Why in the News?

• The Rajasthan government informed the Supreme Court it is actively considering a total ban on mining activities within 10 km of Chittorgarh Fort.

Key Points:

About the fort:

⇒ It is located in Chittorgarh of Rajasthan and is one of the largest forts in India.

⇒ This fort is situated on a hill about 180 meters above sea level.

⇒ This fort was built in the 7th century AD by  Chitrangada Mori, the ruler of the local Maurya dynasty.

⇒ Later, in the year 728 AD, the rulers of Mewar took over and made it their capital.

⇒ Chittorgarh has been the center of power and pride of Mewar in medieval India.

⇒ According to Malik Muhammad Jayasi 's famous poem 'Padmavat' , Alauddin Khilji attacked this fort with the aim of acquiring Queen Padmini of King Ratan Singh of Mewar .

⇒ This fort has also been associated with the heroic tales of many famous warriors like Badal, Gora, Maharana Pratap, Rana Kumbha, Patta, Jaimal.

⇒ The fort was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.

⇒ It is one of the seven hill forts that have been given the collective heritage status as 'Hill Forts of Rajasthan' .

⇒ The major features of the fort include its seven gates – Padan Gate, Ganesh Gate, Hanuman Gate, Bhairon Gate, Jodla Gate, Laxman Gate and the main gate 'Ram Pol'.

⇒ The fort complex houses four major palaces , 19 temples (both Hindu and Jain), 20 water sources and four major monuments .