MUMBAI MUSINGS: Jodhpur - Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur was once the residence of the ruling Rathore maharajas (kings). Dating from the mid-1400's, it contains several richly decorated palaces and courtyards. The fort overlooks the city and although attacked by invading armies, it has never been taken by force.

For years after India gained its independence in 1947, the royal princes around the country struggled within the new nation to maintain their status and roles, but were ultimately 'de-recognized' by Indira Ghandi in 1971. His Highness the Maharaja Gai Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur had assumed the throne in 1952 at just four years old after his father's death in a plane accident. The first Maharaja not to live and rule from the fort, he reorganized his inheritance to share and maintain his family's history.

The fort is now a museum and cultural center. He opened schools for the study of traditional music and painting techniques. He's opened schools for girls, foundations for desert development and famine relief, and foundations for nature conservation - among others. He is well-loved by the people of Jodhpur and I was quite impressed with his restoration efforts and royal museum.

North gate leading to the Brahmina

Tall doors for entry on horseback, carriage, camel, or elephant.

Spikes ten feet up to ward off elephant attackers.

The small door is called the 'eye of the needle' and it's what Jesus was referring to when explaining it's easier for a camel to get through the eye of the needle than a rich man into heaven.