Jaigarh Fort, located on the Aravalli range in Rajasthan, India, has a rich history that spans centuries, from its construction to its strategic importance. Here's a detailed history of Jaigarh Fort:

1. Early History and Construction (16th Century)

Jaigarh Fort was built in 1726 by Maharaja Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, although some parts of the fort and its foundations date back earlier. The fort was primarily constructed as a defense mechanism to protect the Amber Fort and its rulers, as well as to guard the region's vast wealth, especially during times of conflict.

Maharaja Jai Singh II, a great ruler and a visionary, chose the location of Jaigarh Fort because of its strategic position on the Cheel Ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) in the Aravalli mountain range. The fort offered a commanding view of the surrounding areas, including the Amber Fort and Jaipur city, making it a key military stronghold. The fort was designed by the renowned architect Vidhyadhar Bhattacharya.

2. Strategic Importance

Jaigarh Fort was not just a royal residence or military garrison but also a place of great military importance. It was built with the intention to be impregnable, with strong defense systems and a supply of water and food that could last for months in case of siege. The fort also housed large artillery, including the famous Jaivana Cannon, which is one of the largest wheeled cannons in the world.

Throughout its history, Jaigarh Fort played a key role in defending the region from external invasions and maintaining the power of the Rajput rulers. Its primary function was to protect the royal treasury and military assets, especially during the Mughals' attempts to conquer Rajasthan.

3. Role During Mughal and Rajput Conflicts

During the Mughal rule, the Rajputs were often in conflict with the Mughal empire. Although Jaigarh Fort was originally built by the Rajputs, it played a significant role during this period, particularly in the wars with the Mughal Empire. Its location made it a critical site for both defense and retaliation.

However, during the 17th century, the Mughals did make some advances in the region. At one point, the fort came under the rule of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Later, after the decline of the Mughal Empire, Jaigarh Fort returned to the Rajputs under Jai Singh II, who expanded and fortified the fort further.

4. Rajasthan under Marathas

In the 18th century, the Marathas became a powerful force in India and their influence spread to Rajasthan. The Marathas briefly took control of Jaipur and, in doing so, also had a presence in the fort. However, the Rajput rulers regained control of the fort after the Maratha influence in the region began to wane.

Jaigarh Fort thus became a symbol of the resilience and military might of the Rajputs in the face of external threats from both the Mughals and the Marathas.

5. Decline of the Fort and British Era

By the 19th century, the importance of Jaigarh Fort began to decline. The British had started to consolidate their power in India, and Jaipur, as a princely state, came under British suzerainty. The fort was no longer required for military defense, and its strategic importance diminished.

The fort remained under the control of the Rajput rulers, but after India became independent in 1947, the fort was eventually abandoned as a military installation. It lost its former significance but remained a part of Jaipur’s royal heritage.

6. Restoration and Current Status

In the 20th century, the fort was largely neglected, though it still remained an architectural marvel. In the 1970s, efforts were made to restore the fort and turn it into a tourist attraction. The fort now stands as a popular historical site, drawing tourists for its breathtaking views, architectural brilliance, and cultural significance.

Today, Jaigarh Fort is managed by the government and is open to the public. Visitors can explore its many sections, including the grand palaces, gardens, temples, and the imposing cannon. The Jaivana Cannon, in particular, remains one of the major attractions and a testament to the fort's military past.

7. Architectural Features

Jaigarh Fort is a perfect example of Rajput military architecture. Some of its notable features include:

• Jaivana Cannon: The largest cannon on wheels in the world, capable of firing a projectile weighing up to 50 kg over a distance of several kilometers. It was crafted at the fort and is a symbol of its military importance.

• Fortifications: The fort's walls are 3 meters thick, and its high towers and bastions provide a vantage point for surveillance. It was designed with multiple layers of defense to withstand sieges.

• Water Supply: A large reservoir within the fort ensures that the fort could withstand sieges for extended periods. It is said that the fort had a well-planned underground system to supply water to its inhabitants.

• Palaces and Temples: The fort houses royal palaces with elaborate decorations, and temples dedicated to Hindu deities like the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

• Arsenal: The fort also housed an extensive arsenal of weapons and ammunition, which were crucial for the defense of the region.