Perched majestically on a rocky hill in the Ananthapur district of Andhra Pradesh, Gooty Fort—also known as Guthi Kota—is a testament to the architectural ingenuity and strategic brilliance of ancient India. With its roots tracing back to the era of the Chalukyas of Badami and a history intertwined with powerful empires like the Vijayanagara and the Mughals, Gooty Fort encapsulates centuries of fascinating stories.
A Fortress of Resilience
Constructed on a precipitous rock rising approximately 2000 feet above ground level, Gooty Fort was designed to be almost invincible. Spanning a perimeter of 6 kilometers, the fort’s architecture features seven concentric rampart walls, interconnected by gateways and flanked by bastions and watchtowers. These fortifications give the fort a spiral or conch-like shape, a design that rendered it impregnable to many invaders.
British historian Col. Wilks remarked on its strength, stating that Gooty Fort, with its 14 graded gateways, could only be captured through famine or treachery.
A Glimpse into Its Storied Past
Early Beginnings with the Chalukyas
Gooty’s history dates back to the 7th-8th century AD under the rule of the Western Chalukyas of Badami. An inscription at the fort mentions King Vallabha Yuva Raja installing an image of Bhattaraki (likely Goddess Durga). Later, the region came under the influence of the Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, and the Yadavas of Devgiri before transitioning to the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century.
The Vijayanagara Era
Gooty gained prominence under the Vijayanagara Empire as a strategic frontier. It served as the headquarters for Bukkaraya, one of the empire’s founders, who described it as the “nave of the wheel of sovereignty over the whole earth.” The fort rose to the status of a province during the reign of Krishnadevaraya, showcasing its importance within the empire.
Turmoil and Transition
Following the fall of Vijayanagara in 1565, Gooty Fort became a point of contention among the Qutub Shahis of Golconda, the Mughals, and later the Marathas. By the 18th century, it came under the control of Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan of Mysore before finally being ceded to the British after Tipu’s death in 1799.
Architectural Marvels
The fort’s intricate design reflects its diverse history. Key features include:
- 14 Gateways: Each gate is uniquely adorned with carvings and served as a checkpoint for enemies. The 2nd gate, for instance, has floral designs and a figure of Gajalakshmi carved into its lintel.
- Bastions and Watchtowers: Close to 100 bastions provide panoramic views and strategic advantage points.
- Water Tanks and Stables: Ingenious systems for water storage, such as the Kodiguddu Bavi, and stables for horses and elephants highlight the fort’s self-sustainability.
- Morari Rao’s Palace: This structure on the summit showcases Maratha influences and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Trekking Through History
Trekking up Gooty Fort is a journey through history. The climb starts from the main gateway and takes visitors through remnants of British barracks, a Christian cemetery, and the Hazrat Syed Vali Basha Qadri Dargah before reaching the higher levels of the fort. Highlights include the octagonal bastion, elephant stables, and the Grand Magazine with colorful interior paintings.
The Legacy of Gooty Fort
Today, Gooty Fort stands as a silent witness to centuries of political upheaval and cultural evolution. Its robust architecture and strategic design make it a marvel of medieval engineering. A visit to Gooty Fort is not just a trek through rugged terrain but also a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of rulers and warriors who once called it home.
Plan Your Visit
Located about 50 km from Ananthapur town, Gooty is accessible from major cities like Bangalore (260 km) and Hyderabad (310 km). Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a trekking aficionado, or simply someone looking for a weekend getaway, Gooty Fort promises an unforgettable experience.
Discover, Explore, and Relive the Glory of Gooty Fort!
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