Chittorgarh, located in Rajasthan, India, is a city full of historical monuments and sites that showcase the magnificence of Indian architecture and culture. One of these structures is the Kirti Stambh, a seven-story tower that was built in the 12th century. In this article, we will explore the rich history, architecture, and significance of the Kirti Stambh.
History of Kirti Stambh
The Kirti Stambh, also known as the Tower of Fame, was built in the 12th century by a Jain merchant named Jijaji Rathod. Jijaji was a wealthy merchant who believed in the Jain philosophy and wanted to spread its message. He commissioned the construction of the tower to honor the first Jain Tirthankara, Adinath, and to promote Jainism.
The tower was built over a period of 10 years by a team of skilled craftsmen and artists. It is made of red sandstone and white marble, and it stands at a height of 22 meters (72 feet). The tower has seven floors and is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Architecture of Kirti Stambh
The Kirti Stambh is a fine example of Jain architecture. The tower has a square base and is crowned by a dome-shaped top. Each of the seven floors is decorated with beautifully carved sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras, deities, and other Jain figures. The sculptures are placed in niches that are carved into the tower’s walls.
The tower is also adorned with intricate carvings of lotus flowers, elephants, lions, and other animals. The tower’s exterior is covered in a lattice-like pattern that allows the sunlight to filter through, creating a beautiful play of light and shadow.
Significance of Kirti Stambh
The Kirti Stambh is an important symbol of Jainism and its message of peace, non-violence, and tolerance. It is also a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artists and craftsmen who built it. The tower is considered a jewel of Chittorgarh and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
Legends and Myths Associated with Kirti Stambh
The Kirti Stambh is steeped in legends and myths. One of the most popular stories is that the tower was built by a group of 500 Jain craftsmen who worked tirelessly day and night to complete the tower. It is said that they were so dedicated to their work that they did not even take breaks for food or sleep.
Another legend associated with the Kirti Stambh is that it has the power to ward off evil spirits and protect those who visit it. It is also believed that the tower has healing powers and can cure ailments.
How to Reach Kirti Stambh
Chittorgarh is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Udaipur, which is around 90 km away. The nearest railway station is Chittorgarh, which is connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur. The city is also well connected by road, with buses and taxis available from nearby cities.
Once you reach Chittorgarh, you can easily reach the Kirti Stambh by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. The tower is located within the Chittorgarh Fort complex, so you will need to purchase a ticket to enter the fort.
Timings and Entry Fees
The Kirti Stambh is open to visitors from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm every day. The entry fee for Indian citizens is Rs. 10, and for foreign nationals, it is Rs. 100. There is also a separate fee for photography and videography.
Best Time to Visit Kirti Stambh
The best time to visit Chittorgarh and the Kirti Stambh is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The monsoon season, from July to September, can be a good time to visit if you don’t mind the occasional rain shower.
Nearby Attractions
Chittorgarh has many other historical monuments and sites that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular attractions include:
- Chittorgarh Fort
- Rana Kumbha Palace
- Vijay Stambh
- Meera Temple
- Kalika Mata Temple
- Padmini Palace
Conclusion
The Kirti Stambh is a magnificent example of Jain architecture and an important symbol of Jainism. Its intricate carvings and sculptures make it a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Chittorgarh. With its rich history, legends, and myths, the tower continues to inspire and amaze visitors from all over the world.
FAQs
- Who built the Kirti Stambh?
Jijaji Rathod, a wealthy Jain merchant, commissioned the construction of the Kirti Stambh in the 12th century.
- How tall is the Kirti Stambh?
The Kirti Stambh stands at a height of 22 meters (72 feet).
- What is the entry fee for the Kirti Stambh?
The entry fee for Indian citizens is Rs. 10, and for foreign nationals, it is Rs. 100.
- What are the nearby attractions to Kirti Stambh?
Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha Palace, Vijay Stambh, Meera Temple, Kalika Mata Temple, and Padmini Palace are some of the popular nearby attractions.
- What is the best time to visit the Kirti Stambh?
The best time to visit the Kirti Stambh is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
