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| Gulbarga FortN.Karnataka incredibleindia.com |
The Gulbarga Fort, located in the city of Gulbarga in North Karnataka, is a significant historical monument and a testament to the powerful Bahmani Sultanate. Originally built by Raja Gulchand during the Warangal dynastic rule, the fort was later strengthened by Sultan Sikandar-i-Sani Ala-ud-din Hasan Bahaman Shah-al-Wali. This sultan was none other than Hasan Gangu, an officer under Mohammed-bin-Tughlaq, who founded the Bahmani Kingdom in 1347 after a revolt against the Delhi ruler. Gulbarga served as the kingdom's capital until 1424 before the capital was moved to Bidar Fort.
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| Gulbarga FortN.Karnataka incredibleindia.com |
The fort's history is marked by conflict, particularly with the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. It was destroyed by Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagar Kingdom, but later reconstructed by Adil Shah, who established the Adil Shah dynasty. The fort was further enlarged in 1347 by Ala-ud-din Bahmani
Historical Context and Rulership
Pre-Bahmani History: The fort's origins trace back even earlier than the Bahmani dynasty. It was initially a smaller fortification built by Raja Gulchand of the Kakatiya dynasty of Warangal, possibly in the 12th century. The area was also under the rule of Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, and Kalachuris before coming under the Delhi Sultanate.
A Symbol of Independence: When Alauddin Hasan Bahman Shah (formerly Zafar Khan) revolted against the Delhi Sultanate in 1347, he chose Gulbarga as his capital and fortified it, symbolizing the establishment of the first independent Muslim kingdom of the Deccan. The city was even named 'Ahsenabad' during this period.
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| World's largest cannon,Gulburga fort, KA panoramio.com |
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| Largest cannon,Gulburga Fort KA en.wikipedia.org |
The World's Longest Cannon: The fort is home to the "Bara Gazi Toph," which is considered the world's longest cannon. Made of five metals (Panch Dhatu), it is 29 feet long, with a diameter of 2 feet and a thickness of 7 inches. This colossal weapon is a testament to the military engineering of the time.
Architectural Features and Significance
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| Gulburga Fort KA Facebook.com |
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| Jama masjid,Gulburga fort,.oyorooms.com |
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| Jama masjid,Gulburga fort,KA indiamonuments.org |
Above image: The Jamia Mosque within Gulbuga Fort one of the first in South India,.........
Military Architecture: The fort is a prime example of military architecture. It has a double fortification with a 30-foot-wide moat between the walls, which are 50 feet thick. The fort also features 15 bastions and 26 guns, some of which were revolving cannons. Its colossal western entrance has four gates and four courtyards, designed to be an almost impregnable defense system.
Bala Hisar: The fort's main citadel, the Bala Hisar, is a prominent feature. It was used as the royal residence and a last refuge for the rulers. The citadel is hewn from black stone and has semi-circular turrets.
Indo-Persian Style: The establishment of the Bahmani kingdom brought a significant Persian influence to the Deccan. This is evident in the fort's architecture, including its mosques, arches, gardens, and palaces. The style that evolved here is a unique fusion of Indo-Persian traditions.
The Jama Masjid's Uniqueness: While the initial text mentions the unique design, it's worth noting that the mosque's central dome is 80 feet in diameter, and its interior is decorated with flowers and creepers. The design is so masterful that the voice of the prayer leader can be heard clearly in every corner without a public address system. The mosque is also said to be the second-largest in Asia.
Current Status and Challenges
ASI Management: The fort is under the management of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is a protected national monument.
State of Disrepair: Despite its historical significance and protected status, there are reports of the fort and its monuments being in a state of neglect. Sources mention that parts of the fort are dilapidated, with some ruined structures covered in plants.
Restoration Efforts and Concerns: While the ASI has undertaken conservation work, there have been concerns about the quality of some past restoration projects. Some reports mention that parts of the plaster have peeled off, and there are concerns about the structural integrity of the Jama Masjid due to water leakage during the rainy season. There have also been issues with rubble and garbage being dumped in the fort's moat.
Call for Action: There is a growing call from archaeologists and researchers for more concrete steps from the government and the ASI to restore and preserve these historical sites properly.
UNESCO Status
Tentative World Heritage Site: As part of the "Monuments and Forts of the Deccan Sultanate," Gulbarga Fort was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site's "tentative list" in 2014. This highlights its global cultural and historical importance.
https://www.karnataka.com/gulbarga/about-gulbarga/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulbarga_Fort
https://www.oyorooms.com/travel-guide/gulbarga-fort-travel-guide
