84 Pillered Cenotaph — Attraction in Rajasthan

The 84 Pillared Cenotaph was built in the 17th century by Rao Anirudh Singh, a ruler of Bundi, in memory of his foster brother, Dewan Shri Ajit Singhji. It is a cenotaph, which is a structure built in memory of a deceased person or group of people, and is often used for performing last rites or memorial ceremonies.

The cenotaph is named after its distinctive feature of having 84 intricately carved pillars, which support the roof of the structure. The pillars are made of sandstone and are adorned with intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, warriors, musicians, and other mythological figures. The carvings are a fine example of Rajputana architecture, known for its intricate detailing and exquisite craftsmanship.

The 84 Pillared Cenotaph is a two-story structure with a domed roof, supported by the 84 pillars arranged in a grid pattern. The cenotaph also has a central dome with a spire, which adds to its architectural grandeur. The walls of the cenotaph are adorned with frescoes, depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and Rajput history, which are now partially faded but still provide glimpses of the original artwork.

The cenotaph is set in a picturesque garden, with lush greenery and a serene ambiance, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It is also a site for cultural events and festivals, and attracts visitors interested in history, architecture, and Rajputana culture.

The 84 Pillared Cenotaph is an important historical monument in Bundi, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and architectural prowess of the region. It is a testimony to the patronage of the rulers of Bundi towards art and architecture during the medieval period. The cenotaph stands as a reminder of the historical significance of Bundi and its contribution to Rajasthan's cultural heritage, attracting visitors from all...

An architectural marvel which was built by Rao Raja Anirudh Singh. Indeed it is a Lord Shiva Temple. Travel is always enjoyable if done in a planned manner.  Similarly, tourism is also beneficial if done in a planned manner. Today the tourism industry is spreading rapidly all over the world and facilities are also increasing. We were enjoying this pleasure very much in Bundi tourism.

This unique chhatri or cenotaph is built on eighty-four pillars was the center of our attraction. This chhatri was built by Rao Raja Anirudh Singh in 1683 in memory of his brother. This Cenotaph is made of brown colored stones.  It is having two floors. And its entire roof, on which the beautiful dome and small umbrellas are made at the corners, is built on eighty-four pillars which are supporting the roof.

The entire Cenotaph is built on a high platform. The walls of this platform are covered with plaques on which the beautifully carved figures of Shivparvati, Radhakrishna, Samudra Manthan, origin of Brahma, Gajlaxmi etc. based on Hindu mythology, besides elephant horses, make this Cenotaph special. Within the ceiling beams and columns are engraved with beautiful and attractive figures like Apsaras, fighting elephants, musicians, decorated heroines with veena and flute.  Elephants and deer figures in the arches are extremely attractive.  The larger Shivling is also situated in the middle of the Cenotaph. In fact, this Cenotaph is a precious heritage. The architecture of Mughal and Rajput style is...

84-Pillared Cenotaph is an umbrella situated at Devapura to the south of Bundi town in Rajasthan. Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri, as it is also known, was constructed in the year 1683 by the Maharaja of Bundi, Rao Raja Anirudh in memory of his nurse, Deva, under whose love and guidance the prince grew up. He was very fond of Deva, thus he constructed 84-Pillared Cenotaph in her honor. It is also widely known as "Music Maharani's Chhatri. It is said, that one cannot count all the 84 beams at a time.

The umbrella is a double storied structure that is beautifully decorated with artistic figures depicting the art that was prevalent back then. At the upper level, the core chattri is supported with 16 pillars. This umbrella consists of 4 chattri placed on the 4 corners of the structure. At the lower level of 84-Pillared Cenotaph, a large Shiv Linga is placed which is protected by a marvelously adorned roof top that stands strong with the support of 84 pillars. These pillars together are called “chaurasi khamba”. Thus, the name 84-Pillared Cenotaph has been given to the structure.

Over the period, a section of Chaurasi Khambon ki Chhatri has been damaged. But this in no way dampens the spirit of the tourists who visit this sight in large number to be a part of its history. 84 Pillar Cenotaph is a very important tourism sight in Bundi.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

During the winter season for obvious reason to avoid the scorching heat of Rajasthan. The place remains open for tourists from 9:00...