Raigad Fort | Information, Facts, Images

bySagar -दिसंबर 30, 2022

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Raigad is one of the districts in the Konkan Division of Maharashtra and the Arabian Sea coast forms the western boundary of the district. Most hilly places of the District are in the Sahyadri mountain range. Previously known as Kolaba, it was rechristened as Raigad District.

Raigad

Raigad is a historical and cultural district located in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is situated in the Konkan region along the west coast of the country and is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural significance. The district is named after its administrative headquarters, the city of Raigad, which served as the capital of the Maratha Empire during the 17th and 18th centuries.

The history of Raigad dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements in the region dating back to the Stone Age. The district has been ruled by various empires and dynasties over the centuries, including the Satavahanas, the Chalukyas, the Rashtrakutas, the Yadavas, and the Marathas. The Marathas, who rose to power in the early 17th century, played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of Raigad.

During the rule of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Maratha Empire extended its influence over the Konkan region, including Raigad. Shivaji Maharaj established his capital at Raigad in 1674 and made it the center of his empire. He also built the Raigad Fort, which served as the seat of power for the Maratha Empire. The fort, which is located on a hilltop in Raigad, is a popular tourist attraction and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Marathas continued to rule Raigad and the Konkan region until the British East India Company conquered the region in the early 19th century. Raigad remained a part of the Bombay Presidency during British rule and became a district in the state of Maharashtra after India gained independence in 1947.

Raigad is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The district is home to several temples, shrines, and other religious sites that attract tourists from all over the country. The most famous of these is the Raigad Fort, which is also known as the "Gibraltar of the East." The fort is a popular tourist destination and is known for its intricate architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to the Raigad Fort, the district is home to several other historical and cultural landmarks, including the Mahadarwaja Temple, the Mahalaxmi Temple, and the Murud-Janjira Fort. The district is also home to several natural attractions, including the Matheran Hill Station, the Karnala Bird Sanctuary, and the Tamhini Ghat, which is a popular destination for adventure sports and eco-tourism.

Raigad is also known for its culinary delights, with a variety of local dishes that are popular with tourists and locals alike. The district is famous for its seafood, including fish, crab, and prawns caught in the Arabian Sea. Raigad is also home to several local festivals and cultural events, including the Raigad Festival, the Dussehra Festival, and the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival.

The district is home to a diverse population, with people from different religions, castes, and cultures living harmoniously. The people of Raigad are known for their warm and welcoming nature, and the district is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.

Raigad is also an important economic hub in the state of Maharashtra. The district is home to several industries, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. The district is also home to several educational institutions, including colleges and universities, which contribute to the economic development of the

Raigad Fort

Raigad Fort is a majestic fort located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India. It stands tall at a height of 2700 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest forts in the state. The fort is situated in the Sahyadri mountain range and is surrounded by dense forests and valleys, making it a secluded and picturesque location.

The history of Raigad Fort dates back to the early 13th century when it was built by the Maratha ruler, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Shivaji Maharaj was a warrior and statesman who is remembered for his military prowess and his efforts to unite the Maratha clans under a single banner. He is also known for his administrative skills and his efforts to modernize the Maratha kingdom.

The construction of Raigad Fort began in 1656 and was completed in 1674. It is said that Shivaji Maharaj wanted a strong fort that would serve as the capital of his kingdom and as a symbol of his power and greatness. He wanted a fort that would stand the test of time and that would serve as a reminder of his legacy for generations to come.

The fort is spread over an area of about 70 acres and consists of a number of buildings and structures, including palaces, temples, and water reservoirs. The main entrance of the fort is through a gate called the Mahadarwaja, which is guarded by two towers. The gate leads to a large courtyard called the Dindi Darwaja, which is surrounded by a number of buildings and structures.

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One of the most famous structures on the fort is the Raigad Mahal, which served as the palace of Shivaji Maharaj. The palace is a two-story building that is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. It has a number of rooms, including a throne room, a hall, and a dining room. The palace also has a number of balconies and terraces, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Another important structure on the fort is the Jagdishwar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is located on the highest point of the fort and is surrounded by a number of smaller temples and shrines. The temple is a popular place of worship for the locals and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year.

The fort also has a number of water reservoirs and wells, which were built to ensure a constant supply of water to the residents of the fort. The most famous of these is the Pachai Vav, which is a large well that is said to have never run dry. The well is located near the palace and is surrounded by a number of gardens and trees.

In addition to these structures, the fort also has a number of secret passages and tunnels that were used by the Maratha warriors during times of war. These passages were used to transport soldiers and weapons and as escape routes in case of an enemy attack.

After the death of Shivaji Maharaj, the fort was used as the capital of the Maratha kingdom for a few years. However, it was eventually abandoned and fell into disrepair. It was rediscovered in the 19th century and was subsequently restored and renovated by the British government.

Today, Raigad Fort is a popular tourist destination and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is also a popular venue for cultural events and festivals and is often used as a backdrop for Bollywood films and television shows.

Despite its age and the ravages of time, Raigad Fort stands tall and proud, a testament to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji