Devagiri Daulatabad Fort
Daulatabad fort near Aurangabad city in Maharashtra is one of the best examples of fort security. In addition, it is a good example of army engineering, city planning, water arrangements and buildings with political and religious importance. The security arrangements in this fort make it almost impossible to conquer and it became favourite of all kings in this region.
Brief History of Fort:
Constructed by Yadav kings in eleventh century and named it as Devgiri
Khilji kings captured this fort in twelfth century
Sultan Mohammad-Bin-Tughlak renamed this fort to Daulatabad and shifted his capital from Delhi to this fort. But he has to cancel his plan.
In 1499, Nijamshah captured this fort and made it capital in 1607
In 1633, for longer time this fort was under rulling of Mughal ruler Akbar and Shahjan
This fort was also ruled by Maratha kings
Saint Eknath Maharaj’s spiritual Guru Janardhan Swami also stayed on this fort
How to Reach:
It is around 16km from Aurangabad city. One can get private (authorized) vehicles from the city bus stand to the fort. State transport bus is also a good option to reach the fort. One can walk walk up to the top of the fort from the bottom in approximately half an hour (depends on individual).
What to see:
Security arrangements in the fort: It has two deep ditches – one dry and other filled in with water, angled doors with strong nails to destory any collision by elephant to open the door, also cannon placement and darkness as per need. Entire fort is surrounded by wall to stop enemy at first hurdle.
Mendha Toaf (Cannon on the top with head resembling to a sheep).
Bhul bhulaiya (maze): Darkness and small passages to confuse one while trying to go to fort top.
Chand Minar: Beautiful 110 feet high tower containing moon on top is an example of Persian art in India.
Kalkot: Royal residence
Chini Mahal: Double storied building was used as a prison.
Baradari: Having twelve arches, this building is on the top. It was favourite residence of Shah Jahan and Aurangazeb.
