There is a very rich and inspiring history attached to
the imposing fort built by Rao Raja Laxman Singhji of Sikar, in the year 1805.
Before Lachhmangarh came into existence, this hilly region was known as ‘Ber’ a
small non-descriptive village.
Folklore has it that once while returning from Fatehpur,
Rao Raja Laxman Singhji was relaxing on the foothills of ‘Ber’ (where the fort
stands today) when he saw an awe-inspiring scene. A wolf came from somewhere
and attacked a newly born lamb. The wolf tried very hard to kill the lamb but
the mother sheep put up a tough front and fought the wolf bravely compelling
him to leave . On seeing this incident,
Rao Rajaji and his companions decided to build a fort at this site and
considered the foothill to be a ‘Veer Bhoomi’ (Land of the Brave).
The construction of the fort commenced in 1805 and
within a short span of two years, it was fully constructed. Since the
completion of construction in 1807 the Fort remained under the rule of one
state till India got freedom. The fort has also seen attackers from rulers of
Khetdi, Fatehpur and Mandawa in the year 1882. These attacks took place under
the leadership of Raja Bakhtawar Singh. At the time of the attack, his forces
were camped two kilometres away from the fort. It is a different matter that
the erstwhile rulers had thwarted the attacks with the help of Doongji
Jawaharji.
The signs of the fierce gun battle attack on the fort
can still be seen. It is said that the fort was equipped with three powerful
cannons called Kadak, Bijli and Bhawani. These cannons were used to defeat the
enemy forces. Till recent times, these canons were placed at the fort. Post
independence they were taken away. The fort attracts the attention due to its
grandeur. It is said that after the attacks of Fatehpur, Mandawa and Khetdi,
the fort was further built to secure it from any further attacks and to provide
security to the Paswan queens.
This fort never became the permanent residence of the
rulers. However, some caretakers of the state were always stationed here, to
look after the security and safety of the area. After independence, like other
Rajput states, Rao Raja Kalyan Singh, the then ruler of Sikar too decided to
merge with Indian union. Due to this reason, income from revenue stopped and
they (former rulers) were only receiving pension which was very inadequate
considering their lavish life style. Hence, they started selling their
properties.
As a result, the fort of Lachhmangarh was up set up for
sale in the year 1960 and it was sold to Mr. Ram Niwasji Jhunjhunwala’s family
by Kalyan Singhji. Now, the Jhunjhunwala family is maintaining the fort, one
can still see the stamp of feudal age on this fort.
Architecture
The Lachhmangarh fort attracts the attention of one and
all because of its design and architecture. It is built on a hill, which is 300
feet (approx) high and spread over a huge area. The fort is built on scattered
pieces of huge rock. According to eminent historian, Sumer Singh Shekhawat of
Sikar, the stones used in this fort are heavy, strong and slippery. There are
black and white spots on them. Such stones are found in only two places in
Rajasthan- one in Donngri of Syanan and Doongri of Gopalpura. Another key
aspect of these stones is that it can not be broken by a chisel or hammer. The
walls of the area inside the fort is made up of 23 minarets. This is an
architectural marvel, which you would not find anywhere else. Its length and
width are 4 feet and 20 feet respectively. These strong minarets have
discouraged many attackers in the past.The architects of the fort have used
this small place in a very effective and accomplished way. There are six
massive 25 feet deepwater tanks built inside the fort. They were constructed as
water reservoirs during war times. There are tunnels in the fort, which serves
as passage to move out safely during an attack.
The architects of the fort were Jats from Harsh. They
were responsible for making this solid and eye-catching fort. They were
assisted by the Chajera family of Khandela. This fort was very important in
terms of safety and security. The main gate had been built in such a manner
that it could endure any enemy attack. The gate which opens to the north-
eastern side is hidden by huge columns and could not be attacked easily. The main
gate was designed in a ‘Gomukh’ style which is almost unbreakable. Moreover,
iron nails have been used on the doors of the gates. It is said that these
doors were brought in from Khetdi. After climbing 23 stairs, the Main entrance
to the fort comes . It is called the ‘Singhdwaar’ (foremost gate), Another 47
stairs take you inside the fortress. The fort also has two exquisite
‘Jharokas’.
In a nutshell, the fort of Lachhmangarh was constructed
in a distinct way. One would not find a fort like this in this region. It is
situated in the lap of the Shekhawati region and has gained the praise of a
number of tourists. Naturally, the locals feel proud of their heritage.
The fort is also known for the scared temples located
inside it. While going inside the fort, one finds a side road, which leads to a
temple. A few steps forward one enters a small cave like enclosure and inside
lies the idol of Bhairavji. first glance it may deter a person from entering as
the cave has a very slender opening. Interestingly, both a very bulky person or
and very tall once can pass through it without any hassle. After little climb
from here, you reach the ramp which leads to the fort. At this point one can
see the walls and minarets of the fort as well as the view of the town. Once inside
the main entrance of the fort a few steps up and there is a temple of Balaji. A
huge idol of Hanumanji is placed here. Newlyweds of this region visit both the
temples located on the fort premises to pray for their happy married life.
