Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Forts in Maharashtra, India

Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, founder of Maratha Empire in western india in 1664, was well known for his forts; he was in possession of around 370 at the time of his death. Many, like Panhala Fort and Raigad existed before him but others, like Sindhudurg and Pratapgad, were built by him from scratch. Also, the fort of Raigad was built as the place of throne, i.e., the capital, of Maratha Empire by Hirojee Indulkar on the orders of Shivaji. This is the place where Shivaji was crowned and today also his Samadhi stands in front of the Jagadishwar temple. These forts were central to his empire and their remains are among the foremost sources of information about his rule. The French missionary Father Fryer witnessed the fortifications of Geengi, Madras, built by Shivaji after its conquest, and appreciated his technical know-how and knowledge.

Notable features of Shivaji’s forts include:

  • Design changes with the topography and in harmony of the contour, no monotony of design
  • No ornate palaces or dance floors or gardens
  • No temple complexes
  • Not much difference in the area of higher or lower ranks
  • Marvelous acoustics in the capital
  • Sanskritization of fort names
  • Community participation in the defense of forts
  • Three tier administration of forts
  • System of inspection of forts by higher ups including the king
  • Distinct feature of forts like double line fortification of Pratapgad, citadel of Rajgad
  • Foresight in selection of sites

1.Murud Janjira

2.Torna Fort

3.Shivneri Fort

4.Purandar Fort

5.Shanivar Wada

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