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JODHPUR
was
founded by Rao Shri Jodha ji Rathore (a chief of Rajput clan) in 1459
AD. Jodhpur is known as the ancient capital of Marwar State and famous
for its magnificent Mehrangarh Fort (Jodhpur ka kila) the most majestic
and one of the largest forts in India. Jodhpur is also known for
gentleness of its people. The old city of Jodhpur is surrounded by a
thick stone wall. The wall has six huge gates called Nagauri gate,
Merati gate, Sojati gate, Jalori gate, Siwanchi gate and Chand pol. |
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In
1870 Sir Partap Singh (The regent of Jodhpur) laid the foundation of a
modern Jodhpur State, which Maharaja Shri Umaid Singh Ji (reigned 1918 –
47) built upon. Jodhpur (Marwar) was not merely the largest state in
Rajputana, but also one of the most progressive. Maharaja Shri Hanwant
Singh Ji signed the most progressive laws called Marwar Tenancy Act 1949
and Marwar Land Revenue Act 1949 just before merger with the newly
created State of Rajasthan. Unfortunately, Maharaja Shri Hanwant Singh
ji was killed in a tragic air accident in 1952. The four years old
prince Shri Gaj Singh ji ascended to the throne of Jodhpur and became
the 38th Maharaja of Marwar. |
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Mehran Garh Fort
Spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down from
a height of about 125 meters, the fort appears rugged and
impenetrable from the outside but houses some of the most
intricately adorned palaces with exquisitely carved panels and
latticed windows. Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower
Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat
Khana are some of the important areas to visit and view the
collection of palanquins, musical instruments, costumes and
furnitures. The cannons, placed strategically, on the ramparts are
well preserved and impressive. |
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Umaid Bhawan the
only palace to be built in the 20th century, it was meant to be
famine relief project which gave employment to citizens for 16
long years. An impressive sandstone structure, the palace is today
run as a hotel while a part of it is still retained by the
erstwhile royal family. |
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Jaswant Thada A
collection of royal cenotaphs, built in white marble, lies very
close to the fort. Built in 1899, the cenotaph also houses
portraits of the rulers of jodhpur. |
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