Nestled on the Kurte Island in the Arabian Sea, Sindhudurg Fort stands as a proud testament to the strategic brilliance of the Maratha Empire. Located just half a kilometer off the coast of Malvan in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district, this historic fort can only be accessed by a boat that ferries up to 20 people at a time. Its stunning coastal views and rich history make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
A Fort with a Purpose
Sindhudurg Fort was commissioned by the legendary Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in 1664. Recognizing the need for a strong naval presence to defend Maharashtra’s western coast from sea-based threats, especially amidst the rising influence of the Portuguese and the formidable Siddis of Janjira, Shivaji Maharaj identified the small island of Kurte as the perfect location for a naval fort. Construction began under the supervision of Hirojee Indulkar, taking three years to complete. Today, the fort spans approximately 48 acres, featuring impressive ramparts that stretch for 3 kilometers, with walls reaching heights of 30 feet and thicknesses of 12 feet.
The Entrance: A Tactical Marvel
Upon arriving at the fort, visitors are greeted by two imposing bastions that guard the entrance path to the main gate. The design of this entrance is cleverly curved, camouflaging it within the fort’s walls, making it difficult to identify from a distance. The narrow pathway leading to the gate, wide enough for only 4-5 people at a time, served a critical purpose in battle. This design allowed Maratha soldiers positioned on the bastions to defend their territory effectively, giving them enough time to fend off attackers before they could break through the entrance.
The main gate, known as Dilli Darwaza, features two giant wooden doors equipped with smaller inbuilt doors to control access. Above the gate, the Nagarkhana served as a place where drums were played to announce significant naval events. Guard rooms beyond the doors provided resting areas for soldiers on watch.
Sacred Spaces Within the Fort
As you explore the fort’s interior, you’ll encounter the Jarimari Temple, built by the fort’s inhabitants to ward off evil and diseases. Though Sindhudurg Fort has largely been abandoned, a few families still reside within its walls, maintaining a living connection to its storied past.
One of the fort’s most significant structures is the Shri Shivrajeshwar Mandir, dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This temple, built by Shivaji’s son Rajaram, is the only shrine honoring him, featuring a black stone idol that depicts the Maratha king without a moustache or beard. Notably, the temple also houses Shivaji Maharaj’s original sword, serving as a powerful symbol of his legacy.
The Mahadev Mandir holds secrets of its own, as it guards an underwater passage that begins from a hidden reservoir beneath its floor. This passage, extending over 3 kilometers, is said to lead to a nearby village, providing a means of escape should the fort ever be compromised.
Another temple worth noting is the Bhagavati Devi Temple, adding to the spiritual significance of the fort complex.
Water Wells and Communication
Sindhudurg Fort is home to three sweet water wells: Dudh Baav (Milk Well), Sakhar Baav (Sugar Well), and Dahi Baav (Curd Well). Despite being surrounded by the Arabian Sea, these wells provide fresh water that remains abundant even during the scorching summer months, showcasing the ingenuity of Maratha engineering.
The Nishan Burj, or flag pillar, is another notable feature within the fort. This elevated structure was used to hoist the Maratha flag, serving as a signal tower during wartime. Different colored flags were employed to convey various messages to the soldiers stationed within the fort.
A Lasting Legacy
Sindhudurg Fort is a monument to Shivaji Maharaj’s vision for a robust maritime defense system. It boasts around 52 bastions along its walls, strategically positioned to accommodate cannons aimed at enemy ships. Legend has it that Shivaji Maharaj, pleased with the fort’s completion, left his footprint and handprint on a slab near the entrance, a lasting reminder of his legacy.
A Journey Through History
A visit to Sindhudurg Fort is not merely an exploration of a historical site; it is a journey through time that unveils the stories of valor, strategy, and resilience that defined the Maratha Empire. The fort’s unique architecture, coupled with its breathtaking coastal views, makes it an unforgettable experience for anyone venturing into this beautiful corner of Maharashtra. Whether you’re captivated by history, architecture, or the allure of the sea, Sindhudurg Fort promises a rich and rewarding adventure.
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