Gist of Yojana June 2024 Issue: Forts of India

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Role of Forts in Indian History

2. Defence architecture of forts of Andhra Pradesh & Telangana
3. Golconda Fort - The Impenetrable Fortress
4. Vellore Fort: The Great Garrison of South India
5. Medieval Ports and Forts

1. Role of Forts in Indian History

Introduction: The term ‘fort’ typically refers to a strong protective structure or place, often
enclosed by a wall, wooden palisade, or fence, and further protected by moats, ditches, or
multiple fortified walls.

• These structures were guarded by warriors and strategically located to enhance the
defensive features of a town, city, or kingdom capital. Over centuries, India has seen
the rise of numerous forts, from full-fledged complexes to minor defensive posts,
scattered across its landscape.

Early Fortifications:

Prehistoric and Proto-Historic Era:

• Fortifications date back to prehistoric times when natural and artificial means were used
for protection. The Harappan civilization (c. 3000-1500 BCE) provides the earliest
archaeological evidence of fortified cities like Dholavira and Harappa, with impressive
walls and citadels.

Historic Period:

• By the 4th century BCE, fortified cities such as Pataliputra, Kosambi, Ujjain, and
Takshashila emerged. These cities often had ramparts, gates, and bastions for
protection.

Fort Architecture and Evolution:

Material and Methods:

 • Early forts used earthen ramparts, rubble and earth, and later, stone and masonry. Hill
passes were fortified using local rocks, as seen in Rajgriha.

Design and Layout:

• Forts varied in design, influenced by regional styles and the ruling dynasties. They
included features like citadels, defensive walls, bastions, and moats. The introduction of
artillery in the 16th century led to thicker walls and extended bastions.

Types of Forts:

Kautilya's Classification:

• In the Arthashastra, Kautilya categorizes forts into six types based on their major modes
of defense:
o Jal-Durga (Water Fort)
o Dhanvana or Maru-Durga (Desert Fort)
o Giri-Durga (Hill Fort)
o Vana-Durga (Forest Fort)
o Mahi-Durga (Earthen Fort)
o Nri-Durga (Human Fort)
• Examples: Notable examples include the hill forts of Chittorgarh and Gwalior, the desert
fort of Jaisalmer, and the water fort of Murud-Janjira.

Forts through Dynasties:

• Rajput Forts: Examples include Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, and Jaisalmer,

characterized by their massive stone walls and strategic locations.
• Sultanate and Mughal Forts: Forts like Agra Fort and Delhi's Red Fort represent
Mughal architectural grandeur with their extensive use of red sandstone and intricate
designs.
• Maratha and Sikh Forts: Maratha forts like Raigad and Rajgad, and Sikh forts like Qila
Mubarak in Patiala, illustrate regional defensive strategies and architectural styles.
• Colonial Forts: European powers built forts such as Fort St. George in Chennai and
Fort William in Kolkata, incorporating European defensive techniques.

Significance

• Strategic Importance: Forts were crucial for the defense of kingdoms, protecting
against invasions and serving as military strongholds.
• Political and Administrative Centres: Many forts served as administrative hubs and
royal residences, symbolizing the power and authority of rulers.
 • Cultural and Architectural Heritage: Forts are a testament to India's rich cultural and
architectural heritage, reflecting the diverse influences and engineering prowess of
different periods.
• Economic and Trade Control: Strategically located forts controlled trade routes and
economic resources, enhancing the wealth and stability of kingdoms.

Conclusion

• Forts played a vital role in the history of India, serving as military bastions,
administrative centres, and symbols of power. Their architectural diversity and strategic
importance highlight the ingenuity and resilience of ancient Indian societies. Today,
these forts stand as monumental heritage sites, offering insights into India's rich
historical legacy and contributing to its cultural tourism.

2. Defence architecture of forts of Andhra Pradesh & Telangana

Introduction: The forts in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana stand as remnants of ancient
architectural marvels, reflecting the region's historical significance and defensive strategies.

Early History and Evolution

• Forts and fortified towns date back to the accounts of Megasthenes and Pliny, indicating
strategic importance in ancient times.
• Initially constructed with mud and brick, these forts evolved into formidable stone
structures during medieval periods.

Significance of Forts

• Centres of power and governance: These forts served as administrative centres,

protecting rulers and their subjects.
• Cultural and historical significance: They are repositories of architectural and cultural
heritage, providing insights into past societies.

