Lohagarh fort or the Iron fort was built in the early 18th century by the Jat ruler, Maharaja Suraj Mal. It is believed that it took nearly twenty years for the fort to be completed. The construction work of the fort started in the year 1730 when Maharaja Badan Singh, the father of Maharaja Surajmal was the ruler of Bharatpur. By the time the construction work of the fort got completed in the year 1750, Maharaja Surajmal had taken over the throne. It is said that since its inception, Iron Fort was never invaded. The Lohagarh fort is a living testimony to the chivalry and bravery of the Jat rulers of Bharatpur. Due to its impregnable defenses the fort came to be known by name of Lohagarh. The Lohagarh fort was surrounded and protected by deep moats. Though Lohagarh fort lacks the flamboyance of other forts of the region but its strength and magnificence is matchless. Some fascinating monuments in the fort are Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas, Moti Mahal and Kothi Khas. Suraj Mal built the Jawahar Burj and Fateh Burj inside the fort to commemorate his victories over the Mughals and the British. There is an Ashtadhatu (eight-metal) gateway, having paintings of huge elephants. Because of all these abovementioned qualities and features the Lohagarh fort was able to thwart many British attacks. The British laid siege to the Lohagarh fort four times but had to raise the siege on all occasions. The Lohagarh Fort in Bharatpur today houses an extensive museum. The tourists can go there to see articles like swords, daggers, guns, double barrel guns, long barrel guns, daggers, safety shields and revolvers apart from antiques like hunted cubs, bear kids, hunted tigers, deer, wood articles, jewelry boxes, hand fans, stone vessels, dresses and ornaments |
