Bhagawantgad Fort
Bhagawantgad Fort – A Historical Heritage and Spiritual Site
Introduction:
Bhagawantgad Fort is a historical fort located near the village of Chindar in Sindhudurg district, Maharashtra. Situated in the naturally beautiful Konkan coastal region, this fort is not only of historical importance but also holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the people of Chindar and the surrounding villages.
Geographical Location:
Bhagawantgad Fort is located in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, near the village of Chindar in Malvan taluka. The fort is perched on a hill, offering a picturesque view of the surrounding nature, the Arabian Sea, and distant mountain ranges. Its coordinates are approximately:
- Latitude: 16.0523° N
- Longitude: 73.5740° E
The fort is situated about 15 kilometers south of Malvan, a popular coastal town. The area is renowned for its sacred shores and lush green hills.
History:
Bhagawantgad Fort is believed to have been built during the medieval period, though the exact date of construction and the name of the ruler who commissioned it are not definitively recorded. Given its location and structural characteristics, it was likely used as a significant military outpost. Its strategic importance increased during the Maratha Empire when it became a key defensive structure.
Fort Construction:
The fort is presumed to have been constructed in the 17th century during the era of the Maratha Empire. It may have been built under the expansion efforts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to protect the Konkan coastline from foreign invasions. The fort includes several gates, walls, and watchtowers, which further enhance its historical importance.
Control Over the Fort:
Bhagawantgad Fort was under the rule of different powers over time:
- Maratha Empire: Initially controlled by the Marathas during their reign.
- British Era: After the fall of the Maratha Empire, the fort came under British control.
- Post-Independence: After India’s independence, the fort came under the protection of the Maharashtra state and is currently managed by the State Archaeology Department.
Current Importance:
Bhagawantgad Fort has become a popular spot for trekking. The fort offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, attracting both tourists and history enthusiasts. Though the fort is partially in ruins, its historical value remains intact.
Cultural Significance:
For the people of Chindar and nearby villages, Bhagawantgad Fort stands as a symbol of historical pride, keeping alive the legacy of traditional warriors from the region. It is a vital cultural heritage site.
Spiritual Significance:
At the heart of the fort lies the Siddheshwar Temple, which is the main source of its spiritual significance. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is revered by locals who regularly offer prayers and perform rituals. The peaceful and refreshing environment of the fort provides a tranquil space for devotees, especially during Mahashivratri, when the temple becomes a hub of religious activity.
Creators of the Fort and Temple:
Although it is not exactly known which ruler or dynasty constructed Bhagawantgad Fort, it is generally believed to have been built during the Maratha Empire, possibly under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj. The Siddheshwar Temple, located within the fort, was likely built sometime after the fort’s construction. Its architecture is simple yet spiritually uplifting.
Future of Bhagawantgad Fort:
The future vision for Bhagawantgad Fort focuses on its preservation and promotion as a tourist destination. Due to its historical and spiritual relevance, efforts to conserve the fort are increasingly important. As tourism grows in the region, local development is likely, but maintaining the fort’s historical and spiritual integrity is essential.
Key References:
Tourism & Information Websites:
- Maharashtra Tourism
- Malvan Tourism
- Trekkers' Forum – Bhagawantgad Fort
Historical References:
- History of the Maratha Empire – James Grant Duff
- History of Maharashtra – R.G. Bhandarkar
Though Bhagawantgad Fort may not be one of the most famous forts in Indian history, for the people of Chindar, it is a symbol of their historical, cultural, and spiritual identity.
Nearby Important Forts and Places of Interest:
- Sindhudurg Fort (Malvan Fort)
- Distance: ~10 km from Bhagawantgad
- Importance: Built by Shivaji Maharaj in the 16th century. Located on an island, it served as a crucial defense point against foreign invasions on the Konkan coast.
- Distance: ~10 km from Bhagawantgad
- Vijaydurg Fort:
- Distance: ~60 km
- Importance: Also known as “Vijay Killa,” this 12th-century fort is renowned for its grand structure and impenetrable defenses. It was a major naval base for the Marathas.
- Distance: ~60 km
- Tarkarli Beach:
- Distance: ~15 km
- Importance: Known for its crystal-clear waters and a hotspot for scuba diving.
