Jhansi Fort
Jhansi Fort, or Jhansi ka Kila as it is called, is an imposing fort lying on a big hilltop named Bangira in Uttar Pradesh. It was a major fortification for the Chandela Kings from the 11th to the 17th century in Balwant Nagar. The Jhansi Fort lies in the center of Jhansi City.
The Fort is positioned on the hilltop and all major landmarks and tourist attractions are located nearby, making it easy for all visitors. At the entrance to the Jhansi Fort, one is greeted by the iconic Kadak Bijli cannon that was operated by Gulam Gaus Khan. There is also the Bhawani Shankar cannon which was handled by the legendary Moti Bai woman gunner as per local guides! Both soldiers laid down their lives for Her Majesty.
The Jhansi Fort compound was earlier vulnerable to wild overgrowth and bats. It is here that Rani Laxmi Bai shifted outside to the Rani Mahal upon the death of the Maharaja. This royal residence has now become a museum with a gorgeous collection of sculptures going back to AD 9. The restoration work on Jhansi Fort has taken a long time and tireless work from the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India).
The Maharani Jhansi Fort had an immense strategic importance in its early years. It was constructed by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo (1606-27) from Orchha, on the rocky hilltop named Bangra in Balwant Nagar town that is currently called Jhansi. There are 10 darwazas or gates for this Fort.
The Jhansi Fort’s granite walls are 16-20 ft thick and the city’s walls meet it on the southern side. The Fort’s southern face is near-perpendicular.
There are 10 gates in all, some of which have been named above.
