Rajput clans of Rajasthan were well known for their sense of architecture, as they were known for the daring and chivalrous acts in war and peace. Most of the North-western part of India was ruled by various clans and their heritage is reflected in the mammoth forts and palaces constructed by them. These forts are presently the legacies of the kings and Maharajas who ruled over different states of Rajasthan in the medieval era. In the kingdom of Ajmer, there was a small state of Kishangarh which was founded in 1609 by Kishan Singh of Jodhpur kingdom. By early 20th century, it had become a princely state under the British Rule. But the history of Kishangarh is well marked in Rajasthan, mostly because of the rule of Maharaja Madan Singh, who introduced various modern methods in agriculture and industries to make the state strong and fortified.

History of Kishangarh Fort

In 1649, after the Kishangarh state was established, Maharaja Roop Singh ascended the throne. This fort was initially known as Roopangarh Fort and was a city in itself named after the king. As the name suggested, it had become a city of unparalleled beauty under the rule of Maharaja Roop Singh and the fort showcased beautiful and refined architectural styles. High gates, walls and roofs marked most of the buildings. It is located about 27 kms from the city of Ajmer. Inside the Kishangarh Fort is another imposing structure known as the Phool Palace or Phool Mahal which showcases the splendour of Rajput Rathore kings. Presently, both the fort and the Phool Palace have been converted into boutique hotels, so as to enable the tourists from India and abroad to have a glimpse of the grandeur of the craftsmanship of the kings and artisans.

Structures and Architecture

It’s been more than 350 years that the Roopangarh Fort is standing tall and has seen a lot of ups and downs. But, the glory of the fort in form of its architectural design still persists. Primary feature of Kishangarh Fort is its fortification with nine turrets in the corners. Inside the fort, there are plenty of granaries, jails, armouries, foundries and various other important buildings. Durbar Hall is one of the largest structures inside the fort, which was used by the kings to carry out their day to day official discussions with their ministers. Latticed windows in the balconies still exist which showcase the finer work of the artisans of the past era. During the rule of the kings, the fort was used as a place for patronising arts and crafts, including music and instruments. Miniature style of paintings of Bani Thani style was seen to prosper under their patronage. These were started in 18th century and plenty of such paintings adorn the walls and minarets of Kishangarh Fort.

Phool Mahal is a structure inside the fort, which is a must see for the visitors. It is the Flower Palace, showcasing the living grandeur of the Rathore clan kings. Plenty of gorgeous frescos and murals adorn the walls of the palace. Phool Mahal is also converted into a heritage hotel which provides the best glimpse in the spring season, where flowers and greenery abound.

Kishangarh Fort and Phool Mahal are nowadays visited by tourists with some of them preferring to stay for a day or two to feel the essence of the living style of the maharajas, who ruled this land long back. Nearby the fort, there are a few lakes which are presently converted to well-known picnic spots. A bird sanctuary is also found near fort. Most of the rooms have been adorned with beautiful paintings, while the life size portraits are found in most places. To attract tourists, various folk dances and musical shows are organised on a regular basis. There are plenty of structures inside the fort which are also functional and used by people nowadays. Today, much of the functions and activities in day to day life of people of Kishangarh are related and intricately interweaved with the fort and different monuments inside. Still the charm of the olden days during the times of the Maharajas is evident from the large gardens and courtyards.