Amid the soaring temple steeples, expansive palaces, and impressive forts of Orchha stand two tall, plain pillars. Sawan Bhadon Pillars in Orchha looks rather out of place but has its place in the city’s history. Located beside Dinman Hardaul Palace, facing the Phool Bagh, these columns are symbols of Bhadon and Sawan, the two rainy months of the Hindu calendar. Their title was bestowed on them by the local populace. The columns were erected to honour two important historical figures, Bir Singh Deo’s son, Bagh Raj, and a venerated saint of ancient Orchha Mahatma Anup Giri.
The Legend of Sawan Bhadon Pillars
According to folklore, Prince Bagh Raj got lost while hunting. As he battled through the dense forest, he noticed Mahatma Anup Giri meditating. When he inquired as to where the deer had gone, he was met with silence. Bagh Raj assumed he should proceed in the same direction. Bagh Raj quickly realised his error and returned angrily to where he had killed the saint. Legend has it, that Bir Singh Deo was a kind and fair ruler who put his son to death after discovering his felony. According to popular belief, the columns were built in remembrance of the two men who died in such tragic circumstances. It is important to note that other Orchha kings and rulers were incarcerated in majestic and ornate chhatris, whereas these guys received merely a plain pillar each.
Must Read: Orchha Fort
Sawan Bhandon – The Air Coolers of Orchha
A central row of fountains surrounds the Ram Raja Temple and culminates in an eight-pillared Pavilion. The Orchha Kings spent their cool summers in a subterranean structure below. The Tehkhana was kept cold by a cleverly designed Persian conditioning device. This unit was built nearby and consisted of two towers or Dastagiri (two contiguous wind-catching towers) known as Sawan Bhado (names of two spring months in the native Indian calendar). The towers were perforated on top to catch wind, while the lower section was connected to a water reservoir. The towers, water distribution system (aqueducts), and underground water reservoir were cleverly connected to a Chandan Katora, or fountain, in the pavilion above the retreat. The water from the underground reservoir was pushed up into the Chandan Katora and fell like a fountain onto the retreat’s roof, keeping the Tahkhana extremely chilly. They may be the only examples of the Persian cooling system in India.
Places To Visit Near Sawan Bhadon In Orchha
Sawan Bhadon plays a significant role in the city’s history. These Pillars facing Phool Bagh and next to Dinman Hardol Palace represent Sawan and Bhadon, the two rainy months in the Hindu calendar.
There are various historically significant places to visit near Sawan Bhadon in Orchha, Madhya Pradesh.
Laxmi Narayan Temple
This is one of the most important holy places and tourist attractions. The temple is one of the three most important temples in Orchha. The temple is a fine combination of fort and architecture. The most interesting thing about the fame of this temple is that it possesses an idol named Lord Laxmi. The temple was built by Vir Deo Singh in 1622. Some parts of the temple have turned into ruins, but still, it is especially magnificent. The temple is also famous because it has paintings on its walls, and some of the paintings depict the life of Lord Krishna.
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm.
Entry fees: NA
Suggested Read: Omkareshwar Mandir
Jahangir Mahal Orchha
One of the most popular historical monuments in Orchha, Jahangir Mahal is located at a distance of 18 km from Jhansi. Placed in the fort complex of Orchha, this palace was built in memory of Mughal ruler Jahangir by King Vir Singh Deo in the 17th century. The palace is known by several other names too including, Orchha Palace, Rani Mahal, Jahangir Citadel, Citadel of Jahangir, Mahal-e-Jahangir etc. Located on the banks of River Betwa, Jahangir Mahal is a three-storied structure that is a blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
Timings: 7 am – 10 pm.
Entry fees: INR 10 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners.
Dinman Hardual’s Palace Orchha
Orchha, a medieval city built on the banks of River Betwa in Madhya Pradesh is almost a ghost city now. But it still retains one of the finest displays of monuments, temples, palaces and cenotaphs, all of which speak of interesting stories, legacies and history. One such beautiful palace is the Dinman Hardauls Palace, rich in history of worship and martyrdom.
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm.
Entry fees: INR 10 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners.
