25 November - Sindhudurg Fort foundation was chosen as 25th November 1664

 

Sindhudurg Fort, a historical fort situated on the Malvan coast of the Arabian Sea in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, India, is a prominent symbol of Maratha naval prowess and architectural ingenuity. Here is a detailed history of Sindhudurg Fort:

Construction and Purpose

• Founder: Sindhudurg Fort was built by the great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
• Construction Period: The construction of the fort began in 1664 the foundation was chosen as 25th November 1664 and was completed in 1667.
• Strategic Purpose: The fort was constructed to serve as a naval base to protect the Maratha kingdom from foreign invasions, particularly by the Portuguese and the British, and to safeguard the coastline from pirates.

Architectural Features

• Location: The fort is located on a rocky island known as Kurte Island, approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Malvan coast.
• Engineering Marvel: The fort covers an area of 48 acres and is surrounded by a 3-kilometer long, 9-meter high, and 3-meter wide rampart wall. The construction utilized around 4000 mounds of iron to build the massive foundation.
• Hidden Entrance: One of the unique features of Sindhudurg Fort is its concealed main entrance, which was designed to confuse and deter attackers.
• Fortification: The fort has 42 bastions, each equipped with cannons. The walls are built with a mixture of lead and laterite stones, making them strong and durable against the sea's erosive effects.

Historical Significance

• Naval Power: Sindhudurg Fort played a crucial role in establishing and maintaining Maratha naval dominance in the Arabian Sea. It served as a strategic outpost for launching naval expeditions and safeguarding maritime trade routes.
• Legacy of Shivaji Maharaj: The fort stands as a testament to the vision and military acumen of Shivaji Maharaj. It reflects his efforts to strengthen the Maratha navy and protect his kingdom from foreign threats.
• Maratha Resistance: The fort remained an important military stronghold for the Marathas and played a role in their resistance against various foreign powers, including the British and the Portuguese.

Cultural and Religious Significance

• Temples and Shrines: Within the fort, there are several temples and shrines dedicated to Hindu deities, including a temple devoted to Shivaji Maharaj himself. This is one of the few places where Shivaji is worshipped as a deity.
• Handprints and Footprints: The fort also houses the handprints and footprints of Shivaji Maharaj, preserved in a mixture of lime and lead, which are revered by visitors.

Modern Era

• Tourist Attraction: Today, Sindhudurg Fort is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical significance, architectural beauty, and scenic location. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) conducts boat services to the fort from Malvan.
• Conservation Efforts: Efforts have been made to preserve and maintain the fort, given its historical and cultural importance.

Sindhudurg Fort remains a symbol of Maratha naval strength and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's enduring legacy. Its unique architecture and historical significance continue to draw historians, tourists, and admirers of Maratha heritage.