Rajgarh Fort
Rajgarh Fort, also known as Jat Fort, is a historic fortification situated in the Aravalli Hills near Rajgarh town, Alwar district, Rajasthan, India, at approximately 27°14'N 76°37'E, with an elevation of 479 meters.
It was constructed in the 1730s and 1740s by Maharaja Suraj Mal, the Jat ruler of Bharatpur, during campaigns against the Kachwaha dynasty.
The fort, now in ruins, is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.
History
Early foundation
According to a historical account of Rajgarh Fort, its construction began under Maharaja Suraj Mal following prolonged conflicts with the Kachwaha army. Some of tribal Jat chieftains from Alwar's outskirts, utilising their deep knowledge of the terrain and strong community backing, outmaneuvered the Kachwaha's, effectively undermining their regional authority. This victory enabled Suraj Mal to establish the fort as a defensive garrison, significantly improvising the Jat influence in Rajasthan.
Under Naruka rule (1771–1949)
After the expeditious declination of Jat rule, In 1771, the fort was takeover by the Naruka clan of Rajputs, led by Raja Pratap Singh Naruka, who subjugated the Alwar State with British support. The Narukas, through treaties facilitated by the British East India Company, consolidated power, making Rajgarh Fort the capital of Alwar until the capital shifted to Bala Quila. Under Naruka rule, the fort served as a summer residence for the Alwar royal family, reflecting their alignment with colonial interests.