भुजा में गाढ़ घणे रो रक्त का बहाता नदी नाळा,
बल दिखावण आगे रैता बूंदी रा बांका हाड़ा।
It is popularly believed that Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling penned part of his famous novel ‘Kim’ in Bundi. In fact, so impressed was he by the place, that this is what he wrote about the Bundi palace: ‘Jaipur Palace may be called the Versailles of India … Jodhpur’s House of strife, gray towers on red rock, is the work of giants, but the Palace of Bundi, even in broad daylight, is such a palace as men build for themselves in uneasy dreams – the work of goblins rather than of men.’
The city of fantasy is arguably one of the most famous cities in the fantasy canon, serving as the capital of the Royal Hada Chauhan's Kingdom of Bundi, Built into the side of the Aravalli Mountains Range, the city was originally a fortified castle, an outpost meant to keep guard against the depredations of the Desert cult Lord, Sultan of Mughal.
Is one of the most visually distinctive cities in fiction, oriented so that vertical space (rather than horizontal) is employed for maximum efficiency and defensive capability. The city rises more than 1426 feet above the Fields below surrounded by its own defensive wall. The city was designed with the idea that any invaded army would have to besiege and breach each wall in turn, all the while under arrow and missile fire from above. Thanks to extensive stores and the possibility of escape or resupply through the mountains behind the city, any attacker would also be forced to assault the city, as a siege would be ineffective.
Rajputana had been a land of Rajput kings and forts. The state has some of the most marvellous forts artistically and architecturally, Described as ‘the work of goblins’ by Rudyard Kipling, Bundi is a fairytale town in Rajasthan and totally out of step with time. Bundi is a magnificent town located around 36 kilometres from Kota.
Its remarkable architecture and picture-postcard surroundings will mesmerise you... Dotted with palaces and forts, the place has a fairy tale quality about it. Bundi’s charm lies in its location –surrounded by orchards of orange, guava, pomegranate and mango trees, flanked by the Aravalli range and rivers and lined by fields of cotton, barley and wheat. Situated far from the crowds, it is the simple rural folk that lend Bundi its allure.
Taragarh Fort Bundi is not only one of the oldest forts in Rajasthan but is also an artistic and architectural masterpiece. Bundi state was ruled by the Hada Chauhan Rajputs. Many historians claim that it was once the capital of the great Hadoti Kingdom, which was renowned for its art and sculpture. However, in 1624, Kota separated and became an independent state and this marked the beginning of the downfall of Bundi. Whether that may be, Bundi still retains its charismatic medieval grandeur. And just like Jodhpur Rajput, the architecture of Bundi also possesses a noticeable bluish hue, designed to keep houses cool during hot summer, in the intricately carved brackets and pillars.
Since most of the forts of present Rajasthan state are constructed in Rajput military style, this fort also shows some exceptional construction features. The Rajput school of architecture or Rajput style of architecture had dominated most of the construction which was later mixed with Mughal structural concepts. Taragarh Fort is an architectural masterpiece and exhibits exceptional designing and decoration which make it artistically beautiful. Constructed at an altitude of 1426ft on a wooded hill, the fort looks like a star in the sky and that’s why it was named so (Tara means Star). This fort is constructed in typical Rajputana architectural style unlike several other forts in Rajasthan
Fortress of Bowrie(Bundi), Rajputana
Artist: Westall, W (1781-1850)
C. 1826 From Capt.R.M. Grindlay's 'Scenery, Costumes and Architecture chiefly on the Western Side of India'
Bundi is a magnificent town located around 36 kilometres from Kota. Dotted with palaces and forts, the place has a fairy tale quality about it. Bundi’s charm lies in its location –surrounded by orchards of orange, guava, pomegranate and mango trees, flanked by the Aravalli range and rivers and lined by fields of cotton, barley and wheat. Situated far from the crowds, it is the simple rural folk that lend Bundi its allure.
Bundi was Founded and ruled by the Hada Chauhans. Many historians claim that it was once the capital of the great Hadoti Kingdom, which was renowned for its art and sculpture. However, in 1624, Kota separated and became an independent state and this marked the beginning of the downfall of Bundi. Whether that may be, Bundi still retains its charismatic medieval grandeur. And just like Jodhpur and Rajput, the architecture of Bundi also possesses a noticeable bluish hue, designed to keep houses cool during hot summer, in the intricately carved brackets and pillars.
