Chhatris :Chanderi

Architectural Gems by the Water: Exploring the Historic Chattris near Parmeshwar Tal

Monuments on the Water's Edge

Panoramic View of Chatris: Raja Devi Singh Bundela's towering Chatri (left) and Raja Anirudh SIngel Bundela (right) viewed from across the Parameshwar Tal, with Chanderi Fort visible in the background.

Cenotaphs, or Chattris in the local vernacular, are powerful heritage monuments erected by Hindu rulers to commemorate deceased royalty. Unlike tombs, these structures are built at the spot where the cremation rituals were performed, typically near a water body like a river or pond, signifying a sacred site of passage.

Situated to the northwest of Chanderi town, the serene Parmeshwar Tal (Pond) hosts a remarkable cluster of three such Chattris, dedicated to prominent Bundela rulers. These memorials—honouring Raja Bharat Singh Bundela, Raja Devi Singh Bundela, and Raja Anirudh Singh—stand as testament to the architectural style and political history of the Bundela period. As one approaches from the Lakshmana Temple, the Chattris are spaced approximately 150 metres apart, creating a significant historical trail.

The Grandeur of Raja Bharat Singh Bundela's Chatri

The Cenotaph of Raja Bharat Singh Bundela is the first structure encountered and stands as the most impressive of the three. Built between 1642 and 1654 CE by Raja Devi Singh Bundela, it marks the cremation site of Maharaja Bharat Shah.

• Architectural Features: The structure is octagonal in plan with sturdy sandstone walls, culminating in the largest dome among all the Bundela cenotaphs. Though essentially a single-storey building inside, the external design—featuring cleverly placed eaves—creates the illusion of two storeys. Each alternate face of the upper elevation is further relieved by a projecting balcony.

• Significance: It is the highest of all Bundela cenotaphs and is a prime example of Bundela art and sculpture.

Left: Raja Bharat Singh Bundela Chatri: The colossal cenotaph structure reflected in the waters of Parmeshwar Tal, emphasising its impressive height and grandeur.

Right: Rear elevation of Raja Bharat Singh Bundela's Chatri (Cenotaph) in Chanderi: This close-up highlights the octagonal façade and detailed sandstone work, showcasing the projecting chhatris 

The Unique Design of Raja Devi Singh Bundela's Chatri

The Cenotaph of Raja Devi Singh Bundela was commissioned in 1663 CE by his elder son, Durg Singh Bundela. While similar in overall style to that of Maharaja Bharat Shah's, it is smaller in dimension.

• Architectural Illusion: With eaves placed at two distinct levels, the exterior gives the impression of a three-storey structure, yet the interior remains a single, continuous space.

• Mughal Influence: Intriguingly, three faces of its octagonal exterior are adorned with mosque-like arches carved with verses from the Holy Quran. This unique feature was possibly intended to allow his Muslim subjects to offer prayers for his soul, reflecting a remarkable period of religious tolerance and political sensitivity in the region.

• Entrance: This cenotaph features an entrance gate topped with a cupola-type shikara. The building appears to be two storeys high and is further defined by four minor cenotaphs at the corners.

The Freedom Fighter's Memorial: Maharaja Aniruddh Singh's Chhatri

The third monument is Maharaja Aniruddh Singh’s Chhatri, erected in 1774 CE. This memorial commemorates the Bundela King Anirudh Singh, who is historically famous for the bold move of declaring independence from Mughal suzerainty. His Chatri stands as a symbol of regional power and resistance during the later Mughal period.

Raja Anirudh Singh Bundela Chatri (Close-up): A striking multi-tiered cenotaph known for its octagonal plan and protruding balconies (chhatri style).

Preservation and Enhancement Visitor Access

While the Chattris hold immense historical and architectural value, the entire area currently suffers from low tourist footfall. All three cenotaphs require focused attention to improve the visitor experience.

• Conservation Needs: Essential restoration work is needed, particularly the removal of invasive weeds from the structures themselves.

• Accessibility: The approach to the cenotaphs must be improved, including cleaning the immediate surroundings. Tarmacking the approach road would significantly increase ease of access and, consequently, footfall.

• Visitor Information: Maintaining the surroundings neatly, implementing some basic landscaping, and installing proper inscription plaques for each cenotaph would enable visitors to easily access and understand the significance of these historical sites.

Echoes of Bundela Glory

The Chattris of Chanderi are more than just cremation markers; they are magnificent open-air museums that narrate the saga of the Bundela dynasty. From the towering height of Bharat Singh's memorial to the unique religious integration seen in Devi Singh's Chatri, these structures showcase an architectural fusion born of regional identity and political necessity. Preserved along the serene Parmeshwar Tal, these monuments invite visitors not only to appreciate the artistry of a bygone era but also to reflect on the legacies of the kings who shaped the history of Chanderi.

Restoration in Progress: Stone pillars and plinth being rebuilt on a Chatri foundation, demonstrating the ongoing preservation efforts at the Chanderi site.