History
Jodhpur, the bustling desert city, stands as the second-largest city in Rajasthan, only surpassed by Jaipur. It was established in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha, the influential leader of the Rathore clan. The formidable Meherangarh fortress, perched atop a rocky ridge, commands the landscape, with its eight grand gates leading in and out. The newer part of the city sprawls beyond the fortress walls.
The Rathores maintained amicable relations with the Mughals. Maharaja Jaswant Singh, in 1678, lent support to Shah Jahan during the latter's succession war. Tensions arose with the advent of Aurangzeb, who launched a campaign against the Hindus. He sought to bring Marwar under his dominion, prompting the demolition of temples and reinstating Jeziya tax. Following Aurangzeb's demise, Maharaja Ajit Singh successfully ousted the Mughal influence from Ajmer and annexed it to Marwar.
During the reign of Maharaja Umed Singh, Jodhpur witnessed a transformation into a modern city. The essence of Jodhpur's legacy lies in its valor and equestrian expertise. Polo has stood as the traditional sport of Jodhpur's nobility since ancient times.
Places
Fort museum
Among the museums in Rajasthan, this one stands out as one of the most exceptional, boasting a meticulously designed layout. Inside the fort museum's palanquin section, a captivating array of ancient royal palanquins awaits, among them the ornate domed gilt Mahadol palanquin, a prized acquisition from the Governor of Gujarat after a victorious battle in 1730. Displayed within the museum are the treasures of the Rathores, showcasing their weaponry, attire, paintings, and lavishly adorned rooms from the era.
Govt. Bangur museum
The inauguration of this museum took place on July 19, 1991, welcoming visitors to its halls. Among its notable exhibits is the revered Sukali Mata idol, originally from Auwa. Additionally, the museum houses a Vishnu idol, along with a captivating assortment of paintings from the renowned Jodhpur school of art. A valuable collection of coins and idols further enriches the museum's offerings. This cultural treasure trove is located in the city of Pali.
Jaswant thada
Descending from the fort, you'll encounter Jaswant Thada on your left—a splendid marble cenotaph dedicated to Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Maharaja Sardar Singh, his son, commissioned the construction of this architectural marvel, often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of Marwar," in honor of Maharaj Jaswant Singh II of Jodhpur. The central memorial is designed akin to a temple, featuring exquisitely carved marble. Accessing this edifice involves traversing through rugged hills, adding an air of seclusion and mystique to the experience.
Jhanki mahal
Jhanki Mahal, where the royal women once observed the formal ceremonies taking place in the courtyard, now showcases an opulent assortment of the royal cradles. These cradles are adorned with gilded mirrors and adorned with depictions of fairies, elephants, and birds.
Mehrangarh fort
Standing tall on a 150-meter high hill, this fort is the most imposing and splendid fortress in Rajasthan. Rao Jodha established it in 1459, and successive rulers of Jodhpur have made their own contributions to it over the years. A winding road leads up to the fort from the city located 5 kilometers below. Evidence of cannonball impacts from past battles with the armies of Jaipur can still be seen on the second gate. On the left is the chhatri of Kirat Singh Soda, a soldier who bravely fell while defending the fort against the armies of Amber. The fort boasts seven gates, including the Jayapol, meaning victory, constructed by Maharaja Man Singh to commemorate his triumphs over the armies of Jaipur and Bikaner.
Fatehpol, also signifying victory gate, was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh to celebrate the defeat of the Mughals. The palm imprints continue to draw devout attention, adorned with vermilion paste and delicate silver foil.
Phool mahal
Phool Mahal, the most opulent among Mehrangarh's historic chambers, likely served as a private and exclusive space for the entertainment of dancing girls. Its ceiling is adorned with intricate gold filigree. Maharaja Abhaya Singh (1724-1749) is credited with the creation of Phool Mahal, and the gold embellishments were acquired from Ahmedabad in Gujarat as spoils of war following his renowned victory over the insurgent Mughal governor, Sarbuland Khan. The paintings, regal portraits, and the perennially admired raga mala were added much later, during the reign of Jaswant Singh II.
Umaid bhawan palace
Commissioned by Maharaja Umaid Singh (1929 - 1942) and named in his honor, this magnificent palace is also referred to as Chittar Palace due to the usage of local chittar sandstone in its construction. It stands as a splendid testament to the Indo-colonial and art deco architectural styles of the 1930s. A distinguishing feature of this palace is the meticulous assembly of sandstone blocks using a unique interlocking system, entirely devoid of mortar. While a section of the palace has been transformed into a hotel, the remainder is open to visitors, presenting an outstanding museum exhibiting model airplanes, weaponry, antique timepieces, valuable china, and hunting trophies. Both segments retain an atmosphere of regal opulence.