Rajgad Fort – A Majestic Legacy of the Maratha Empire
Rajgad fort is located in the heights of the Sahyadri mountain range in the state of Maharashtra. This place is a silent witness to the glorious history of the Maratha Empire.
The main characteristics of this great fort are its strategic location and awe-inspiring architecture. Once upon a time, as the capital of the Maratha Empire, this fort served as the center of the political activities of that era.
Today, this fort is in a ruined state, but it still shows the resilience and the st-
The meaning of Rajgad is the King of Forts. It is because the fort served as the capital of the Maratha Empire for three decades. Spread over an area of more than 40 square kilometers, the fort has four sections: Padmavati Machi, Suvela Machi, Sanjeevani Machi, and Balekilla.
Each section of the fort has structures like temples, bastions, caves, monuments, and water cisterns.
Trekkers and nature lovers also find Rajgad Fort a paradise. The difficulty level of Fort is moderate to difficult. Trekkers will find it thrilling because of the narrow ridges, steep slopes, and rocky terrains. Breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, forests, lakes, and other forts make it the best trek in the state of Maharashtra.
Rajgad Fort is a great place to visit. Even today, it brings glimpses of the famous Maratha Empire. Today thousands of people are interested in knowing the past. Trekking on the pathways of the is a memorable experience. What is the majestic legacy and History of rajgad fort?
The highest point of this magnificent fort is Balekilla. One can see the breathtaking view of surrounding valleys of great Sahyadri mountain range.Β Some very crucial incidents in the history took place in this fort.
Historical Background
This fort was originally called Murumbdev Fort.
It is difficult to know the exact history and details of the construction based on the remains. However, the earliest records say that it was built in the year 1490.
However, it got the ultimate glory in the year 1674 when the fort was renamed as Rajgad. It became the capital of the Maratha Empire under the leadership of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the legendary founder of the empire.
During the era of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the fort served as the headquarters before Raigad was made the capital in the year 1674.
This fort is a symbol of the political power and military strength of Maratha Empire for many years.
Since several important decisions were taken on this fort, it played a monumental role.
Why Was Rajgad Chosen as Shivaji Maharaj’s Capital?
Raigad Fort is located at a strategic location, and that was the reason behind declaring it the capital of the Maratha Kingdom.
The fort is located at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) above sea level. Because of this height, Raigad offers a commanding view of the surrounding terrain. Because of its location, hills ensured good defense.
Architectural Features
The base diameter of the Raigad fort is around 40 kilometers. Therefore, it is one of the largest forts in the region.Β The structure is quite imposing.
The walls and ramparts were very strong. Even their ruins also reflect the glory of its original design.
Rajgad Fort is divided into three parts :
- Padmavati
- Sanjivani
- Suvela Machi
The walls of the fort were incredibly strong and robust. There were strategically placed bastions to safeguard the fort against enemy attacks.
Today, the majority of the remains of the fort are ruined. However, you can still see the ruins of palaces, water cisterns, and caves. They display the excellence of the Maratha architecture.
The Role of Rajgad in Establishing Hindavi Swarajya
We know that the majestic fort of Raigad played a great role in the Marathe History because of its location. While establishing the Hindvi Swarajya, Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj planned military campaigns were planned from this fort.
Whether it was offensive defense or defensive, the fort always brought distinct advantages. It offered a great resistance against Mughal Forces.
Life of Rajaram Maharaj Born at Rajgad Fort
Chatrapati Rajaram Maharaj was the younger son of the great Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maharani Soyarabai. He was born on the 14th of February in 1670.
He became the Chatrapati after the brutal murder of Chatrapati Sambhaji by cruel Moghal Aurangzeb. The history of eleven years of Chatrapati Rajaram Maharaj is considered a constant endeavor against the Mughals. He had three wives. The first one was the daughter of the army chief Prataprao Gujar. The second wife was Tarabai, the daughter of Hambirrao Mohite.His third wife was Rajasbai of the Ghatge family of Kagal.
According to historians, Chatrapati Rajaram Maharaj died due to an unspecified illness in the year 1700 near Pune at Sinhgad, Maharashtra. After his demise, the power of the Maratha dynasty suffered a great loss.
The vacuum could not be filled until the release of his nephew Chatrapati Shahu Ji in the year 1707. For some time, the wife of Chatrapati Rajaram Maharaj, Tarabai held the empire and ruled it as a trustee for her young son Shivaji II.
Rajgad fort is one of the most significant forts in Maharashtra. It offers insights into the brilliant strategic skills of the great Maratha Empire. The most important aspect is that this fort is located in a strategic location. Therefore, it served as the capital of the kingdom.
When you reach the magnificent fort of Rajgad, you get mesmerized. Not only its beauty, but historical significance also impresses you.
One can easily imagine the royal glory and grace of the great Maratha king Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who walked these paths, took big decisions that changed the course of Indian history. The remains of Rajgad echo the legacy of the Great Marathas.
Today, hundreds of people go there to feel the history. Especially during the monsoons, the entire area transforms the Rajgad trek experience into a mesmerizing journey. You see lush greenery and misty trails everywhere. There are cascading waterfalls.