Suggested Read: Harsiddhi Mata Temple In Ujjain
Raj Mahal Orchha
The Raj Mahal, Orchha, is among the most visited places in Orchha. Every year, thousands of visitors from various parts of the world pay a visit to this majestic palace. The construction of the Raj Mahal in Orchha, India, was initiated by Rudra Pratap Singh, the Rajput ruler of this region in the 16th century. The interiors of the Raj Mahal are lined with fragments of mirrors and animated paintings which are plastered all over the walls and ceilings. Some of these are still in remarkable condition and can be witnessed even today.
Timings: 7 am – 5:30 pm
Entry fees: NA
Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary
The town of Orchha is surrounded by thick and dense forests. The forest is the home of wild animals and one can spot them through jungle safari. This wildlife sanctuary is regarded as one of the best in Madhya Pradesh. This was established in 1994. The sanctuary is home to some dense plantations like Dhawa trees and Kardhai trees. Betwa River along with the Jamni River flows through the sanctuary.
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm.
Entry fees: NA
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Orchha
Sunder Mahal Orchha
The Sunder Mahal is a beautiful palace in Orchha, which is now a significant pilgrimage for Muslims. Though Orchha is now almost a ghost city, the imprints of its glorious and rich past are still retained in the ruins of the palaces and temples in Orchha. The Sunder Mahal is a simple yet beautiful palace built by Prince Dhurbhajan in Orchha. There is a passionate and strong story of love behind the history of the Sunder Mahal in Orchha. The Orchha ruler’s son fell in love with a Muslim girl and converted to Islam. He retired to the beautifully built Sunder Mahal after marriage. He was venerated as a saint, and thus, Sunder Mahal in Orchha, his residence, became a holy place for the followers.
Timings: 9 am – 5 pm.
Entry fees: NA
How To Reach Sawan Bhandon Pillars In Orchha
Sawan Bhandon is located in the Orchha town of Madhya Pradesh and can be reached by air, road, and train. However, the road and train are considered an ideal way to reach Orchha. You can reach Orchha from major cities of the country with all three modes. Let’s look at the different ways to reach the Sawan Bhandon of Orchha.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Gwalior, which is around 130 km far away from the Orchha. After landing there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach the Sawan Bhadon
By Road:
You can reach Sawan Bhadon by car, cab, or taxi from every corner of the town. It is located beside Dinman Hardaul Palace and is just 5km away from the Orchha Fort.
By Train:
Orchha has its railway station, but stopping at Jhansi Railway Station is better because it receives more major trains than Orchha Railway Station. At the station, trains are scheduled for major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Indore etc.
Further Read: Things To Do In Orchha
Now that you have a list of things to keep in mind for your next vacation to see the Magnificent Sawan Bhadon Pillars in Orchha , make sure you plan your trip to Madhya Pradesh to these fabulous spots for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on these opportunities, and book your tickets now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sawan Bhadon Pillars In Orchha
What are the Sawan Bhadon pillars?
The Sawan Bhadon pillars are a unique architectural feature found in the Orchha fort complex in Madhya Pradesh, India. These pillars are named after the Hindu months of Sawan (July-August) and Bhadon (August-September) and are known for their intricate designs and carvings.
Where are the Sawan Bhadon pillars located?
The Sawan Bhadon pillars are situated within the Raj Mahal palace, which is a part of the Orchha fort complex. The palace was built by King Madhukar Shah in the 16th century and serves as a prime example of Bundela architecture.
What is the significance of the Sawan Bhadon pillars?
The Sawan Bhadon pillars are believed to represent the changing seasons and the passage of time. The designs on the pillars depict various aspects of nature, such as flowers, fruits, and animals, which are associated with the months of Sawan and Bhadon.
What materials were used to construct the Sawan Bhadon pillars?
The Sawan Bhadon pillars are made of stone and feature intricate carvings and designs. The skill and craftsmanship required to create these pillars are a testament to the artistic abilities of the Bundela dynasty.
Can visitors see the Sawan Bhadon pillars?
Yes, visitors can view the Sawan Bhadon pillars by visiting the Raj Mahal Palace within the Orchha fort complex. The fort is open to the public, and guided tours are available to help visitors understand the historical and cultural significance of the pillars and other structures within the complex.
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