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Hanuman Pol is one of the seven fortified gateways (known as ‘Pols’) that guard the massive perimeter wall of the Kumbhalgarh Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rajasthan, India. It serves as a crucial point of passage on the ascent towards the fort’s inner complexes.
Type and Design: The Hanuman Pol is typically described as a double-storeyed gate (two floors) and is flanked by large, defensive octagonal bastions (towers) on either side.
Structure: It features a massive, pointed arched gateway with decorative battlements and was constructed using stone and rubble masonry, following the Indo Persian style of building techniques (arcuate system).
Location: It is situated on the winding path leading up the hill, located after the Halla Pol and before the Ram Pol (the main entrance).
Historical and Religious Significance
Origin of the Name (Religious): The gate is named after a stone image of Lord Hanuman that is installed in front of it. This idol was reportedly brought and placed there by Maharana Kumbha himself, who commissioned the construction of the fort in the 15th century. This installation signifies the belief that Lord Hanuman serves as a divine protector for the fort and the kingdom of Mewar.
The Sacrifice Legend (Mythological): The location of Hanuman Pol is deeply linked to the popular legend surrounding the fort’s successful construction. According to the folklore, construction of the massive walls initially failed repeatedly. A spiritual hermit advised that a voluntary human sacrifice was necessary. When the hermit offered himself, he instructed the King to build a temple where his head fell and begin the wall where his body fell. A temple was constructed near the Hanuman Pol to commemorate this selfless sacrifice, and the stone image of Hanuman is often associated with the site of this foundational ritual.
Defensive Role: As one of the seven strategically placed gates, the Hanuman Pol was designed to slow down and channel any invading army. The steep, zig-zag path leading through the gates (including Hanuman Pol) ensured that enemy forces could not charge the fort directly, making the entire structure virtually impregnable.
In essence, Hanuman Pol is not just an entry point; it is a critical defensive structure and a powerful religious and legendary landmark within Kumbhalgarh Fort.