Emergence of Hada Rajputs in Bundi:-
Rise of Hadas can be traced with far more certainity after Oeva managed to sieze Bundi from the Meena tribe in V.S. 1398/c. 1342. Meenas, an aboriginal tribe of Rajasthan was also known as Mer or Meh. The name seem to have been derived from their original habitat, the Arvali hills, since a hill is also known as Mer or Meh. Nainsi has mentioned Meena settlements starting from Oeolia in south of Mewar upto Mandor in west and Amer in northeastern Rajasthan. The description strengthens the view that Meenas had started spreading out from their hill abode to nearby plains to settle as cultivators much before the emergence of Rajput polity in Rajasthan. In the process of migration many sub divisions had emerged amongst the Meenas. Subjugating the Meenas had been an essential stage in emergence of Rajput polity in various parts of Rajasthan.
One of the earliest encounters was at Mandor in 12th century where Prithviraj had to fight against Mers in order to capture it. In connection of Mewar, Nainsi observed that at some places they lived as 'raitl white at other places as 'mewasl, implying that not every where they accepted the norms laid down by Rajput polity and continued to create trouble in various ways.
Rulers of Mewar Jagat Singh and Raj Singh had to chastise them even in the 17th century to pave the way for Rajput settlements. Bundi valley prior to Hada conquest was known as Bundo-nal, inhabited by the Meenas of Osara clan, considered being asli or of unmixed stock. Availability of alluvium plains in south east of the valley had transformed the Meenas into agriculturists. Agricultural development was facilitated by construction of Jait Sagar, by the Meena chief at that time. It continued to be known by the same name even upto 19th century, though it had been renovated and given a new name by the Hadas. The growth of this Meena settlement was facilitated by the high mountains in the north and west protecting it against encroachments from Chauhans and Guhils and by the River Chambal and thick forests (inhabited by Sheels) in the south east from Parmars who had made their presence felt at least upto Shergarh~. The Meena chief had closed the valley with barriers of masonary and gates though a regular city had not emerged till then
•According to Vamsh Bhaskar the Meena chiefs held a gras of twelve villages in this valley. Although, such an assignment was a set unit of land distribution and political control from the early days of Rajput polity known as trankupaka and rahdradvadasa, but in case of Meenas of Sundi, it is not possible to establish this grant. It can only be conjectured that Parmars of Malwa might have given such a grant to Meena chiefs and weakening of Parmars paved the way for its growth as an independent principality, The statement that" Jaita was trying to emulate the chatradharis,, perhaps refers to this process. It seems that the Meena principality had became a cause of concern for Dodiyas and Hadas who claimed to be the offshoots of Parmars and Chahmans respectively. The Hadas had been active in the southwest and Dodiyas in southeast of Bundi.
Harraj Dod (Parmar) regularly terrorized the Meenas to realize nalbandi (a tax). Taking advantage of the troubled situation, Deva was able to neutralize Dod Parmars and over power the Meenas with the help of Rana Ari Singh of Mewar, and the Solankis of Toda. Deva managed to subjugate the Meenas by resorting to treachery and deceit by inviting the Meena chief with his kinsmen on the pretext of marrying either a Srahamin's or his own beautiful daughter to a Meena boy. In another version of the story, Deva had invited the Meenas to marry the two daughters of a Golwal Chahman Jas raj, the pradhan of Meenas to Vigrah raj and Indra Duman the two sons of Jaita Meena. When the Meenas gathered for marriage they were slain and their camp was set on fire at night. Thus, the Meena bhumiyas were almost annihilated and the Hadas were able to establish their superior claim. The use of term 'bhumiyas' for Meenas even upto 17th century was rooted in the autochthonous claim of Meenas in the Bundi valley.
Establishment of Hada polity through exceptionally violent means is hi-lighted in the expression bhumiya sara kut maria and dharti ras padi. It suggests that Hadas were able to capture the fertile land of the valley from the Meenas and establish their claim to its produce. The use of brutal force combined with treachery in the process of establishment of Hada claim is found in all versions of the myth. In one of the myths, the factor of superior military skills of the Rajputs in establishment of Hada principality is also brought out very prominently.
The use of a horse by Har raj Dod well as Deva Hada mentioned in this context is Significant. Har raj Dod was portrayed as 'ekal aswar (a single horseman) yet ravaging their land. The failure of all efforts to check him depicted the power which a mounted cavalier could exercise against a whole group of people unfamiliar with the use of horse as a war machine. So the Meenas had engaged Deva Hada because he possessed a horse, which he had refused to part with even when it was requisitioned by the 'patshah' of Malwa, probably because he considered it to be the source of his strength.
