AMBER FORT

 Historically, Rajasthan was never a unified state. The Rajputs frequently engaged in domestic conflicts. Covering approximately ten per cent of India’s landmass, the region was divided into numerous kingdoms, each governed by different ruling families.

Although they often quarrelled amongst themselves, the Rajputs would unite in the face of a common adversary, such as neighbouring sultanates. During the 16th and 17th centuries, matrimonial alliances between the Rajputs and the Mughals were actively encouraged. This was master minded by the King Raja Bharman who gave his daughter in marriage to Emperor Akbar This intermingling of cultures is evident in the architectural splendour of the Rajput forts, which beautifully incorporate elements of Mughal design.

The most distinguished among these is Amber Fort, an imposing structure perched atop a hill, commanding a view of the road leading to Delhi. It served as the seat of power for the Kachhwaha rulers from the 16th century until their relocation to the City Palace in Jaipur in 1727. The fort was constructed to symbolise Rajput might and was commissioned by Raja Man Singh I (1590–1615) and later expanded by Mirza Raja Jai Singh I (1621–1667). From its rocky heights, the fort overlooks the scenic Maota Lake.

Constructed in 1592 by Raja Man Singh I, the fort—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site—was also referred to as Amber Palace, the residence of the Rajput Maharajas and their families.

At the entrance stands a temple dedicated to Sheela Devi, a goddess whose idol was presented to Raja Man Singh following his victory over the Raja of Jessore, in present-day Bangladesh.

Amber Fort

Amber Fort exemplifies refined architectural design, combining native styles with influences from Mughal and Persian traditions. The fort’s extensive use of marble and intricate carvings bear testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of the era. Architectural similarities can also be observed in cities such as Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaipur.

A cobbled path ascends to the Suraj Pol (Sun Gate), the principal entrance, so named as it faces the rising sun. Traditionally, royalty would ascend to this gate atop colourfully adorned elephants. The gate opens into Jaleb Chowk, a large courtyard where elephants and horses were once tethered.

The fort was primarily constructed using three types of stone:

1.  Grey Karauli stone

2.  Red sandstone

3.  Marble

Layout

The fort’s design stands as a lasting tribute to the ingenuity and artistry of its builders, reflecting both Hindu and Muslim architectural elements and the cultural confluence of the region. The town of Amber, encompassing an area of approximately four square kilometers, lends the fort its name.

The town of Amber was founded by Raja Alan Singh, and named in honour of the Mother Goddess Amba. It had become a thriving settlement by 1037, and was later captured by the Rajputs, who ruled it for nearly 700 years. The serene and strategic citadel, as we know it today, was developed by Jai Singh I.

The Rajputs were renowned patrons of the arts and architecture. As fierce warriors, their forts were central to their existence—constructed as fortified citadels within towns, often situated upon elevated terrain, offering natural defence and encircled by broad channels.

Recognizing the strategic benefit of forming an alliance with the Mughal Empire, the Kachhwahas wisely pursued diplomatic relations. A key move was made by Raja Bharman, who gave his daughter in marriage to Emperor Akbar, thereby enhancing the stature of the Amber royal lineage. Both Raja Man Singh and Raja Jai Singh went on to distinguish themselves in the Mughal military.

Opposite the Suraj Pol and across Jaleb Chowk lies Chand Pol, another main gateway. In times past, kettledrums and other ceremonial instruments were played from the upper storey of this structure. A stone pathway leads from here to an ancient temple and remnants of the old township outside the fort walls.

Notable Features of the Fort are:

1.  Diwan-I-Am – The Hall of Public Audience, where the rulers met with subjects and heard their grievances.

2.  Sattais Kacheri – The administrative hall, where 27 officials oversaw governance.

3.  Ganesh Pol – A magnificent three-storey gateway, built in 1640 by Raja Jai Singh I to receive royal processions.

4.  Suhag Mandir – A small pavilion at the summit of Ganesh Pol, from which royal ladies could observe courtly events.

5.  Sheesh Mahal – The famed Mirror Palace, richly adorned with reflective glasswork. Sheesh meaning mirror and mahal meaning Palace. It was built during Raja Jai Singh time; it is also called as Jai Mandir. The king used to give private audience to royal guests and noble merchants. It is also known as Diwan – khas. It is surrounded by a veranda.

The inner rooms comprising of mirrors and velvet drapes formed the winter palace of Raja Jai Singh.

Sheesh Mahal

1.  Jas Mandir – Located above the Sheesh Mahal, it served as Raja Jai Singh’s summer retreat and is noted for its elegant décor.

2.  Sukh Niwas and Aram Bagh – Situated opposite the Sheesh Mahal, these rooms, crafted from marble and fragrant sandalwood, offered comfort and relaxation.

3.  Maota Lake and its Gardens – Below the fort lies the Maota Lake, surrounded by three beautifully landscaped gardens, once home to experimental saffron cultivation. Though saffron was imported from Kashmir for centuries, the king’s attempts to grow it locally by engineering a cooler climate proved unsuccessful.

The sheer scale of Amber Fort embellishes the hillside upon which it stands, forever celebrating the glory of its former rulers.

Raja Man Singh had twelve wives and thus commissioned twelve individual chambers for them, with twelve steps leading up from his own suite. In contrast, Raja Jai Singh, who had only one wife, constructed a single, grand chamber equal in size to all twelve combined.

Amber Fort remained the royal headquarters for over 130 years. The surrounding defensive wall stretches for approximately 12 kilometres. The walls were treated with a special plaster designed to absorb sunlight, thereby keeping interiors cool—a testament to the architectural foresight of the time.

The fort complex includes grand halls, pavilions, expansive courtyards, and lush gardens.

Today, Amber Fort is one of Rajasthan’s most visited heritage sites and continues to enchant all who wander through its storied halls and majestic gateways.