A symbol of bravery and
courage that stood the tests of time and still firmly holds its ground. Built
by Chatrapati Shivaji, this fort is one of it's kind. It is situated 52
kilometers from Pune in western India. 'Lohagad' is at an elevation of 3450
feet. It divides the basins of 'Indrayani' and Pavna and is situated on a side
of range of the Sahyadris.
The four large gates of the
fort are still in a very good condition and reasonably intact.. On the west
side there is a long narrow wall like fortified spur called 'Vinchukata' It is
situated 52 km from Pune in western India. Lohagad is at an elevation of 3,450
feet (1,052 m). It divides the basins of the Indrayani and Pavna and is
situated on a side range of the Sahyadris.
The Visapur fort is located
on its eastern side. The four large gates of Lohagad are still in good
condition and reasonably intact. Historical records show that in the later
Peshwa period, Nana Phadnavis (1742-1800 AD) built several structures in the
fort such as a big tank and a step-well (bawali). On the west side, there is a
long and narrow wall-like fortified spur called Vinchukata (Marathi for
Scorpion's tail; see picture) because of its shape.
Lohagad has a long history
with several dynasties occupying it at different periods of time: Satavahanas,
Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas, Bahamanis, Nizamshahis, Mughals and Marathas.
Shivaji captured it in 1648 CE, but he was forced to surrender it to the
Mughals in 1665 CE by the Treaty of Purandar. Shivaji recaptured the fort in
1670 CE and used it for keeping his treasury. This fort was used to keep the
loot from Surat. Later in Peshwa time Nana Phadanwis used this fort for living
for sometime.
No comments:
Post a Comment