The encounter between Har Raj and Deva is also described almost as an encounter between the two horses. The success, which Deva attained in combating Har Raj, was also related to his capability as a mounted warriors. Thus the success of Hadas was a result of their superior military skills used ruthlessly against the Meenas. Hadas had received direct support from Guhils and latent support from Dodiyas and Solankis to wipe out the Meenas. This collaboration amongst the Guhils and the offshoots of three major Rajput clans against the Meenas, gradually led to their marginalisation in the region. To strengthen his hold on the areas dominated by the Meenas Deva called his kinsmen to settle down around Bundi and posted his Jamiyat at various places. The horizontal spread of Hadas in the Bundi valley resulted in multiplication of Hada Khamps. There were three main Khamps (subdivisions) of Hadas in the region known as Navbrahma (sons of Lalla), Lohatiwala (sons of Lohat) and Miyanre-Gudhe re Hada (sons of Jabdu). The Khamps continued to multiply and came to refered as Hallu pote, Arjun pote, Narhad pote, Hathaut, Jaitawat, Naurang pote, Sthir Raj pote, Khajuri, Thurad, Sawat and Ramke Hadas etc. The horizontal spread of the Hadas was made possible by encountering small principalities of other Rajput clans around Bundi and across river chambal.
In the track north east of Bundi, which stretched upto river Chambal, Patan was a Mohil principality. Mohils, a subclan of Chahman of Sri Morpur, were the dhanis of Chapar, Dronpur popularly known a Mohilawati. Nainwa and Karwar were in the hands of Dahiyas, who were powerful around Parabatsar near Ajmer. Khatpur, Gainoli and Lakheri were gaud principalities. Gaud Rajput were initially powerful around Ajmer but with the rise of Chahmans started moving away and got dispersed to far off places. All these Rajput principalities around bundi were chastised by Deva to establish the hegemony of Hadas. However, a decisive success could have been gained only after a while as campaigns against Dahiyas and Gauds continued even during the period of Napa, the grandson of Deva. Eventually Hadas did succeed in subduing them and establish their dominance. The grant of some of these parganas in patta to Surjan by Rana Udai singh at the time of giving tika of Bundi in 16th century was in fact, a confirmation of position enjoyed by the Hadas in these areas. The Dahiyas later on were to be found even in the service of Hadas. For a while river Chambal remained the eastern boundary of the newly founded Hada principality. The obstacle posed by the river was over come in the period of Deva's son Samar Singh when his son Jaitra Singh attacked a Bheel settlement on the eastern bank of Chambal near Kanswa which was an ancient sight dating back to Naga and Mauryan period. An inscription of V. S. 795 mentions Dhavllap Maurya as overlord of Shivganga.
According to the popular legend the area was inhabited by Kotea Bheels who were considered to be of Ujla (unmixed /pure) descent. The Bheel chief, was slain and an elephant was erected at the place where he fell, which stands a place that came to be called Char Jhopra near the chief portal of the castle of Kota. Jaitra Singh's son Surjan gave the name of Kota to this abode of Bheels and built a wall around it. His son Dheer Deo excavated twelve lakes and dammed up the east of the town which Ws known by his name but later on as Kishor Sagar46. The other important gain of Hadas in the southeast was Khairavad and Ranthambhor in the north. The keys of fort Ranthambhor had been entrusted by rana Udai Singh to Rao Surjan. In the days of Afghan supermacy this fort had been entrusted by Salim Khan to his salve Jajhar Khan who with the collapse of Sur dynasty sold this fort to Rao Surjan, a powerful chief in the neighborhood of Ranthambhor, was a servant of Rana Udai Singh. Surjan built some houses in the fort and also seized the villages around Ranthambhor48. Hadas had been associated with the fort of Ranthambhor even earlier when Rana Sanga had granted the fort to his two sons from Hadi Karmeti, Vikramaditya and Udai Singh and Suraj Mall Hada had been appointed as their guardian.
Therefore, when Rao Surjan manipulated to get Ranthambhor from Afghans, Udai Singh in recognition of services rendered to him when he was a minor, conferred it on Hadas.
Ranthambhor being a prestigious and strategically located fort strengthened the position of Hadas in the northern part of the region. This encouraged the Hadas to challenge the Khinchi Rajputs in the south.
