The Mighty Pratapgarh

Introduction

Hey there! As some of you requested here is another blog post about the incredible Pratapgarh Fort. So, let's dive right in!

Goddess Bhavani

Pratapgad fort has immense historical significance as it was built during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha warrior king. It served as a strategic fortification against the enemies and played a crucial role in defending the Maratha kingdom. The historic fortress nestled in the Sahyadri Mountain Range in Maharashtra, India.

The imposing structure of Pratapgarh Fort stands tall at an altitude of 1,080 meters, affording breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The fort's unique design is picturesque, with its massive walls, bastions, and watchtowers. It houses several areas, including a temple dedicated to the goddess Bhavani, significant to Shivaji's devotion.

It holds great significance as it was the site of an iconic battle between Chhatrapati

The Secret Tunnel

Shivaji, the legendary Maratha warrior king, and Afzal Khan, an army general of the Adil Shahi dynasty. The magnificent fort was constructed in the 17th century and showcases exquisite architecture and strategic marvel. Pratapgad fort is said to have a secret underground tunnel that connects it to the nearby Panhala fort. This tunnel served as an escape route during times of war or emergency.

Another interesting feature of Pratapgad fort is its natural beauty and breathtaking views. The fort is surrounded by lush greenery and dense forests, providing a tranquil setting for nature lovers. From the top of the fort, one can witness panoramic views of the Sahyadri mountain range and the surrounding landscape.

The fort also holds religious importance as it houses a temple dedicated to Goddess Bhavani, who is believed to be the family deity of Shivaji Maharaj. Thousands of devotees visit the temple every year, especially during the Navratri festival.

Some interesting facts about Pratapgarh👇🏼

📌The fort is situated 24 kilometres from the Mahabaleshwar hill station. The fort is now a popular tourist destination.

📌The Fort was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to protect the banks of the Nira and Koyna rivers and the Par Pass.

📌At present, this fort is owned by Uday Raje Bhosale, the successor of the former Satara princely state.

📌 The fort is divided internally into the Upper and lower fort

📌The upper fort was built on the top of the hill. It is roughly square and is 180 meters long on each side. It has many permanent buildings including a temple for Lord Mahadev. It is located to the north-west of the fort and is surrounded by cliffs with drops of up to 250 meters.

📌It is believed that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaja was blessed with a shining sword at the temple of Goddess Bhavani in Pratapgarh.

📌In 1957, a 17-foot-tall equestrian bronze statue of Shivaji Maharaj was erected at Pratapgad by the then Prime minister of India Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru.

📌There is a cultural library in the fort that shares all the information about the fort.

Don't forget to watch the video interview of the Pratapgad Guide where he has explained every historical fact about Pratapgad. The pride in his voice tells it all!!

Jai Bhavani!!! Jai Maharashtra