Question

Why did Shivaji build and maintain hundreds of forts within the Swaraj territory?

Answer 1

Instructions :

1. Mention the surveillance aspect of the forts.
2. Mention the uses of a fort in times of conflict.
3. Explain the importance of sea forts.

Solution: Shivaji Maharaj spent a substantial amount of time and money on the building and repair of the 300 forts that were under the Swaraj. Each of these forts had a Killedar, a Sabnis and a Karkhanis. The Karkhanis was responsible for storing groceries and maintaining the weapons in the fort.

Shivaji Maharaj laid great importance on forts because:

• Shivaji wanted to make sure that the Swaraj territory had sufficient defensive installations.
  
• Forts were great for watching over the large area around them.
  
• In the event of an attack from an invader, the fort could protect the people in it.
  
• The fort could also be stocked up with groceries and weapons to launch a counterattack against the enemy.
  
• Shivaji Maharaj also built some sea forts which helped the Swaraj keep an eye on their shores.
  
• The Forts of Sindhudurga at Malwan and Padmadurga at Rajapuri were important sea forts.