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/
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which dynasty built Vishalgad Fort? A) Chalukya dynasty B) Rashtrakuta dynasty C) Shilahara dynasty D) Yadava dynasty Answer: C) Shilahara dynasty |
SOURCE: HINDUSTAN TIMES
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