Thursday, 2 May 2013

Forts of India

Amber Fort – Forts of India The famous forts of India have witnessed the history in its making.  They saw the rise and fall of many empires, flourishing of various ruling dynasties, the many accounts of romance and chivalry and even became the canvas for unique royal art forms. These power centers realized the architectural vision of their rulers who blended their royal aesthetics with the architectural mightiness to establish these wonderful jewels called forts in India. These visionaries had only one vision in their mind, which was only the protection of their kingdom and people. And these forts signified the glory of their kingdom. So, great planning of the medieval times in present era became the wonderful jewels of India dotting the entire landscape. Following are some of the majestic forts present in different parts of India. The Kings previously believed that building a fort on the hillock is a great defensive measure to protect their kingdom from attacks. Amber fort epitomizes the same vision. Built on a hillock with the high walls, this wide area fort provided the kingdom of Jaipur greater stability and security. Tourists come here to experience the mightiness of Rajputana kingdom that flourished under the rule of Raja Man Singh I. In fact, the unique Amber Fort is an iconic example of the Rajput and Mughal architectural blend prominently visible in Rajasthan Forts and Palaces. The fort has borrowed the concept of Aram Bagh, Sheesh Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam and Zenana or women’s complex from the Mughal architectural aesthetics. The other attraction of this hill fort is the enchanting Elephant Safari experience. The travellers can fulfill their desires of sitting on a royal elephant’s back as a part of an illustrious royal experience during the Amber Fort excursion. Sindhudurg Fort – Sindhudurg is a massive citadel spread over 48 acres on an Arabian Sea island in Maharashtra. Surrounded by the sea from the four sides, this unique fortress received fortifications with the use of over 4000 cast iron mounds by the iconic personality of the Marathas, Chhatrapati Shivaji in the 17th century. The high rising walls also contributed to the security of this fort. At the time when travelling by sea was banned by religious texts, this immaculate fort was and still is a testimony to human intelligence and engineering. Agra Fort – This flawless fort personifies the stronghold of Mughal majesty that flourished under the rule of Jalaluddin Akbar, the third and the most popular emperor of his times. Located on the western banks of River Yamuna, this fort served as the home to nearly five emperors of the dynasty. Later the fort received the sublime elegance from Emperor Shah Jahan, the fifth in the legacy of Mughals. Currently, this medieval fort is a recognized world heritage site for its sheer grandeur and mighty elegance. The attractions of this complex include the Mughal buildings like Diwan-i-Khaas, Diwan-i-Aam, Anguri Bagh, Mina Masjid and Sheesh Mahal. This fort can be explored during Agra city tour. Fort St. George – Forts St. George in Chennai, Tamil Nadu served as the first establishment of the British people under the East India Company. This iconic fort which was the structured originally for coastal spice trade harbour, later became the concentrated edifice for the rising power of the British. It was named as a dedication to St. George, the patron saint of England. The fort is structured with mighty 6 meters high walls that contributed to the security of the monument. The glory of Fort St. George can be revisited as a part of Chennai city tour. There are hundreds of other forts in India, each having different identity, character which reflect the vision of its constructing ruler. Through this blog, we will try to bring tourists closer to these mighty structures of power in incredible India. This attempt will make sure that they understand the vision, aesthetics and the immaculate artistry the Indian kings were known for.

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