Key Forts in Andhra Pradesh

• Kondapalli Fort: Located in the NTR district, it exemplifies Indo-Saracenic architecture

and witnessed rule under various dynasties including the Qutb Shahis.
• Kondaveedu and Addanki Forts: Initially Reddy kingdom strongholds, these forts saw
conflicts involving Gajapatis, Vijayanagara, and later, the Qutb Shahis.
 • Udayagiri Fort: Strategically situated in PSR Nellore district, it was pivotal during
Vijayanagara rule and later annexed by the Qutb Shahis.
• Gooty Fort: An extensive fortification in the Anantapuramu district with layered
defences, symbolizing the resistance against various invaders including the Marathas
and Mughals.
• Penugonda Fort: Once the capital of the IV dynasty of Vijayanagara kings, it faced
multiple attacks from Adil Shahi and Qutb Shahi forces.

Key Forts in Telangana

• Warangal Fort: Known for its Kakatiya legacy, it features concentric fortifications and
impressive stone architecture, showcasing advanced medieval fortification techniques.
• Bhongir Fort: A prominent hill fort, it served as a strategic stronghold during the
Kakatiya and later Qutb Shahi periods, known for its steep slopes and unique
architecture.
• Golconda Fort: Famous for its impregnable structure and diamond mines, it played a
crucial role under the Qutb Shahi dynasty and later came under the control of the
Nizams.

Image: Warangal Northern Fortification

Issues
 • Preservation challenges: Many forts face deterioration due to neglect and lack of
conservation efforts.
• Urban encroachment: Surrounding urbanization threatens the integrity of these
historical sites.

Solutions

• Conservation initiatives: Government and community-driven efforts to restore and

maintain these forts.
• Awareness and tourism: Promoting these sites as tourist attractions to generate interest
and funding for conservation.

Conclusion

• The forts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana not only symbolize architectural prowess
but also serve as cultural landmarks that connect the present with the rich historical
past. Efforts towards their preservation are essential to safeguarding their heritage for
future generations.

3. Golconda Fort - The Impenetrable Fortress

Introduction: Golconda Fort, derived from the Telugu word 'Golla Konda' meaning shepherd's
hill, is a historic fortress located in Hyderabad, Telangana. It has played a significant role in the
history of the Deccan region.

History

• Early History: Originally ruled by the Kakatiyas, Golconda was fortified and expanded
under the Bahmani Sultanate from 1363 AD onwards.
• Qutb Shahi Dynasty: Sultan Quli Qutb-ul-Mulk founded the Qutb Shahi dynasty in
1518 AD and established Golconda as the capital.
• Cultural Patronage: The Qutb Shahi rulers were patrons of Deccani and Telugu
literature, contributing significantly to the cultural landscape of the region.

Architecture

• Fortifications: Golconda Fort features a robust three-tiered fortification with a moat and
eight entrance gates, including Fateh Darwaza, Moti Darwaza, and others.
 • Structures: It includes mosques like Jama-e-Masjid and Taramati Mosque, palaces,
audience halls (Diwan-e-Aam, Diwan-e-Khas), and functional buildings like the Aslah
Khana (Armoury).

Significant Structures

• Jama-e-Masjid: Founded by Sultan Quli Qutb Shah I, this mosque is a notable

architectural piece inside the fort.
• Taramati Mosque: Known for its elegant design with three arches and minarets, it
reflects the artistic prowess of the Qutb Shahi period.
• Baradari (Darbar Hall): A double-story building serving as the General Assembly,
offering panoramic views from its high elevation.
• Aslah Khana (Armoury): A three-story structure once used to store weapons,
displaying intricate architectural details.

Image: Jama-e-Masjid
 Image: Gate of Bala Hisar

Image: Taramati Mosque

Water Management

• Durg Tank: A reservoir that supplied water to the fort and its gardens, showcasing
advanced hydraulic engineering for the time.
• Cisterns: Various cisterns distributed water throughout the fort, ensuring a steady
supply for domestic and military needs.

Issues

• Preservation Challenges: Golconda Fort faces challenges in preservation due to its

age and exposure to natural elements.
• Tourism Impact: Managing tourism while preserving historical integrity is a continuous
challenge.

Significance

• Cultural Heritage: Golconda Fort stands as a testament to the rich cultural and
architectural heritage of the Qutb Shahi dynasty.
• Tourist Attraction: It attracts tourists and historians alike, offering insights into
medieval Indian fortification and lifestyle.
Conclusion

• Golconda Fort remains a symbol of Hyderabad's historical legacy, blending military

architecture with cultural richness. Its enduring structures and historical significance
continue to inspire admiration and study.

4. Vellore Fort: The Great Garrison of South India

Introduction

• Vellore Fort, known as "the iron throne of South India," has been a seat of power for
various dynasties including the Pallavas, Cholas, Marathas, Bijapur Sultans, and Arcot
Nawabs. Located in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, it is a significant historical and architectural
landmark.

