Jodhpur Foundation Day is celebrated on May 12 as Mehrangarh Fort Foundation was laid on this day many centuries back.
The foundation of the Mehrangarh Fort was laid by Rao Jodha, a Rathore ruler on May 12, 1459. While the Marwar royal family later shifted to much opulent palaces, the fort continued telling the tales of Rathore glory and basis of the clan’s strength.
Almost every ruler of Marwar left his mark here and hence the fort is a magnificent fusion of different styles and influences.
Mehrangarh Fort and its magnificence
Its 125 feet high towering battlements, are made of solid stone and are at places six metres thick. Palaces inside the fort whisper tales of intrigues, riches and even patricide.
The fort through its over 500-year-history was occupied only five times and even offered sanctuary to Mughal emperor Humayun, who was fleeing to Persia after his defeat at the hands of Sher Shah Suri.
Mehrangarh Fort Museum
The fort houses a museum which updates visitors about the golden age of the Rathores, showcasing collections of palanquins, furniture, cannons, paintings and folk musical instruments.
The Daulat Khana, a gallery of the museum, houses beautiful collections of Mughal miniature paintings.
Mehrangarh Fort is venue for RIFF and World Sufi Spirit Festival
The fort is also the venue for the Rajasthan International Folk Festival and World Sufi Spirit Festival. While RIFF is dedicated to promote and showcase folk music, Sufi festival promotes Sufi music.