When prominent filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali declared his upcoming project “Padmaavat” in 2016, the backlash was imminent. Starring big names of the industry like Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, and Ranveer Singh, the movie is based on the life of the popular queen of Chittor, Padmaavat, who is known for her valour and self-sacrifice on the occasion of her husband’s loss to the great ruler of the Khalji dynasty, Alauddin Khalji.
Since the dawn of the concept, certain Rajput communities attacked the director with allegations of having filmed a dream sequence between Rani Padmaavat and Alauddin Khalji. They claimed that the movie distorts history and the sanctified image of the queen, which led to many protests and ultimately banning the film from getting a release date. The trailer got a clean chit from people all around the world because no one could find any barbaric portrayal of the Queen or any other character in the movie.
After a long battle, the film finally has got a release date of January 25. But what is the upheaval that has divided the nation into two groups? One group thinks that a movie should have creative freedom and mustn’t be taken too seriously, and the other feels it is all about taking pride in their community. Threats were randomly given to the actors and the director, some even readily agreeing to pay handsome amounts for beheading Bhansali or burning Deepika alive.
Special screenings were made, and the audience had no issues with the movie whatsoever. Historians claimed that Padmaavat’s existence is still a mystery. Journalists shouted for letting their creativity to be held intact. But amidst all the hum and jostle, the movie showcases some brilliant locations as one can notice in the trailer released a few months back.
If you are a wee bit obsessed with history or want to feed your travel-loving soul by visiting the historical locations where the film has been shot will truly mesmerise you, further giving you a proper insight into the real story of the Queen who performed Jauhar and sacrificed herself rather than losing her honor.
The locations are several, as each of them had been shrouded in controversy. Here is taking a look at some of the real locations used for filming.
The Chittor Fort
Since it narrates the story of the Queen of Chittor, it is only but obvious to visit the place where everything originated. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Chittor Fort is one of the largest forts in India. A stunning architectural marvel of the Rajputs, the fort stands witness to the defeat of Rana Ratan Singh at the hands of Alauddin Khalji. Spread over a total area of 700 acres and overlooking the Chittorgarh town, the magnificent fort is a tribute to the glorious history of India. Open to visitors, the fort can be easily accessed from Jaipur and Delhi.
Jaipur
Coming to the next location where the film sets were originally located, Jaipur is the state capital of Rajasthan. A popular tourist destination, the “Pink City” is known for its pink buildings, the City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Jantar Mantar, Jaigarh Fort and Jal Mahal to name a few. The set was originally designed in the picturesque and grandeur Jaigarh Fort which was vandalized by the Karni Sena (one of the Rajput communities to have led the ruckus). Though shooting had been stalled after an attack on Bhansali while filming, the Jaigarh Fort is spectacular as ever and is a must visit for all who want to get lost in the pages of history.
Masai Plateau in Maharashtra
After the massive scene at Jaigarh Fort, Bhansali and crew moved to a new location, namely, Masai Plateau, situated 28 kilometers from Kolhapur in Maharashtra. A trekker’s haven, the hidden gem is as mesmerizing as a place can get. A perfect location to get away from the unrest surrounding the film, Masai Pathar is surrounded by breathtaking hills. There is a small temple dedicated to the Goddess Masai Devi, from which the small town has derived its name. With ample natural beauty to complement the historical setting, Masai Plateau is truly an amazing place to visit.
While the movie hits the theatre on 25th January, you can now visit the stunning locations that the movie was shot in to experience it like never before. Popular travel agents are offering lucrative deals on the “Padmaavat” locations. Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity! Get your booking today!
AUDIO VERSION:
Live History by Travelling To the Picturesque Locations of “Padmaavat”