Kalika Mata Temple

BappaRawal built the Kallika Mata temple sometime during the 8th century for Surya, the Sun god. AlauddinKhilji destroyed it in the first sack of Chittor, but Rana Hammir rebuilt it as a Kali temple in 14^th century. The temple consists of five chambers, all devoid of their original roofs. The walls of this temple are plain but the cornices are decorated with lotus symbols. The inner sanctums walls depict the Sun god Surya in nichs surrounded by consorts and angels.

The moon god Chandra is also shown in sculptures in the walls which rise up into a flat ceiling supported by quadrangular pillars, also intricately carved and bracketed at the top. The doorframe of the inner sanctum has four ornamental bands with Surya forming the central theme of its carvings.The entire frame is flanked by an elaborate panel in which are carved figures of deities around a main figure of the sun god. The temple still retains the flavor of the Gupta style of architecture, and an inscription within the edifice informs us that it was built by king Manabhanga.

Chittorgarh Fort is considered to be the largest fort of India in terms of area. It is stated that the fort was constructed by theMauryans during the 7th century AD and hence derives its name after the Mauryan ruler, Chitrangada Mori, as inscribed on coins of the period. Historical records show Chittorgarh fort as the capital of Mewar for 834 years.It was established in 734 AD by BappaRawal, founder ruler in the hierarchy of the Sisodia rulers of Mewar. It is also said that the fort was gifted to BappaRawal as part of Solanki princess’s dowry in the 8th century.

The fort was looted and destroyed at the hands of Emperor Akbar in 1568 AD and subsequently never resettled but only refurbished in 1905 AD. Three important battles were fought for control of the fort; in 1303, Ala-ud-din Khilji besieged the fort; in 1535, Sultan of Gujarat Bahadur Shah besieged the fort; and in 1567, Mughal Emperor Akbar attacked the fort. Each time the men fought bravely rushing out of the fort walls charging the enemy but lost every time.

Thus, the fort represents the quintessence of tribute to the nationalism, courage, medieval chivalry and sacrifice exhibited by the Mewar rulers of Sisodia and their kinsmen and women and children, between the 7th and 16th centuries. The rulers, their soldiers, the women folk of royalty and the commoners considered death as a better option than dishonor in the face of surrender to the foreign invading armies.