings of war elephants and is constructed from eight different metals. It is said to have been brought from the Chittorgarh Fort after the Jats attacked Delhi.

Major Structures

Within the fort, several important structures exist, such as Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas, Kothi Khas, and Moti Mahal. Additionally, towers like Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj were built by Maharaja Suraj Mal to commemorate his victories over the Mughals and the British. The Kamra Mahal, formerly used as an armory and treasury, has been converted into a museum.

The Fort Museum

The Lohagarh Fort Museum is renowned for its collection, which includes Jain sculptures, carvings of Yaksha, an array of weapons, and manuscripts in Arabic and Sanskrit. Notable exhibits include a red sandstone Shiva Linga and carvings of Nataraja.

History of Bharatpur

Bharatpur’s history dates back to the 5th century BCE when it was part of the Matsya kingdom. It is believed that Bharatpur is named after Bharat, the younger brother of Lord Rama. Known as the ‘Eastern Gateway to Rajasthan,’ Bharatpur is also famous for the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s major bird-watching sites.

Travel and Tourism

Lohagarh Fort is a major tourist attraction in Bharatpur, drawing history enthusiasts, tourists, and photographers throughout the year. The best time to visit is between August and September. The fort is accessible by bus, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw.

Lohagarh Fort remains a significant part of Indian history and culture, celebrated not only for its architectural artistry but also for its uniqueness and historical importance.

Establishment of Bharatpur State

The Bharatpur state was established in 1722 by Jat King Badan Singh. The state has a notable place in history, with its rulers known for their courage and strategic skills.

List of Bharatpur Rulers

1. Gokula (1670 – 1671): First Jat leader to rebel against the Mughals.
2. Raja Ram (1671 – 1688): Gokula’s nephew who succeeded him.
3. Raja Churaman (1688 – 1721): Organized the Jat confederacy and built several forts.
4. Raja Badan Singh (1722 – 1756): Officially established Bharatpur and built the capital in Deeg.
5. Maharaja Suraj Mal (1756 – 1763): The most renowned ruler, known for his military conquests and expansion.
6. Jawahar Singh (1763 – 1768): Suraj Mal’s son who continued his legacy.
7. Ratan Singh (1768 – 1769): Ruled briefly after Jawahar Singh.
8. Keshavdas (1769 – 1778): One of the minor rulers.
9. Ranjit Singh (1778 – 1805): Defended against British forces.
10. Randhir Singh (1805 – 1823): Succeeded Ranjit Singh.
11. Baldev Singh (1823 – 1825): Short reign during turbulent times.
12. Balwant Singh (1825 – 1853): Reinforced the defense of the fort.
13. Jaswant Singh (1853 – 1893): Long reign marked by support for the British during the 1857 rebellion.
14. Ram Singh (1893 – 1900): Removed by the British.
15. Vishamber Singh (1900 – 1918): Ruled after Ram Singh.
16. Kishan Singh (1918 – 1929): Continued the legacy.
17. Brijendra Singh (1929 – 1947): Last ruler before Indian independence.

The rulers of Bharatpur played significant roles in Indian history, with their descendants remaining active in national and regional politics.