Nestled in the rugged terrain of the Kolhapur district in Maharashtra, Vishalgad Fort—formerly known as Khelna or Khilna Fort—stands as a monumental symbol of resilience, bravery, and strategic prowess. Situated around 80 kilometers from Kolhapur city, this fort has seen the rise and fall of empires and witnessed countless battles, making it an essential chapter in the history of Maharashtra.
Origins and Early History
Vishalgad Fort’s story begins in 1058 AD, when Marsinha of the Shilahara dynasty built and named it “Khilgil Fort.” Over the centuries, the fort became a sought-after stronghold. The Yadavas of Devagiri seized it in 1209 AD, only to lose it a century later when Alauddin Khilji defeated the Yadava King Ramachandra and took control in 1309 AD. From there, it passed into the hands of the Bahamani Sultanate under Hasan Gangu in 1347 AD and later into the Vijayanagar Empire from 1354 to 1433 AD.
After Vijayanagar’s decline, the fort was taken over by a Maratha ruler, Shankarrao More, before being recaptured by the Bahamani Sultanate under General Mahmud Gawan. By the time the Bahamani Sultanate fragmented, Vishalgad had become part of the Adil Shahi territory, marking yet another turn in its storied history.
The Maratha Transformation
In 1659, Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, conquered the fort from the Adil Shahis and renamed it Vishalgad, meaning “grand fort” (with “Vishal” meaning huge, and “gad” meaning fort). This renaming marked a new chapter, as Vishalgad became a critical stronghold in the Maratha campaign against the Mughals and other adversaries.
One of the most famous events associated with Vishalgad occurred in 1660 AD during Shivaji Maharaj’s daring escape from Panhala Fort. Shivaji, pursued by the Adil Shahi forces, relied on Baji Prabhu Deshpande and 300 Marathas to defend the Ghod Khind pass (later named Pavan Khind in honor of the brave fighters). Three cannon shots signaled Shivaji’s successful arrival at Vishalgad, a feat that inspired generations and immortalized Baji Prabhu Deshpande’s sacrifice.
Vishalgad During British Rule
Under British rule, Vishalgad was administered by Deshastha Brahmins, feudatories of the Kolhapur State. In 1844, the fort became a focal point of resistance against British-appointed ruler Daji Krishna Pandit. During this rebellion, local Killedars (fort commanders) locked themselves within the fort in defiance, but the British eventually retook it and, fearing future uprisings, demolished parts of the fort to reduce its strategic advantage.
The Legacy of Vishalgad
Today, Vishalgad Fort stands as a symbol of the indomitable Maratha spirit and Maharashtra’s rich historical legacy. Its walls and ruins whisper tales of battles fought and sacrifices made, from the Maratha empire’s expansion under Shivaji Maharaj to the brave resistance during the British Raj. For history enthusiasts and travelers, a visit to Vishalgad Fort is a journey through centuries of valor, resilience, and pride.
Watch full video on YouTube!