Gist of Yojana June 2024 Issue: Forts of India

Yojana Magazine is an important source of material for the UPSC exam. The monthly magazine provides details of major government schemes and programmes in various domains. Moreover, coming from the government, it is an authentic source of information for the UPSC Exam. Here, we provide the Gist of Yojana, exclusively for the IAS Exam.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Role of Forts in Indian History
2. Defence architecture of forts of Andhra Pradesh & Telangana
3. Golconda Fort - The Impenetrable Fortress
4. Vellore Fort: The Great Garrison of South India
5. Medieval Ports and Forts

1. Role of Forts in Indian History

Introduction: The term ‘fort’ typically refers to a strong protective structure or place, often enclosed by a wall, wooden palisade, or fence, and further protected by moats, ditches, or multiple fortified walls. 

• These structures were guarded by warriors and strategically located to enhance the defensive features of a town, city, or kingdom capital. Over centuries, India has seen the rise of numerous forts, from full-fledged complexes to minor defensive posts, scattered across its landscape.

Early Fortifications:

Prehistoric and Proto-Historic Era:

• Fortifications date back to prehistoric times when natural and artificial means were used for protection. The Harappan civilization (c. 3000-1500 BCE) provides the earliest archaeological evidence of fortified cities like Dholavira and Harappa, with impressive walls and citadels.

Historic Period:

• By the 4th century BCE, fortified cities such as Pataliputra, Kosambi, Ujjain, and Takshashila emerged. These cities often had ramparts, gates, and bastions for protection.

Fort Architecture and Evolution:

Material and Methods:

• Early forts used earthen ramparts, rubble and earth, and later, stone and masonry. Hill passes were fortified using local rocks, as seen in Rajgriha.

Design and Layout:

• Forts varied in design, influenced by regional styles and the ruling dynasties. They included features like citadels, defensive walls, bastions, and moats. The introduction of artillery in the 16th century led to thicker walls and extended bastions.

Types of Forts:

Kautilya’s Classification:

• In the Arthashastra, Kautilya categorizes forts into six types based on their major modes of defense:
  • Jal-Durga (Water Fort)
  • Dhanvana or Maru-Durga (Desert Fort)
  • Giri-Durga (Hill Fort)
  • Vana-Durga (Forest Fort)
  • Mahi-Durga (Earthen Fort)
  • Nri-Durga (Human Fort)
• Examples: Notable examples include the hill forts of Chittorgarh and Gwalior, the desert fort of Jaisalmer, and the water fort of Murud-Janjira.

Forts through Dynasties:

• Rajput Forts: Examples include Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, and Jaisalmer, characterized by their massive stone walls and strategic locations.
• Sultanate and Mughal Forts: Forts like Agra Fort and Delhi’s Red Fort represent Mughal architectural grandeur with their extensive use of red sandstone and intricate designs.
• Maratha and Sikh Forts: Maratha forts like Raigad and Rajgad, and Sikh forts like Qila Mubarak in Patiala, illustrate regional defensive strategies and architectural styles.
• Colonial Forts: European powers built forts such as Fort St. George in Chennai and Fort William in Kolkata, incorporating European defensive techniques.

Significance

• Strategic Importance: Forts were crucial for the defense of kingdoms, protecting against invasions and serving as military strongholds.
• Political and Administrative Centres: Many forts served as administrative hubs and royal residences, symbolizing the power and authority of rulers.
• Cultural and Architectural Heritage: Forts are a testament to India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage, reflecting the diverse influences and engineering prowess of different periods.
• Economic and Trade Control: Strategically located forts controlled trade routes and economic resources, enhancing the wealth and stability of kingdoms.

Conclusion

• Forts played a vital role in the history of India, serving as military bastions, administrative centres, and symbols of power. Their architectural diversity and strategic importance highlight the ingenuity and resilience of ancient Indian societies. Today, these forts stand as monumental heritage sites, offering insights into India’s rich historical legacy and contributing to its cultural tourism.

2. Defence architecture of forts of Andhra Pradesh & Telangana

Introduction: The forts in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana stand as remnants of ancient architectural marvels, reflecting the region’s historical significance and defensive strategies.

Early History and Evolution

• Forts and fortified towns date back to the accounts of Megasthenes and Pliny, indicating strategic importance in ancient times.
• Initially constructed with mud and brick, these forts evolved into formidable stone structures during medieval periods.

Significance of Forts

• Centres of power and governance: These forts served as administrative centres, protecting rulers and their subjects.
• Cultural and historical significance: They are repositories of architectural and cultural heritage, providing insights into past societies.

Key Forts in Andhra Pradesh

• Kondapalli Fort: Located in the NTR district, it exemplifies Indo-Saracenic architecture and witnessed rule under various dynasties including the Qutb Shahis.
• Kondaveedu and Addanki Forts: Initially Reddy kingdom strongholds, these forts saw conflicts involving Gajapatis, Vijayanagara, and later, the Qutb Shahis.
• Udayagiri Fort: Strategically situated in PSR Nellore district, it was pivotal during Vijayanagara rule and later annexed by the Qutb Shahis.
• Gooty Fort: An extensive fortification in the Anantapuramu district with layered defences, symbolizing the resistance against various invaders including the Marathas and Mughals.
• Penugonda Fort: Once the capital of the IV dynasty of Vijayanagara kings, it faced multiple attacks from Adil Shahi and Qutb Shahi forces.

Key Forts in Telangana

• Warangal Fort: Known for its Kakatiya legacy, it features concentric fortifications and impressive stone architecture, showcasing advanced medieval fortification techniques.
• Bhongir Fort: A prominent hill fort, it served as a strategic stronghold during the Kakatiya and later Qutb Shahi periods, known for its steep slopes and unique architecture.
• Golconda Fort: Famous for its impregnable structure and diamond mines, it played a crucial role under the Qutb Shahi dynasty and later came under the control of the Nizams.

