JODHPUR, Rajasthan

Main Attraction: MEHRANGARH FORT

One of the most impressive hill forts of Rajasthan is Mehrangarh Fort. It is so well built into the base that it is difficult to judge where the hill ends and the wall begins. It was founded in the 15th Century when they shifted their capital from nearby Mandor to Jodhpur. The fort is approached by seven gates. After having entered the gates one is faced with the Palace with it's astounding beauty. These palaces consist of Moti Mahal with its pierced screen windows overlooking the coronation seat, Janki Mahal the apartments from where the royal women would watch ceremonial events. Besides this there are the Chandan Mahal, Darbar Takhat, Rang Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Ummaid Vilas and Maan Vilas.

The fort from outside is sturdy and magnificent, once inside the fort, one is enchanted by its beauty and splendor.

Brief History

The history of Jodhpur is believed to have started from Stone Age. Fossils of early Stone Age have been found on the banks of Luni River. Instruments of Neolithic age have been found in places of Luni, Pipar, Pichiyak, Shikarpur etc whereas remnants of old age have been found in places near Bilara.

In ancient period the nearby region of Jodhpur was called as 'Meru Desh' which later on was known as Marwar. Jodhpur had been empire of Rajput rulers of Parihar, Chauhan and Rathor dynasties. The tolerance had been an attribute of Parihar Rajputs as is evident from different temples dedicated to Vishnu, Shiva or Devi. Apart from Jain temples other temples are located in Osian Ghatiyala, Mandore, Buchkala, Pipar and Soyla. Jodhpur (Mandore) was the capital of erstwhile state of Marwar prior to its merger in 1949. Rao Jodhaji laid down foundation of Jodhpur on 12th May 1459 AD, with the start of building of massive fort on the hills of "Chiriya Nathji Ki Took". During the period of Rao Jodhaji, Jodhpur was confined to a very small area lying within four gates viz. Bhagipole, Puserao Ki Pole, Bhomiyoji Ke Ghatiwali Pole and Singhpole. Its expansion had taken place during Rao Maldeo's period in 16th century AD. A rampart along with 24000 ft. long, 9 feet wide and 39 feet high wall around the fort was constructed, in which later on Jalori Gate, Sojati Gate, Merti Gate, Nagori Gate and Siwanchi Gate were built by Maharaja Bakht singh.

Remnants of the Gupta and Post Gupta periods of 4th to 8th centuries A.D. have been found from the archaeological excavations. Stone idols, engraved earthen pot and 30 small coins of Arab triton were among the material found from excavation. Two beautiful pillars are being preserved in the Museum, which shows that, worshipping of Lord Krishna was very popular during 4th -5th century A.D.

With the occupation of the area by Rathores, Jodhpur played a prominent role in the mediaeval history. Maldeo, Jodha, Udai Singh, Jaswant Singh and Ajit Singh are the names well known in Indian history. The fort of Jodhpur is unique strategically as well as artistically. The cenotaphs of the Rathore rulers located at Mandore and Jaswant Thada are fine specimens of art and architecture. The city abounds in richly carved temples and baories (step wells), mosques etc. Ummed Bhawan, where the inmates of the royal family still reside is an excellent example of the architecture of the present century.

The district derives its name from its principal city Jodhpur; locally known as ‘Jodhana’ founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 A.D. Rulers of Jodhpur were Rao Jodha 1438-1488, Satal 1488-1491, Suja 1491-1515, Ganga 1515, Ganga (II) 1515-1531, Maldeo 1531-1583, Raja Udaya Singh 1583- 1594, Raja Sura Singh 1594-1619, Raja Gajsingh 1619-1637, Raja Jaswant Singh 1637-1680, Raja Ajit Singh 1680-1724, Maharaja Abhi Singh 1724- 49, Maharaja Rama Singh 1749-50, Maharaja Bhagat Singh 1750-52, Maharaja Bijej Singh 1752-92, Maharaja Bhim Singh 1792-1803, Maharaja Man Singh 1803-17, Maharaja Chatter Singh 1817-18, Maharaja Man Singh 1818-43, Maharaja Takhat Singh 1843-73, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II 1873-95, Maharaja Sardar Singh 1895-1911, Maharaja Sumer Singh 1911- 18, Maharaja Ummed Singh 1918-47, Maharaja Hanwant Singh 1947-53, and Maharaja Gajsingh II 1953. It was the seat of the Government of Marwar; locally known as 'Nav Koti Marwar', until the merger of Jodhpur state into the United State of Greater Rajasthan.

After the merger, in the year 1949, the state was divided into five districts; namely Jodhpur, Pali, Barmer, Jalor and Nagaur. Some portions of its territory were also transferred to the districts of Jaisalmer, Sirohi and Ajmer. The former Jodhpur state, which became a district after the formation of Rajasthan, retained only four tehsils namely: Phalodi, Shergarh, Jodhpur and Bilara.