Rajput Architecture

From Kshatriya Wiki

Rajput Architecture is a style of architecture associated with the Rajput kingdoms of India. Found primarily in regions such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and parts of northern and central India, this architectural tradition includes a wide range of structures such as forts, palaces, temples, stepwells, and cenotaphs.

Rajput architecture is known for its emphasis on defense and grandeur, often reflected in massive hill forts, fortified walls, and elevated locations. At the same time, it features detailed carvings, chhatris (domed pavilions), jharokhas (balconies), and intricate stone work that highlight artistic and religious elements. The style developed independently in different Rajput states, leading to regional variations while retaining common cultural themes.

Rajput were among the most prolific patrons of architecture in Indian history, contributing significantly to the subcontinent's built heritage. A large portion of India's historic forts, temples and palatial complexes were constructed under Rajput dynasties. Several Rajput architectural sites, including Chittorgarh Fort, Khajuraho Group of Temples, and others, have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their historical and architectural value and popular tourist attractions.. These structures not only reflect regional variations and dynastic identities but also represent one of the most enduring legacies of Indian architecture.

Major Sites and Monuments

MONUMENT NAME TYPE LOCATION ARCHITECTURE STYLE BUILT BY YEAR
Kumbhalgarh Fort Fort Kumbhalgarh Mewar Architecture Rana Kumbha 15th Century
Sun Temple Modhera Temple Modhera Maru-Gurjara Arch. Bhimadev Solanki I 11th Century
Happy Villa Palace Palace Gandhinagar Rajput Architecture Gambhirsinhji Sahib 19th Century
Jahangir Mahal Palace Orccha Timurid-Rajput Arch. Vir Singh Bundela 17th Century
Chaturbhuj Temple Temple Orccha Maru-Gurjara Arch Vir Singh Bundela 17th Century
Lakshmi Narayan Temple Temple Orccha Timurid-Rajput Arch. Vir Singh Bundela 17th Century
Orccha Fort Fort Orccha Rajput Architecture Rudra Singh Bundela 15th Century
The Raja Mahal, Fort Orccha Palace Orccha Rajput Architecture Madhukar Shah 16th Century
The Sheesh Mahal, Fort Orccha Palace Orccha Rajput Architecture Udait Singh 16th Century
The Rai Praveen Mahal Palace Orccha Timurid Architecture Indrajit Singh Bundela 16th Century
Phool Bagh, Fort Orccha Garden Orccha Rajput Architecture Rudra Singh Bundela 15th Century
The Govindgarh Palace Palace Govindgarh Rajput Architecture Raghuraj Singh Judeo 19th Century
The Rewah Fort Fort Rewah Rajput Architecture Vikramaditya Singh Judeo 16th Century
Venkat Bhavan Palace Rewah Rajput Architecture Venkatraman Singh Judeo 20th Century
Bandhavgarh Fort Fort Umaria Rajput Architecture Kalchuri Kings 10th Century
Baderi Fort Fort Umaria Rajput Architecture Lal Ranmat Singh Baghel 19th Century
Bardi Palace Palace Singrauli Rajput Architecture Brahmjit Singh Chandel 12th Century
Sohawal Fort Fort Sohawal Rajput Architecture Rais Fateh Singh Baghel 16th Century
Kothi Fort Fort Kothi Rajput Architecture Rais Duniyapati Singh Baghel 19th Century
Teli Ka Mandir Temple Gwalior Rajput Architecture Mihir Bhoj Pratihar 9th Century
Gwalior Fort Fort Gwalior Rajput Architecture Suraj Pal Kachwaha 7th Century
Gurjari Mahal Palace Gwalior Rajput Architecture Man Singh Tomar 15th Century
Man Mandir Palace Palace Gwalior Rajput Architecture Man Singh Tomar 15th Century
Sailana Palace Palace Ratlam Rajput Architecture Jai Singh Rathore 18th Century
Singorgarh Fort Fort Damoh Rajput Architecture (Not Provided) (Not Provided)
Jhansi Fort Fort Jhansi Rajput Architecture Vir Singh Bundela 17th Century
Jharia Palace Palace Jharia Rajput Architecture Raghunath Singh Baghel 16th Century
Khandpara Palace Palace Khandpara, Orissa Rajput Architecture Raghunath Singh Baghel 17th Century