- Distance: ~15 km
- Devbagh Beach:
- Distance: ~12 km
- Importance: A serene and beautiful beach, ideal for peace and relaxation.
- Distance: ~12 km
- Shivsena Temple (Shivshen Dham):
- Distance: ~8 km
- Importance: A lesser-known but culturally significant Shiva temple.
- Distance: ~8 km
- Siddheshwar Temple (within Bhagawantgad Fort):
- Importance: A spiritually vital site, attracting many devotees, especially during Mahashivratri.
- Importance: A spiritually vital site, attracting many devotees, especially during Mahashivratri.
- Anganewadi – Shri Bharadi Devi Temple:
- Distance: ~21 km
- Importance: A famous temple dedicated to the Goddess, known for its annual fair in February that draws large crowds.
- Distance: ~21 km
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Masure Bandivade bridge
Masure Bandivade bridge on Gad River is Scenic Beauty with Beautiful Sunrise and Lovely sunset, a magnificent bridge in the state of Maharashtra, India.
The Gad River is one of the West Flowing Rivers in Maharashtra falling into Arabian Sea. The important town of Kankavli is situated on the banks of two Rivers, the Gad River and the Janavli River. Janavli river is one of the tributaries of Gad river, which merge with Gad river at Warawade Falshewadi. The Gad Basin lies between North latitude 16º to 16º 20' and East longitude 73º 30’ to 74º approximately. The CWC Hydrological Observation Station is located at Belne Bridge. The Gad rises from the Sahyadri hill ranges in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra at an elevation of 600m above M.S.L. The total length of the River from its origin to its outfall at Sarjekot Fort, Kolam into the Arabian Sea is 66 km. The Gad drains an area of 890 sq km which lies completely in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra. The important major tributary of the Gad River is Kasal. The Kasal River confluences with the river Gad near the village Chunavara. During monsoon, tidal effect reaches up to this village. The Kasal River accounts for 20.8% of the total catchment area of the Gad.
Constructed in the year 2013-14, this bridge is an important landmark in the region and a symbol of the progress that the region has made in the past several decades. Before the bridge was built, the only way that people could access the other side of the river was to take a boat. This was a tedious and dangerous task, as it required crossing the turbulent and often dangerous waters of the river. During monsoon the crossing the river was difficult and dangerous, due to that major part of the season the crossing by boat is closed by the authorities. This also hindered any kind of commerce and trade between the two villages.
The construction of the bridge has greatly improved the accessibility of the villages and other areas around the river, and it has saved many lives. The bridge has allowed for quick and easy transport of goods, humans and animals across the river, and has allowed for a more efficient exchange of goods and services between the two villages. The Masure Bandivade Bridge is a two-lane bridge that is made of steel and concrete, and it stands at a remarkable height of around 70 meters. The bridge is able to carry two-way traffic and has an amazing view of the river and the landscape around it.
The bridge has also become a popular spot for couples to take their wedding pictures, as the picturesque scenery provides a stunning backdrop for the special day. The bridge have made the location more Scenic Beauty with Beautiful Sunrise and Lovely sunset. The area is filled with people of all ages enjoying the beautiful scenery, talking and laughing with one another, and generally having a good time.
It is a popular spot for visitors, as they are able to take a leisurely stroll on the bridge while enjoying the sights and sounds of the river and the surrounding countryside. The bridge is also used for various activities today, such as fishing and swimming. It is also a popular spot for picnics, as people can enjoy the beauty of the river without having to worry about crossing the dangerous waters.
The Masure Bandivade bridge has become a staple of the villages’ culture and has allowed for a much better flow of goods, services, and culture between the two villages. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the villagers in making the bridge a reality and providing a much-needed lifeline for the two villages. It serves as a reminder that even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome, and that everyone in the area can benefit from the bridge’s presence. The bridge is a perfect symbol of the strength and resilience of the people living in this area, and of the importance of maintaining strong connections between different parts of the country.
The Masure Bandivade Bridge is an important landmark for the people living in the region and for those who come to visit. It is a symbol of progress and a reminder of the past, and it has greatly improved the quality of life for the people living in the region.
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