Image: Warangal Northern Fortification

Issues

• Preservation challenges: Many forts face deterioration due to neglect and lack of conservation efforts.
• Urban encroachment: Surrounding urbanization threatens the integrity of these historical sites.

Solutions

• Conservation initiatives: Government and community-driven efforts to restore and maintain these forts.
• Awareness and tourism: Promoting these sites as tourist attractions to generate interest and funding for conservation.

Conclusion

• The forts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana not only symbolize architectural prowess but also serve as cultural landmarks that connect the present with the rich historical past. Efforts towards their preservation are essential to safeguarding their heritage for future generations.

3. Golconda Fort – The Impenetrable Fortress

4. Vellore Fort: The Great Garrison of South India

Introduction

• Vellore Fort, known as “the iron throne of South India,” has been a seat of power for various dynasties including the Pallavas, Cholas, Marathas, Bijapur Sultans, and Arcot Nawabs. Located in Vellore, Tamil Nadu, it is a significant historical and architectural landmark.

History

Early History and Construction:

• Built in 1556 AD by Chinna Bommi Nayak and Timma Nayak, under the Vijayanagar Empire, it served as a stronghold and headquarters.
• Later, it became a pivotal centre during the Vijayanagar rule and saw strategic importance during battles like the Battle of Toppur.

Under Various Dynasties:

• Aravidu Dynasty: Used as a military base during conflicts with the Bijapur Sultanate.
• Marathas: Captured in 1678 AD after a prolonged siege.
• Mughals: Captured in 1707 AD by Daud Khan after Aurangzeb’s death, marking a shift in control.
• British East India Company: Became a major garrison from 1799 until Indian Independence in 1947.

Vellore Mutiny (1806):

• First significant mutiny by Indian soldiers against the British.
• Occurred due to discontent over new regulations and turbans imposed by General Agnew.
• Led to a brief, violent uprising within the fort, though it was swiftly suppressed by the British.

Architectural Significance

• Medieval Architecture: A classic example of medieval architecture in South India, primarily built of granite.

Structures Inside the Fort:

• Jalakanteswara Temple: Built by the Vijayanagar Empire, known for its intricate sculptures.
• Mahals: Including Tipu Mahal, Begam Mahal, and Khandi Mahal, showcasing lavish interiors.
• St John’s Church and Mosque: Reflecting the religious diversity and architectural styles of different periods.
• Archaeological Museum: Houses a diverse collection spanning ancient to modern artefacts.

Tourist Attractions

• Local Attractions: Sripuram Golden Temple, Muthu Mandapam, Amirithi Zoological Park, and Armamalai Cave Paintings.
• Location and Accessibility: Centrally located in Vellore city, accessible via road, rail, and air.

Conclusion

• Vellore Fort stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural heritage of South India. From its origins under the Vijayanagar Empire to its role in colonial conflicts, the fort has witnessed centuries of political upheaval and cultural evolution. Today, it serves as a major tourist attraction and a reminder of India’s historical resilience and architectural prowess.

5. Medieval Ports and Forts

Introduction

• Maharashtra’s coastal geography has played a significant role in its history, especially during the medieval period. The Sahyadri mountain range gives rise to numerous rivers that flow into the Arabian Sea, forming creeks along the coast. These geographical features facilitated the construction of various forts, particularly at the mouths of these creeks, to protect trade and commerce.

Coastal Forts

• The coastal region of Maharashtra is characterized by bays with narrow inlets or creeks, coastal plains, and headlands. Numerous forts were constructed at strategic points to guard against invasions and to control trade routes. Examples include:
  • Revdanda and Korlai Forts on Kundalika Creek
  • Janjira Fort near Danda Rajapuri Creek
• Out of twenty-eight major creeks in Maharashtra, twenty-one have forts at their mouths as well as further upstream.

Inland (Hinterland) Forts

• Forts situated more than two kilometres from the coast are known as inland or hinterland forts. These forts played a crucial role in securing the hinterland and ensuring the safe passage of goods to and from the ports. Notable inland forts include:
  • Birwadi Fort
  • Avchitgad Fort

Ports and Trade

• Maharashtra’s ports were hubs of trade, interacting with various regions and countries. Significant ports included:
  • Sopara
  • Sanjan
  • Chaul
  • Thana
  • Kalyan
• These ports facilitated extensive trade with the West and were mentioned in historical records and travel accounts from various periods.

Strategic Importance and Fort Construction

• The fortifications in Maharashtra were often strategically placed to protect trading activities and maritime routes. Some key points include:
  • Kundalika Creek: Chaul and Revdanda Forts
  • Mandad Creek: Janjira Fort
• Excavations at these sites have revealed significant historical and archaeological data, confirming their importance in maritime trade.

Decline of Ports

• The rise of Mumbai as a major port led to the decline of smaller ports like Chaul and Dabhol. Siltation of rivers also contributed to the reduced navigability of these ports, further diminishing their significance.

Significance

• The forts and ports of medieval Maharashtra were instrumental in shaping the region’s trade and defense mechanisms. 
• They facilitated the flow of goods and people, contributing to the economic and cultural exchanges between India and other parts of the world. The strategic construction of forts ensured the protection of these vital trade routes from foreign invasions and internal conflicts.

Conclusion

• The medieval ports and forts of Maharashtra are a testament to the region’s rich history and strategic importance in maritime trade. These structures not only served military purposes but also played a crucial role in the economic prosperity of the region. Understanding their history and significance provides valuable insights into the historical development of trade and defense mechanisms in coastal Maharashtra.