The Khinchi principality had been established by Dharu when the Dod Parmars had been weakened. Khinchis dominated the area on eastern and western bank of river Kali Sindh known as Khinchiwada which was commanded by twelve fortsso. They had suffered a blow when the seat of Khinchi power the fort of Gagraun was captured from Achal Das Khinchi by Sultan of Malwa in V.S. 1483/CE 1426. Gagraun had passed into hands of Mughals during the conquest of Malwa by Akbar. Man Singh defeated the Khinchi chief Raisal and the fort was placed in the charge of Rai Prithviraj of Bikaner. Finally the Hadas got the opportunity during the period of Jahangir, when Rao Ratan of bundi, was granted the pargana of Mau in inam and was asked to seize it from the Khinchis. Rao Ratan established his thanas and posted two thousand sawars in Khinchi domain, Khinchis resisted Rao Ratan's men many a times but vmen Raja Salwahan Khinchi was killed and their hold started dwindling, Rao Gopal of Mau Maidana accepted the imperial service. Khinchis of Chachami continued to resist the Hada Mughal combine lead by a Sindhal Rajput princess who was the mother of Khinchi Bagha. However after her death chacharni was also capured by Nauser Khan. Mau, Gugor, Chachami, Behu, Ghati, Ghatoli Chardo all became of Hada principality.
Later on, Shahjahan granted the fort of Gagraun also to Rao Mukund singh of Kota in jagir. The Khinchis remained zortalab through out the Mughal period. So the Mughals had to adopt the policy of using Hadas against Khinchis which came as blessing in disguise for Hadas. Even after the decline of Mughal power Khinchi-Hadas conflict went on till 18th century. Durjan Sal had attempted to capture fort of Gugor but was compelled to retreat by the Khinchis in c54. Stepping into Khinchiwada had brought the Hadas into fresh conflict with the Bheels. Bheels had recovered much of their ancient inheritance in the intricate tract on the southern frontiers of Hadauti.
Bhagirath Bheel had joined the Mughal service during Shahjahan's period. The chief place of the Bheels was now Khatakheri (Manoharthana) where the king of Bheels, Chakrasen resided, whose person was attended by five hundred horses and eight hundred bowmen, and to whom all the various tribes of Bheels from Mewar to extremity of the plateau, owed obedience. Bhagwat Singh younger brother of Rao Bhao Singh of Bundi, captured it in c.1661. After Aurangzeb's death Sheern Singh of Kota with the help of Saiyyid brothers got the grant of Mau Maidana, Shergurh, Saran, Mangrole and Sarod and entrusted the task of subjugation of Sheels to the chief of Narsinghgurh and Rajgarh.
Thus by the beginning of 18th century Hadas had gained a dominant position in all the three present districts of Bundi, Kota and Jhalawar. Political rise of Hadas began at a time when the Ghuils had been weakened considerably by the Turkish onslaught. Muhammed Tuglaq had entrusted the fort of Chittor to MaJdeo Sonigara of JaJor to keep the Guhil resistance in check. After the Guhils recaptured chittor in middle of 14th century, Maldeo sonigara's son Banveer had allowed to occupy Bhainsrodgarh since he had accepted the overlordship of the Guhils of Mewa~. Thus the Guhils for a while were keen to maintain cordial relations with the neighboring Rajput principalities and clans to Support their own house in order. The help which they had extended to the Hadas in capturing Bundi, had made Deva agree for chakri and to go for mujra (to salute) on Dussera to the court of Rana of Mewar. The Guhils gradually recovered their lost grounds but in the meantime the Hadas had succeeded in consolidating their position in the area around Bundi.
The relationship between Mewar and Bundi reached a point of confrontation, as Maharana Hammir Singh and his successors were keen to maintain the Guhil supremacy while the Hadas feeling confident of their position resisted the Guhil raids on their territory. Later Kumbha succeeded in conquering many forts of Hadauti perhaps even Bundi and exacting tribute. By the time of Rana Sanga, Hadas had accepted the overlordship of Mewar. They were paying tribute and attending the court the Mewar as well as rendering chakri (service) to the rulers of Mewar. Mundu Monialties between the two had also developed. Narayandas Hada had imprisoned the ruler of Mandu on behalf of Rana Sanga, and Suraj Mall had been appointed the guardian of Rana Sanga's minor son~ from Rani Karmati Hadi. The relationship of Hadas with Mewar had got strained after Sanga's death when for a while Ratan Singh and Suraj Mall encountered and killed each other. It • normalized once Udai Singh succeeded to the throne of Mewar and was during this period that the fort of Ranthambhor and seven other parganas; (Patan, Kota, Khatkar, Lakheri, Nainwa, Anterda and Khairavad) were granted in patta to Rao Surjan, as chief of Bundi after removing Rao Surtan.
Thus Hadas had established their hegemony over a large area by 16th century, initially by taking advantage of the weakened position of Guhils and afterwards, by confronting and resisting the Guhil claim of supremacy. They were ultimately sandwiched between powerful sultans of Malwa and Ranas of Mewar and had little option but to accept the sovereignty of Mewar, in order to save the position which they had gained around Bundi.
The Fort contains several structures, impressive palaces which were later added consequently by the kings who ruled over here and added to the beauty of this fort. Though most of the Rajput forts in Rajasthan were constructed with sandstones Taragarh Fort has been constructed with green-coloured serpentine stones. This type of stone was quarried from the local areas only. It was challenging to do carving work on this stone; thus the fort’s walls were decorated incredibly which gave it an exceptional beauty.
Sawai Jai Singh of Jaipur added more fortification to the fort in the 18th century. The fort looks like a rhomboid in shape. Most of the buildings and structures built inside the fort are located towards the southern end which overlooks Nawal Sagar Lake, Bundi town and Garh Palace. The fort has several bastions.
Bhim Burj is the largest among them. Deep water reservoirs have been constructed at Chauhan bastion which could contain a large amount of water during emergencies. Large cannon Garbh Gunjan is placed on Bhim Burj. The cannon is said to be so massive that it would create a loud thundering sound when fired. Bhim Burj also means Thunder from the Womb.
Gates of taragarh
The fort has three different gates also known as Pole, namely Lakshmi Pol, Phuta Door and Gaugudi Gate. The main entrance is from the car parking side where the ticket office is based. Other than these gates, there are many entrances inside the gate such as Pol Hazari (Thousand Gate), Hathi Pol (built by Raja Ratan Singh in the 17th century) which has the incredible decoration of colour elephant models.
Hati Pol in Taragarh Fort at Bundi is an architectural splendour. Built in Rajput architectural style a major draw of the fort are two elephants as a part of the arch decoration.
While actually there were four gates: the western gate was called Bhairon Gate while the eastern gate was called Palanpol, the southern gate was called Chogan gate while the northern gate was called Sukul Baori gate.
Garh Palace of Taragarh Fort Bundi
Among the finest palaces of Rajasthan, Garh Palace (Bundi Palace) is a marvellous structure which highlights the epitome of Rajput architecture. The palace is said to have been built between 1607AD to 1631AD by Raja Rao Ratan Singh Hada. The palace is known for impressive artwork belonging to Bundi School of Paintings. The palace is accessible through the Hathi Pole. Two iconic palaces inside Garh Palace are Badal Mahal and Phool Mahal. Both of these two are painted with impressive artwork inspired by Chinese ceiling artwork.
Another main structure inside Garh Palace is Ratan Daulat which was constructed by Maharao Ratan Singh. There’s a throne of white marble which overlooks the courtyard. Maybe, the raja used to sit here. Maharaja Chhatrasal Singh built Chhatra Mahal which has splendid murals painted in turquoise green along with yellow colours. The statue of a horse and elephant can be seen. The statue of elephant belongs to Shivaprasad elephant which was gifted by Shahjahan as a gift to Chhatrasal while the horse statue is dedicated to Hanza horse, the war steed of Raja Ummed Singh.
The fort is now a major tourist attraction of Bundi and is visited by both Indian and foreigners around the year. The walls of the fort have turned greenish dark over the time since the fort was constructed with green serpentine stones. Many of the structures inside the fort are now closed. A part of the fort is demolished and is inaccessible due to no proper way which passes through the jungle.
Forts like this are a live heritage which should be kept preserved so that everyone could see them. These forts have been kept in this situation after lots of efforts put in restoration and preservation.
Watercolour painting of the town and pass of Bundi in Rajasthan, by an anonymous artist working in the British school, c. 1840. Inscribed on the back in ink is: 'The town and Pass of Bondi in Rajpootana. No. 72.'
During the ancient times, Bundi was inhabited by the local tribes, particularly the parihar Meenas. It is said that the name ‘Bundi’ was actually derived from the previous Meena king named ‘Bunda Meena’. Over the course of time, the region of Bundi was overtaken by Rao Deva Hada in 1342 and thus began the rule of the Maharao of Bundi who dominated the region for many centuries.
At one time, Bundi encompassed present-day areas of Kota, Jhalawar and Baran. The Maharaos of Bundi developed a close alliance through matrimony with the Sisodia clan of Mewar and also allied with them during times of war. History has it that the great Mughal Emperor Akbar tried to conquer Ranthambore, which was ruled by the Hada Rajputs of Bundi, but failed at doing so after trying thirteen times. This prompted the Mughal emperor to forge an alliance with Maharao Surjan who placed conditions that gave the Mughals limited access to their region in exchange for Ranthambore.
During the British regime, Rao Raja Bishan Singh developed a great relationship with Colonel Monson and even assisted him in conquering other neighboring kingdoms. His son, Maharao Raja Ram Singh was one of the most prominent kings of Bundi who established educations institutions and also introduced administrative and economic reforms. Throughout his rule, Bundi enjoyed the confidence of the British.
Present day Bundi has fine remnants of the fine architectural legacy left behind by the illustrious Maharaos of Bundi and has also become a popular tourist destination. Bundi has pure Rajput style of architecture without a touch of Mughal influence. The Maharaos of Bundi were great patrons of art and architecture and therefore the magnificent palaces have intricate frescoes that adorn the ceilings and walls of the palaces and showcase the valor and royalty of the kings of Bundi. From Baoris (stepwells) to forts, palaces and temples- there are many monuments that resonates the glory of its Rajput rulers.
Bundi joined the Federation of Rajasthan on 25 March 1948.
Maharajas of Bundi
Ram Singh 1821-1889
महाराव राजा श्री रघुवीर सिंह जी व क्वीन मेरी (1911) ,हथियाशाल का रियासतकालीन दृश्य,तारागढ़ बून्दी
यह अंतिम समय था जब तारागढ़ का जीर्णोद्धार किया गया था।
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| Col. H.H. Maharao Raja Shri Sir Raghubir Singh Sahib Bahadur, G.C.I.E , G.C.V.O., K.C.S.I. Artist - Raj Jangid |
Raghubir Singh 1889-1927
Ishwari Singh 1927-1945
Bahadur Singh 1945-1977
A faced sun radiant in Bundi Palace
The figure may have been the ancient emblem of the Mughal Emperors or, later, the emblem of the maharajas of Bundi.
Fresco in Bundi Palace
Standard and Banner
On a fresco in Bundi Palace, dating from the 16th-17th century and dedicated to the victories of the Maharajas of Bundi, the army of Bundi is depicted.
The standard of Bundi on it is a three pointed cloth of five hoizontal stripes, probably of five different colours like the standards or flags of Jodhpur and Jaipur.
The banners are red and have three points and a yellow edge. They show a sword, a kutar and a shield together with a Buddhapada, the footprints of the Buddha and a cobra.
Ram Singh was granted an achievement western style in 1877:
Arms: Or, a demi-man Sable issuant of flames holding in his dexter a sword and in his sinister a bow all proper, in chief a dagger of the second sheated Vert fess-wise over seven arrows in sheaf of the second.
Crest: On a helmet affrontée, lambrequined Or and Sable, a dexter hand holding in bend a kutar proper, hilted Or.
Supporters: Two cows proper.
Motto: SRI RANGES BHAKT (Devoted to Lord Ranges).
Portrait of H.H. Maharao Raja Sir Ramsinghji Bahadur(1811-88), GCSI, CIE.Late Chief of Bundi (Rajputana).
Ishwari Niwas, Bundi
This magnificent and huge mansion was built during the reign of Maharao Raja Ishwari Singh, and houses more than 24 lavish rooms.
Currently it is the official residence of Maharao's brother-Maharaj Kesri Singh. Build around 100 years ago, this place is a grand example of European style of architecture. The rooms inside it have been furnished brilliantly, and provide the guests with all modern amenities.
Chitrashala of Taragarh Fort Bundi
Chitrashala (art gallery) was built by Raja Rao Umed Singh; thus also named as Ummed Mahal. This place has open art galleries. The arts and murals done on the walls, ceilings and floors are the finest examples of Bundi wall painting style. These paintings represent court life, Raas Leela, beautiful women, Radha-Krishna, Ragamala, etc. The paintings are kept preserved in every way required and thus look fresh even today.
A delicate wall painting in one of the many rooms in the labyrinth that is the Taragarh Palace Bundi
Though the entire fort is full of impressive murals and frescoes, this open art gallery has its unique charm. The colourful walls narrate the stories of a bygone era which is kept preserved for the coming generation to see and understand the glorious Rajput past.
Detail from a painting at the Chitrashala, Taragarh Palace, Bundi
A bejeweled nayika at the Kota Garh Palace
While the architecture or scale of your palaces and forts may not be as grand as the ones in other parts of Rajasthan, the surprises and treasures within more than made up for it, and translated my visits into unique and enriching experiences.
A pilgrim map at Chitrashala, Taragarh palace, bundi
Be it the sculptures, paintings or manuscripts at the Jhalawar Garh Palace or the painted rooms in the Kota Palace, or the location and paintings at the Taragarh Palace in Bundi, or the view from Gagron Fort — everything was a discovery of delight.
And where do we begin even talking about the temples and shrines that one visit, not to mention the rock-cut Buddhist caves at Kolvi? The composite sculptures, new styles, their location — especially that of the Bhand Devra Temple — left everyone asking for more.
The ones have a sneaky feeling that you had laid out a special show to know in advance that love temples and temple architecture and art?
The very name Rajasthan conjures up a dry and arid region and while we are aware that this is not a uniform feature across the state, anyone will be surprised by the abundance of water bodies in Hadoti. From rivers to lakes to ponds to stepwells — it was difficult to wrap thier head around so much water in Rajasthan.
Bundi is famous for its 50-odd ancient wells and tanks, sources of water in a land known for its aridity. Baolis had utilitarian value and were centres of religious and social existence. The rich considered building these marvels of craftsmanship and architecture a sacred act.
Rani ji's Baudi (Bundi)
Raniji Ki Baori, built in 1699 by Rao Anirudh Singh ji hada's queen ladakanvara ji nathavata made this grand stepwell is one of the popular step wells in Bundi Town, Rajasthan. It is the largest Baori in Bund with about 50 stairs. During the medieval era, this baori was very popular meeting place for the local people for social and religious reasons. It has a narrow entrance with stone structures of elephants facing each other and is a multistoried structure. At the entrance, there are four pillars, which showcases beautiful figurine and there is a tall standing arch shaped gate.
HISTORY
As the history behind this baori goes, Rani Nathavati Ji was the younger wife of ruler Rao Raja Anirudh Singh. She gave birth to a son, Maharao Raja Budh Singh. But the previous wife of the king who was unable to give birth to a baby became envious of the younger queen. Thus, Rani Nathavati Ji gave her son to the previous queen of the raja and devoted herself for the well being of the common man. This is the reason she started the construction of this Raniji Ki Baori.
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| The beautiful carvings at the Rani ji ki Baori, Bundi. |
It was just as shocking to see the state of the stepwells and the colossal mismanagement of water resources that you are blessed with a worshipping place at each of the floors of the stepped well. Raniji Ki Baori is well carved with ogee bracket work.
Dhabhai Kund
Dhabhai Kund (south of Raniji-ki-Baoli) creates a fascinating geometry with its steps and deserves a visit despite its abysmal state.
Nagar Sagar Kund
A pair of matching step-wells (just outside Chogan Gate) are called Nagar Sagar. Located outside the Chauhan Gate, the Nagar Sagar Kund, a set of twin step wells, was constructed to provide water during times of famine.
The 16th-century Bhoraji-ka-Kund (north of Nawal Sagar) is impressive and attracts birdlife post-monsoon. In Bundi, you will often cross one stepwell or the other. Sadly, the state of most of them evinces neglect.
Sukh Mahal, Bundi
Sukh Mahal, built during the reign of Umed Singh is positioned by the lake Jait Sagar. The main attraction of Sukh Mahal is a white marble Chhatri or an umbrella. There is an amazing Umbrella at the terrace of the second storey of the mahal. This Chhatri is the prime attraction of Sukh Mahal.
As the name suggest, the motive behind the creation of the Sukh Mahal was to add to the pleasure of the princes who used it to carry out their evil deeds. The princes staying in this Sukh Mahal used to hunt boars in the close by forest areas.
Also popular as Sukh Sagar and Palace of Bliss, it was host to Rudyard Kipling who wrote “Kim” during his stay here in the 19th century. It is one of the most visited summer palace situated near Kota at Bundi. With the hill at the backstage, and being surrounded by luxuriant and thriving garden, Sukh Mahal is a treat to the tourists. It lies by the lake Jait Sagar which makes it appear as if its foundation is under the water. It is designed with some superb statues and typical Bundi art. One can find a touch of Mughal art in the paintings that adorn the walls of the palace. Another interesting fact about this Mahal is that it is said to be connected with the old palace through a hidden underground tunnel made to ensure safe escape for the king and others in his kingdom in case of any attack.
Sukh Mahal, with its beautiful setting is a sought after site in Bundi as it offers peace and a sense of calmness to its visitors away from the hassles of daily city life. It is surely worth a visit. It is now turned into a museum and is open for the visitors to see around the palace.
Jait Sagar Lake, Bundi.
Considered as an important tourist attraction in Bundi, Jait Sagar Lake is situated amidst lush green lands.
This 1.5 km long lake can act as a rejuvenating experience for all the travellers on their tour to Bundi. On the bank of the river, one can see the terrific carvings of elephants.
