Jaswant Singh Ki Chhatri

Jaswant Singh Ki Chhatri Agra is situated in Rajwara, Balkeshwar along the banks of river Yamuna in Agra. This is now maintained by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Jaswant ki Chhatri is a domed pillared pavilion shaped cenotaph, which reflects Rajasthani architecture. It was built during 1644-58 AD and is said to be the only monument to have been built by a Hindu king in Agra during the Mughal era. The monument is dedicated to Rani Hada, who was the princess of Bundi in Rajasthan. She married Amar Singh Rathore, who was killed on 25th July, 1644 at Agra Fort. His body was given to widow Hada Rani who committed sati at the spot. Raja Jaswant Singh, younger brother of Amar Singh Rathore built this commemorative Chhatri.

The Chhatri is a unique blend of Mughal & Hindu architecture. The surrounding wall is now in a dilapidated condition. However the monumental screen on the eastern side facing the river has survived. Originally this side had three entrances with staircases descending into the water, a series of arched openings with jalis and two octagonal towers crowned by chhatris. The inverted lotus crowned the main dome. The main tomb of the queen is set in the center of a garden on a raised platform. This is surrounded by a rectangular baradari, the structure with twelve pillars of red sandstone with beautiful jail work. The stone work is similar to that at Agra Fort & is popularly known as Agra Jali.

Architectural Importance
Chhatri Rani Hada is an arched pillared memorial which is quite common in Rajasthan architecture. It is believed to be the only memorial which was constructed by Hindu in Agra through the Mughal period. Chhatri Rani Hadais is an exclusive mixture of Mughal and Hindu architecture. The memorial is enclosed by a rectangular structure with twelve columns made by red sandstone which is also termed as Jali. The architectural work of Chhatri Rani Hada is quite comparable to Agra Fort.

Chhatri Rani Hada has three openings on every corner where the eastern corner faces the river Yamuna. Furthermore, there are two octagonal towers in the memorial which is capped by pavilions of the river side. Chhatri Rani Hada befalls in the centre of a garden on a high quadrilateral platform. People can enter in the memorial through the entrance of eastern corner. The other openings are closed by carved stone blocks. Attractive design with chain and bell lotus and flowered design can be found on the key supports of Chhatri Rani Hada.
In the central pavilion of Chhatri Rani Hada, there is a large stone based structure. Over years, the existing wall of the memorial was damaged. However, at present, the monument is maintained by the 'Archaeological Survey of India'. It has also gained national importance for historical monument.

Historical Importance
Chhatri Rani Hada was dedicated to queen Hada, the princess of Bundi of Rajasthan who married Amar Singh Rathore. Amar Singh Rathore was killed in the year 1644 in Agra Fort and after his demise, his dead body was given to the queen. In accordance with the local tradition, she committed 'Sati', in other words burnt herself alive on the funeral fire of her husband. Due to this reason, this memorial is also known as 'Sati ka Chabutra'. On that time, this act of sacrificing herself to fire with her husband was regarded as a divinest and cleanest form of love for any married lady. Hence, married lady used to deliver traditional wedding items such as bracelets and vermilion powder to the stone located in the central building of Chhatri Rani Hada for the late husband in order to obtain her blessing for cheerfulness and heavenly life. Afterwards, King Jaswant Singh, the creator of Chhatri Rani Hada was also passed away in the year 1678. Accordingly, his chhatri or memorial was created in Jodhpur which is known as Jaswant Thada.

Tourism Importance
Chhatri Rani Hada is a significant monument of ancient India. It highlights the mighty tradition of India and stand as a key monument honouring love by a wife. Quite an attractive place is Chhatri Rani Hada which is based on Hindu and Mughal architecture, which makes it quite attractive for travellers. Its design along with historical significance makes it an important place for tourism. So don't miss the opportunity to visit while here in Agra.