Devgiri Daulatatabad Fort - Highly secured but Still fallen to enemy -EP04 @MohanParthasarathy08

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Brief History of Daulatabad (Devgiri) Fort
1. Early History (12th Century) - Yadava Dynasty
Originally known as Devgiri, the fort was built in the 12th century by King Bhilanadev Yadav of the Yadava Dynasty.
It became the capital of the Yadavas and flourished as a powerful kingdom.
2. Delhi Sultanate Conquest (1296 - 1327)
In 1296 CE, Alauddin Khilji’s general Malik Kafur invaded Devgiri, forcing King Ramachandra Yadav to surrender.
Later, in 1337 CE, Muhammad bin Tughlaq renamed it Daulatabad and shifted his capital from Delhi to here.
However, due to water scarcity and logistical issues, he shifted back to Delhi.
3. Bahmani, Nizam Shahi & Mughal Rule (14th - 17th Century)
The fort passed through different hands:
Bahmani Sultanate (1347)
Nizam Shahi of Ahmednagar (1499)
Mughals (1600), captured by Emperor Akbar
Aurangzeb used it as a military base
4. Marathas & British Rule (18th - 19th Century)
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj briefly controlled the fort.
Later, it was captured by the Nizams of Hyderabad and remained under them until the British annexed it in 1948.
Significance of Daulatabad Fort
Famous for its strategic hilltop location, maze-like tunnels, and strong defense system.
Yes, the Devgiri (Daulatabad) Fort was considered one of the most secure and impregnable forts in India due to its strategic location, strong fortifications, and unique defense mechanisms. However, despite its high security, it still fell into the hands of several invaders over the centuries. Here’s why:
Why was Daulatabad Fort highly secured?
Strategic Location: Built on a conical hill, making direct attacks difficult.
Triple Fortification System: The fort had multiple layers of defense, with massive walls, moats, and steep pathways.
Narrow Entrance Paths: The fort had a complex entry system designed to confuse enemies.
Dark Passages (Andheri): These were maze-like tunnels to trap and ambush invaders.
Strong Water Supply System: Several reservoirs provided water even during sieges.
How Did the Fort Still Fall to Enemies?
Lack of Resources for Long Sieges: While the fort was strong, prolonged sieges could exhaust food and resources.
Betrayal from Inside: Treachery and conspiracies among local rulers often led to its capture.
Use of Advanced Siege Tactics: Powerful armies, like those of the Delhi Sultanate, Mughals, and Marathas, used superior military strategies and weaponry.
Deception & Diplomacy: Invaders sometimes gained control through trickery rather than brute force.
Notable Captures of Daulatabad Fort
1296 CE: Alauddin Khilji's general Malik Kafur invaded Devgiri
Considered one of the most impregnable forts in Indian history.
A UNESCO-recognized historical and architectural marvel in Maharashtra.
Today, Daulatabad Fort is a major tourist attraction and a testament to India's rich history.
Bibi Ka Maqbara - The ‘Mini Taj Mahal’ of the Deccan
1. Introduction
Bibi Ka Maqbara is a grand mausoleum located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.
It is often called the "Taj of the Deccan" due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
Built in 1668-1669 CE by Azam Shah, the son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum.
2. Architectural Features
Designed by architect Ata-ullah and engineer Hanspat Rai.
The structure stands on a high platform with four minarets, similar to the Taj Mahal.
Made of white marble, but with lesser grandeur compared to the Taj Mahal.
The central tomb is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and Persian-style floral designs.
3. Historical Context
Unlike the Taj Mahal, which was built with unlimited resources by Shah Jahan, Bibi Ka Maqbara was constructed with a limited budget during Aurangzeb’s reign.
It reflects Mughal architectural style, but with simpler ornamentation.
4. Significance & Present-Day Status
A major tourist attraction in Maharashtra.
Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
It stands as a symbol of Mughal-era architecture and love in the Deccan region.
Conclusion
Though not as grand as the Taj Mahal, Bibi Ka Maqbara remains an important historical and architectural marvel, showcasing the Mughal influence in South India.
Equiptment used :
1. Action camera GoPro 12
2. Action camera Akaso 4
3. Iphone 15 promax
4 Canon M50 mirrorless.
5. Dashcam
6.Selfistick
7.Hat clip