Vishalgad Fort

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Context

• Vishalgarh Fort has been in the news due to protests by right-wing organizations demanding the removal of encroachments and a ban on animal slaughter at the fort.

Vishalgad

• Vishalgad, also known as Vishalgarh, Khelna, or Khilna, was a jagir during the Maratha Empire and later part of the Deccan States Agency under the British Raj.
• It was governed by Deshastha Brahmins, feudatories of Kolhapur State.

Vishalgad Fort History

• Early History: Built in 1058 by the Shilahara dynasty, initially known as Khilgil Fort.
• Bahmani Rule: During this period, it belonged to the Shirke clan and was referred to as Khelna.
• Escape of Shivaji Maharaj: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj sought refuge here in 1660 after the siege of Panhala Fort.
• 1844 Rebellion: Vishalgad was pivotal in the rebellion against British-installed regent Daji Krishna Pandit, sparked by unpopular land tax reforms.

Cultural and Architectural Features

• Rulership: Passed through hands of Adilshah, King Shivaji, King Sambhaji, Mughal sardars, and eventually to the British.
• Dargah: Houses the revered Dargah of Hazrat Sayed Malik Rehan Meera Saheb, a significant pilgrimage site.

Current Condition and Conservation

• The fort currently lies in ruins, prompting recent restoration efforts to repair fortification walls and the entrance arch.

READ ABOUT SHIVAJI: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/shivaji

 READ ABOUT PANHALA FORT: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/world-heritage-day-celebration-at-panhala-fort

 SOURCE: HINDUSTAN TIMES