Lake Nawal Sagar, Bundi.
Lake Nawal Sagar is one of the most important tourist attractions of Bundi. Different baoris surrounds this lake in all its sides. There is a Temple of Lord Varuna, i.e the Aryan God of Water, situated at the centre of this lake and it attracts large number of worshippers. The temple is partly underwater and boat service is available to help the followers to reach the temple.
The best aspect of the lake that primarily attracts the tourist is that it reflects a mirror image of the forts and palaces in its water. It was created with the aim of providing water to the various step wells that are there in Bundi to deal with water scarcity.
The Nawal Sagar lake can be best viewed from above the Taragarh Fort or by the road lying adjacent to the lake. The lake looks beautiful at night when it is decorated with lights and amazing reflection falls in the water. A daytime visit to the lake can be comfortable as one can enjoy cool weather.
There is a palace near the Lake Nawal Sagar, which is basically a 300 years old historical property which has now been restructured as a hotel.
Phool Sagar, Bundi.
It is a well-planned structure that is decorated with Rajput style frescos. Located in an isolated place, it is famous for its lush green fields, rich variety of flora and fauna, magnificent palatial structures, and winding ways.
This place has mesmerized the famous author Rudyard Kipling, and one can see the narration about this place in his famous literary work.
Indergarh Fort, Bundi
Though dilapidated, some fort areas still bear traces of exquisite murals depicting court scenes and legends. tndergarh’s two main temples, one dedicated to Bijasan Mata (a form of Durga) and the other to Kuanwalji (Lord Shiva), are popularplaces of worship for pilgrims.
Indergarh fort and various ancient temples in the city tell the story of its 4-5 centuries old Indian heritage. Main attraction of the city are Bijasan Mataji mandir, Kamaleshwar Mahadev, Shri Shantinath Digambar Jain mandir(Nasiyan ji) and Bada Jain mandir which has some antique Statues(Pratima) of Jain Thirthankars that can not be seen anywhere in the world as told by Jain Saints.
84 Pillared Cenotaph, Bundi.
84-Pillared Cenotaph is an umbrella situated at Devapura to the south of Bundi town in Rajasthan. Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri, as it is also known, was constructed in the year 1683 by the Maharaja of Bundi, Rao Raja Anirudh in memory of his nurse, Deva, under whose love and guidance the prince grew up. He was very fond of Deva, thus he constructed 84-Pillared Cenotaph in her honor. It is also widely known as "Music Maharani's Chhatri. It is said, that one cannot count all the 84 beams at a time.
The umbrella is a double storied structure that is beautifully decorated with artistic figures depicting the art that was prevalent back then. At the upper level, the core chattri is supported with 16 pillars. This umbrella consists of 4 chattri placed on the 4 corners of the structure. At the lower level of 84-Pillared Cenotaph, a large Shiv Linga is placed which is protected by a marvelously adorned roof top that stands strong with the support of 84 pillars. These pillars together are called “chaurasi khamba”. Thus, the name 84-Pillared Cenotaph has been given to the structure.
Over the period, a section of Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri has been damaged. But this in no way dampens the spirit of the tourists who visit this sight in large number to be a part of its history. 84 Pillar Cenotaph is a very important tourism sight in Bundi.
Kshar Bagh
The Kshar Bagh is a historical ancient Heritage garden which is alive example of the exhibits beautifully constructed mausoleum & it is near to the Shikar Burj, Nayapura Circle Kota also it very close to Chhatra Vilas Garden which is also known as CV garden and has the cenotaphs of the former rulers of Kota City. The striking commemorative plaques of previous Bundi’s Hada rulers are placed in these majestic garden.
They are excellent examples of the old ancient architecture of Maharaja’s & King’s time. Cenotaphs in Kesar Bagh Kota, are located in the opposite side of Sukh Sagar, is a garden which is built in order to house the cenotaphs of the royal members of Bundi. The cenotaphs include tombs of various Bundi rulers, princes, queens etc. The first was built at 1581 and the last one was built in 1821. While you visit cenotaphs in Kesar Bagh, you will see different tombs along with short description of the person. A chronological order is maintained while the cenotaphs were constructed, so that the visitors can clearly understand the relevance and the time period in which that particular king, queen, prince or princes belonged to.
Even though the garden has lost all its previous glory and is covered by tall grasses and reeds, the cenotaphs at Kesar Bagh Kota still reflect the past glory. There are 65 memorials which are created in memory of the royal family and still remind you of the lost glory of the kings and Hada Chauhanas of Bundi.
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