History

Early History and Construction:

• Built in 1556 AD by Chinna Bommi Nayak and Timma Nayak, under the Vijayanagar
Empire, it served as a stronghold and headquarters.
• Later, it became a pivotal centre during the Vijayanagar rule and saw strategic
importance during battles like the Battle of Toppur.

Under Various Dynasties:

• Aravidu Dynasty: Used as a military base during conflicts with the Bijapur Sultanate.
• Marathas: Captured in 1678 AD after a prolonged siege.
• Mughals: Captured in 1707 AD by Daud Khan after Aurangzeb's death, marking a shift
in control.
• British East India Company: Became a major garrison from 1799 until Indian
Independence in 1947.

Vellore Mutiny (1806):

• First significant mutiny by Indian soldiers against the British.

• Occurred due to discontent over new regulations and turbans imposed by General
Agnew.
• Led to a brief, violent uprising within the fort, though it was swiftly suppressed by the
British.

Architectural Significance
 • Medieval Architecture: A classic example of medieval architecture in South India,
primarily built of granite.

Structures Inside the Fort:

• Jalakanteswara Temple: Built by the Vijayanagar Empire, known for its intricate
sculptures.
• Mahals: Including Tipu Mahal, Begam Mahal, and Khandi Mahal, showcasing lavish
interiors.
• St John’s Church and Mosque: Reflecting the religious diversity and architectural
styles of different periods.
• Archaeological Museum: Houses a diverse collection spanning ancient to modern
artefacts.

Tourist Attractions

• Local Attractions: Sripuram Golden Temple, Muthu Mandapam, Amirithi Zoological

Park, and Armamalai Cave Paintings.
• Location and Accessibility: Centrally located in Vellore city, accessible via road, rail,
and air.

Conclusion

• Vellore Fort stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural heritage of South
India. From its origins under the Vijayanagar Empire to its role in colonial conflicts, the
fort has witnessed centuries of political upheaval and cultural evolution. Today, it serves
as a major tourist attraction and a reminder of India's historical resilience and
architectural prowess.

5. Medieval Ports and Forts

Introduction

• Maharashtra's coastal geography has played a significant role in its history, especially
during the medieval period. The Sahyadri mountain range gives rise to numerous rivers
that flow into the Arabian Sea, forming creeks along the coast. These geographical
features facilitated the construction of various forts, particularly at the mouths of these
creeks, to protect trade and commerce.

Coastal Forts
 • The coastal region of Maharashtra is characterized by bays with narrow inlets or creeks,
coastal plains, and headlands. Numerous forts were constructed at strategic points to
guard against invasions and to control trade routes. Examples include:
o Revdanda and Korlai Forts on Kundalika Creek
o Janjira Fort near Danda Rajapuri Creek
• Out of twenty-eight major creeks in Maharashtra, twenty-one have forts at their mouths
as well as further upstream.

Inland (Hinterland) Forts

• Forts situated more than two kilometres from the coast are known as inland or
hinterland forts. These forts played a crucial role in securing the hinterland and ensuring
the safe passage of goods to and from the ports. Notable inland forts include:
o Birwadi Fort
o Avchitgad Fort

Ports and Trade

• Maharashtra's ports were hubs of trade, interacting with various regions and countries.
Significant ports included:
o Sopara
o Sanjan
o Chaul
o Thana
o Kalyan
• These ports facilitated extensive trade with the West and were mentioned in historical
records and travel accounts from various periods.

Strategic Importance and Fort Construction

• The fortifications in Maharashtra were often strategically placed to protect trading

activities and maritime routes. Some key points include:
o Kundalika Creek: Chaul and Revdanda Forts
o Mandad Creek: Janjira Fort
• Excavations at these sites have revealed significant historical and archaeological data,
confirming their importance in maritime trade.

Decline of Ports
 • The rise of Mumbai as a major port led to the decline of smaller ports like Chaul and
Dabhol. Siltation of rivers also contributed to the reduced navigability of these ports,
further diminishing their significance.

Significance

• The forts and ports of medieval Maharashtra were instrumental in shaping the region's
trade and defense mechanisms.
• They facilitated the flow of goods and people, contributing to the economic and cultural
exchanges between India and other parts of the world. The strategic construction of
forts ensured the protection of these vital trade routes from foreign invasions and
internal conflicts.

Conclusion

• The medieval ports and forts of Maharashtra are a testament to the region's rich history
and strategic importance in maritime trade. These structures not only served military
purposes but also played a crucial role in the economic prosperity of the region.
Understanding their history and significance provides valuable insights into the historical
development of trade and defense mechanisms in coastal Maharashtra.