chatrapati shivaji maharaj fort
Raigad Fort
Raiad Fort – The Pride of the Maratha Empire
Raigad Fort is one of the most important and majestic forts in Maharashtra. Located in the Sahyadri mountain range near Mahad in the Raigad district, the fort stands at a height of about 2,700 feet (820 meters) above sea level. It is not just a fort but a symbol of Maratha pride and glory, as it served as the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s empire.
History
Originally known as Rairi Fort, Raigad was built by Chandrarao More of the Jawali kingdom. In 1656, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj captured it and recognized its strategic importance. He reconstructed and expanded it, turning it into his royal capital. He renamed it Raigad, meaning “Fort of Royalty.”
In 1674, the coronation ceremony of Shivaji Maharaj took place here, marking the official beginning of the Maratha Empire. From Raigad, he ruled his kingdom, made laws, and led his armies. After Shivaji’s death in 1680, the fort passed to his son Sambhaji Maharaj, but it was later captured by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1689, who renamed it Islamgad. In 1818, the British destroyed much of the fort during their conquest of the Maratha territories.
Architecture
Raigad Fort is a masterpiece of Maratha architecture and military planning. The fort covers a large area and includes palaces, watchtowers, water tanks, temples, and marketplaces.
The Maha Darwaza is the grand entrance, built to intimidate enemies. Inside lies the Raj Sabha (Durbar Hall), where Shivaji Maharaj held meetings with his ministers. The throne platform in the Durbar still exists, symbolizing royal authority.
The Jagadishwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, was regularly visited by Shivaji Maharaj. Near it stands the Samadhi (tomb) of Shivaji Maharaj — a place of great reverence. Another notable point is Takmak Tok, a cliff used for executing traitors, which today offers a breathtaking view of the valley below.
The Bazarpeth (market street) on Raigad is unique, as shops were built in two parallel rows with equal-sized stalls — showing Shivaji’s sense of fairness in trade.