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(GIST OF YOJANA) Forts of Gujarat

(JUNE-2024)

Gujarat, a land steeped in history and culture, is adorned with magnificent forts that stand as timeless monuments to the region’s rich heritage. From the rugged hills of Junagadh to the serene shores of Diu, each fort narrates a saga of valour, conquest, resilience, and architectural brilliance. In this article, we embark on a journey to unravel the secrets of Gujarat’s most prominent forts, delving into their historical significance, cultural importance, architectural splendour, and ongoing preservation efforts.

Uparkot Fort, located in the heart of Junagadh, is a treasure trove of ancient history believed to have been built in 319 BC by the Mauryan emperor Chandragupta. Carved out of the rocky terrain, this fort served as a stronghold for various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Chudasamas. Its strategic location atop a steep hill provided natural defences against invasions, making it an impregnable fortress. It’s been besieged 16 times, and legend has it that the fort once withstood a 12-year siege
Preservation Efforts: In 1893-94, Haridas Viharidas, the Dewan of Junagadh State, restored the fort. In July 2020, the Government of Gujarat initiated the restoration of the fort and the structures inside it, focusing on the ancient step-wells, gateways, and fortifications. Community engagement initiatives are also being implemented to foster a sense of ownership and encourage local participation in preservation efforts.
Legend: The Chudasamas ruled over nearby Vanasthali, and, during those times, a woodcutter discovered a stone wall and a gate. A sadhu who was meditating nearby said that it was Juna, or old, and the woodcutter reported his discovery to the Chudasama ruler, who cleared the area and uncovered the fort. The later Chudasama ruler Navaghana restored the fort and shifted his capital from Vanasthali to Junagadh. So the place became known as ‘Junagadh’

Pavagadh Champaner Fort, situated atop a volcanic hill near the town of Champaner, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the cultural diversity and architectural brilliance of medieval Gujarat. This magnificent fortress, built over centuries, bears witness to the confluence of diverse influences and the ingenuity of its builders, making it a cherished landmark in Gujarat.

The historic Bhujiya Fort is located on the top of Bhujiya Hill on the outskirts of the town of Bhuj in the district of Kutch. Bhujiya is named after Bhujang, a snake. It was believed that the Snake God, who provided protection, was worshipped by the people. Construction began in 1715 under Rao Godji I, the ruler of the Kutch Kingdom.
Legend: The first major battle at Bhujiya Fort was fought during the early part of the reign of Deshalji I, when Sher Buland Khan, who was Mughal Viceroy of Gujarat at that time, invaded Kutch. The army of Kutch was in a precarious condition, when a group of Naga Bawas got the gate of Bhujiya Fort opened on pretext of visiting Nag temple for worship and then joined in the fray against Sher Buland Khan’s army. Since that day Naga Bawa and their leader have had a place of importance in a procession held on Nag Panchami.

Bhadra Fort is situated in the wailed city area of Ahmedabad. It was built by Ahmad Shah I in 1411. The fort adopted the name Bhadra after a temple of Bhadra Kali, a form of Laxmi, which was established during Maratha rule. The fort was also called Aark Fort centuries ago. Bhadra Fort stands as a symbol of Ahmedabad’s foundation and the rise of the Gujarat Sultanate. The British captured the fort in 1817 and used it as a prison until independence. It was renovated in 2014 by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and the Archaeological Survey of India as a cultural centre for the city so that people could get a glimpse of history.

The forts of Gujarat serve as living testaments to the region’s rich and diverse heritage, reflecting the influences of various dynasties and cultures that have shaped its history. These forts not only served as military strongholds but also as centres of political, economic, and cultural activity, fostering trade, commerce, and intellectual exchange. They bear witness to the syncretic blend of Hindu, Islamic, and European influences that characterise Gujarat’s cultural landscape, exemplified in the architectural styles, religious traditions, and culinary delights of the region.