Chopra Gate- Raisen Fort

Raisen district is located in Madhya Pradesh, which is 45 km from Bhopal. One can reach here by road and this road is very good.  Raisen is famous for its fort which is situated on a hill about 1500 feet high. It is also famous for its antiquity. This is a fort which not only has a magnificent history but it is also very beautiful and the ruins of multi-storey palaces and security walls etc. prove this.nnSince 1974 AD it's taken over by Archaeological Survey of India, and due to lack of funds its restoration is quite slow. Many mysterious facts are required to be explored which might be hidden under the mounds. Chopra Gate is one, which is very strong, magnificent and massive gate located in the Southern fortress wall.nnThe construction of this two-storied arched gateway is East facing according to the style and Hindu architectural beliefs, it's located near the royal residence of the fort and it was for the use of the King and royal family. It has many unique security features.nnThere are stairs to reach this gate from Royal residence. While from the ground an upward sloppy path. Before this entrance gate there is a very complex turn or sharp bend which is part of the strong security system of this fort.  The circular stone pillars on either side of the archway are examples of remarkable workmanship, which are becoming narrow towards the top, are made of gray, green and yellow seems to be polished stones.nnMagnificent huge stone circular pillars are divided into three parts from the base level by toothed ornate rings.  And the remaining bottom stone masonry is having projected stone brackets to support the circular overhangs. And the same pattern of overhangs at the end of third stage which is roof top supported by decorated stone brackets. And top is having an umbrella, which is having four stone pillars with decorated pillar capitals, beams and roof is covered with dome and stone overhangs on both huge pillars top.nnArchway is having lotus flowers carved either side and decorated niches. In between both the faces of this elegant historical Chopra gate either side chambers for guards are built. Rear side stair case is built in wall, for the security persons or guards is significant.nnWhile entering to the fort this is a major tourist attraction and for history buffs art and architecture lovers too.

Several gates were built to enter the Raisen Fort, of which the Chopra Gate is considered to be the most prominent, the Chopra Gate is a very large and strong gate which is quite wide of which the entire army could pass with its Lashkar.nnThis gate ho was built very strongly from the safety point of view, in which a whole troop of soldiers could stay, the path leading to the palace is with stairs and the sloping path is made for elephant horses.nnThis gate is a two storey which is quite attractive and grand, which is an unmatched specimen of Hindu architecture. Watching the sunrise from here is a very exciting experience.