Bhangarh Fort
Written By: LFG
Edited By: Grave Reviews Staff
Rajasthan is home to one of the most haunted places known in India as Bhangarh Fort. The majestic structure is located by the border of Sariska Reserve in Alwar District, near the Aravali hills, making it roughly 220 kilometers away from the bustling city of Delhi.
Despite its remote location, it manages to attract thousands of visitors annually, and it’s no surprise considering the mystery around the beautiful place.
Early History
In the seventeenth century, Bhangarh was built by a Kacchwaha ruler of Amber named Bhagwant Das, who dedicated the structure to his son, Madho Singh I. Madho was a renowned warrior who fought bravely in many battles. His son, Chatr Singh, took over the kingdom upon his demise; however, the entire kingdom was put in a difficult time when famine hit in 1783 after the death of Chatr. Since then, the town struggled to retain its former glory, and people started to leave. This predicament ultimately led to the place’s downfall, and Bhangarh never recovered.
The Legends and Curses Surrounding Bhangarh
Over the years, various stories have circulated about the myths of Bhangarh. One legend talked about how King Madho Singh sought permission from a hermit named Balu Nath as he lived in a cave near the fort, and the king wanted to expand his territory. As an agreement, the sadhu or hermit made Madho promise that the fort’s shadow should not cast in his cave nor disturb his meditation.
Unfortunately, Madho was unable to keep this promise—the shadows grew when the sun went south during winter. Balu was furious when he woke from his meditation, which is why he placed a curse on the town and its residents, saying no one can ever put up a new room within the area. According to townsfolk, the curse holds until today—newly built houses collapse if it’s within the neighborhood.
Another story tells of Princess Ratnavati, the daughter of former King Chatr Singh. She was known throughout the land for her exceptional beauty, and suitors came far to ask her hand in marriage. One of those suitors was a lonesome tantric who enjoyed the dark arts by the name of Singhia. He was deeply in love with the princess, but he knew Ratnavati would never notice a man like him. Out of desperation, Singhia resulted in casting various spells in hopes of capturing her heart.
One time, he had another shot at casting another love spell through a perfume bottle meant for the princess. This time, she found out, and out of anger, she threw the bottle out and hit the hermit’s head, which led to his death. Apparently, he was able to curse King Chatr Singh’s entire family and kingdom before dying. The next year, Princess Ratnavati was murdered along with other people when Bhangarh was attacked by invading Mughals.
Bhangarh Fort Today
The villagers firmly believe that these curses are the main reason no one dares to live within the area anymore. It is now secluded, and one would have to hire a local tour guide or private vehicle to get there. Unlike most tourist spots, Bhangarh follows a strict visitation schedule—no vehicle is allowed within the vicinity and no one is allowed inside from sunset to sunrise. The rumors of supernatural occurrences were further believed due to the rules imposed. Even today, there are visitors who claim to hear ghosts screaming, bangles clanging on the floor, and women crying in the dark. Some also report seeing eerie shadows and strange lights; however, local guards have denied such paranormal activity from happening.
The fort still stands to be one of India’s most beautiful structures. Even in ruins, one can’t help but admire how the once-regal kingdom played such an important part in history. Bhangarh will never be forgotten thanks to tourism and the exciting ghost stories that come with it.
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