Shivneri Fort

Shivneri Fort in Pune of Maharashtra, was the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Maratha Empire.

About the Shivneri Fort:

• Shivneri Fort in Pune of Maharashtra, was the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Maratha Empire.
• Built on steep slopes, the fort served as a strategic stronghold and was renowned for its strength to withstand attack.
• The fort’s history dates back to ancient times, as it was mentioned in records dating to the Satvahanas and Yadavas.
• Shivneri Fort witnessed various shifts in control, from the Bahamani Empire to the Marathas under the leadership of Shivaji Maharaj.
• Shivneri got its name as it was under the possession of the Yadavas of Devagiri.
• This fort was mainly used to guard the old trading route from Desh to the port city of Kalyan.
• It is triangular in shape and has its entrance from the South-west side of the hill.
• Apart from the main gate there is an entrance to the fort from side locally called the chain gate, where in one has to hold chains to climb up to the fort gate.
• There are mud walls all around the fort.
• Inside the fort, the major buildings are the prayer hall, a tomb and a mosque.

Shivneri Fort consists of:

• Temple of Goddess Shivai: Located within the fort premises, housing the idol of Goddess Shivai and associated caves.
• Ambarkhana: Formerly a storage facility for food grains, now showing signs of damage.
• Water Tanks: Named after sacred rivers like Ganga and Yamuna, serving as vital water sources within the fort.
• Shivkunj: A memorial dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj, depicting scenes from his childhood dreams and interactions with his mother, Jijamata.
• Birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj: A two-story building where the Maratha king was born, now housing a statue in his honour.
• Kadelot Kada: A precipice used for administering punishments, symbolizing the fort’s strict governance.

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