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The Hindu
16 hours ago
- The Hindu
A guide to Gingee fort, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The privilege of lounging on Monday afternoons is reserved for loafers and lovers. You do not have to take my word for it. Ask one of several hundred people who are scaling Gingee fort at the start of the week, and you would know I am right. Ever since Gingee fort, part of the Mighty Maratha Landscape encompassing 11 other forts, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site last week, footfall has shot up from between 600-700 people a day to about 1,700 over the weekend. Gingee fort, first said to have been built in the 12th Century by Ananda Kon, a chieftain of the Konar (Yadava) community, lies 160 kilometres from Chennai, in Villupuram district. The fort stands on three hills in a dramatic triangular formation — Rajagiri, Krishnagiri and Chandragiri. Within the walls of the three hills, once lay hidden pathways, crocodile-filled moats, golden thrones, barracks, sacrificial stones, and the illusive promise of treasure. Everyone who is scaling the citadel today, is trying to find something — privacy, gold coins, or respite. Kesavan M and Sarguna K, once young lovers, have been meaning to visit since the time they were dating. 'We are from Melmalayanur, not too far away from Gingee. I moved to different parts of the State and we somehow never found the time. The UNESCO announcement is a matter of pride for us. It is why we decided to swing by here on a Monday afternoon. We have waited nine years to climb to the top together. We are married today, but this has been a dream since 2016,' says Kesavan. I'd like to think that doing the four-hour drive from Chennai, and getting lost in the several granaries, magazines, and watch towers of Gingee fort, is one of the finest ways to pass time. The fort brims with stories of romance, war, famine and deceit over 800 years by its several distinct rulers — the Nayaks, Marathas, Mughals, Carnatic Nawabs, the French and British. It begets retelling. History 101 Contrary to UNESCO's declaration of the 'Senji' fort being a Maratha bastion alone, the citadel has swapped hands between several kings. Its most popular rulers were the Nayak of Gingee, chieftains of the Vijayanagara empire, who succeeded Krishna Kon, a ruler who fortified and expanded the fort beyond Rajagiri, establishing Krishnagiri at around 1240 CE. Writer TS Subramanian in his essay, The Impregnable Troy of the East in a book titled Forts of Tamil Nadu by The Hindu and the Department of Tourism, Tamil Nadu, says that it was the Nayaks who helped add the wonderful structures we see atop Rajagiri, the strongest part of the triangular citadel, standing at about 800 feet. Their rule was a largely peaceful period that saw several architectural advancements. As we walk in, one is treated to delightful sights of the ancient kalyana mahal, built in the style of the Vijayanagara school. 'In Kalyana Mahal, there is a beautiful bathing tank with steps all around, made for the royal women,' writes CS Srinivasachari, the author of A History of Gingee and its Rulers (published by Annamalai University, 1943). Besides this, there are mosques, temples, magazines where weapons were stored, granaries, gymnasiums, treasuries, bell towers and secret escape pathways inside the fort, added by subsequent rulers. The Mughal influence on some of the domes and archways inside the fort are unmissable, particularly a treasury built in the Indo-Islamic style. You will also spot two mighty cannons at the fort. Touch the iron on both and imagine what it might have been like to fire at enemies near and far. Ready for the climb? Gingee is located 160 kilometres from Chennai and is enroute Thiruvannamalai. The nearest bus stop is Gingee, railhead is Tindivanam and airport is Chennai. It takes about four hours by road. Carry a stick to fight monkeys, a one-litre water bottle and a snack in case you get hungry. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for the approximately two-hour hike up Rajagiri. A two-day trip would be advisable if you'd like to scale all three hills. Climbing is not permitted after 3pm. A ticket for Indians costs ₹25 and ₹300 for foreigners. Still cameras can be taken for pictures at a cost. However, the usage of drones is prohibited unless permission is sought. Archaeologists from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) unearthed a mighty throne with a backrest made of polished granite and water pipes and tanks that capitalised on the spring water available atop the fort. Although ASI might want us to believe that the several rooms near the throne-like structure are just horse stables, some historians believe that it is also where the harem lies. After taking in the sights at the base of Rajagiri, the ascent to the top of the citadel begins. A well-meaning guard suggests that we carry sticks. Troops have now been replaced by greedy monkeys who loot and plunder bags full of snacks and goodies. If you have been indulging in cardio, the 800 feet climb to the top should be a piece of cake, taking under two and a half hours to climb up and come back down. This is especially so if you are engaging in a petty competition to scale the top with two young boys from Bengaluru who you beg for water from every now and then. A Nithin and Madhan, brothers who are nine and 14 years of age, who have been impatiently waiting for their mother to join them at the top of Rajagiri, say that they have been watching YouTube videos incessantly to prepare for their trek. Sitting outside the treasury, Madhan laments, 'The videos promised treasures. I can't seem to find any even near the treasury. I am excited to go down the hidden pathway at the top but I hear it is blocked. Come on, Nithin, let's go,' he says, cutting our interview short. Gingee's tryst with the Marathas began in 1677 when Chhatrapati Shivaji captured the fort from its then Mughal governor. It remained under Maratha rule until about 1677-1698 when the generals under the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb captured it. It was Shivaji who called the fort the Troy of the East, deeming it impregnable. Whilst in battle for seven years, the Marathas often employed the use of a drawbridge at the top of Rajagiri, causing opposition soldiers to fall to their death if they tried scaling the fort. The fort also prospered under Swarup Singh, a Bundela chief deputed by Aurangazeb in 1700, to take charge of the fort. When he died, his son, the fabled Raja Tej Singh (popularly and incorrectly called De Singh) ruled Gingee for 10 months, from January to October 1714. He tried to fight the Carnatic wing of the now fragmented Mughal kingdom, and take over his father's throne. Several Tamil ballads celebrate his heroic death in the fight against the Nawab of Arcot, especially since he left behind a beautiful young wife who committed sati after he perished in battle. The French and the British then began supplying weapons to local armies, eventually vying for the fort's capture. It was also briefly held by Hyder Ali. The British forces established several magazines and introduced guns to the supplies at the fort. Whilst standing at the very top between the bell tower and the Ranganatha tower and taking in the breeze, it is easy to conjure up images of battle here, especially because a temple procession employing lakshmi vedi passes by. As I get ready to leave, a group of men who have bunked college, fellow loafers, stand by the drawbridge at the top of the fort and ask for a picture. 'Selfies do not capture the might of the fort. But promise us that you won't publish it in the paper,' one of them says. Sepia-tainted thinking tells me that 800 years ago, a similar group of loafers may have made their way up the hill. This time though, they might have been burdened with the weight of a kingdom and not just of college attendance.
India.com
3 days ago
- General
- India.com
Temples In The Depths With Discovering Mumbai's Spiritual Underground
The mega-city Mumbai expands across two different names: the City of Dreams and the 'City of Dreams'. Mumbai exhibits its appeal through high-rise buildings alongside its rich cultural values and unpredictable roadways. Under the modern city's extensive built-up areas exists an undiscovered network of underground temples which contains both spiritual depth along with historical value and remarkable architectural expertise. The subterranean sanctuaries operate as places of worship while simultaneously supporting the recognition of Mumbai's extensive cultural and religious relationships with the past. This piece investigates seven interesting features of elusive underground temple complexes in detail. 1. The Historical Significance of Underground Temples The Mumbai underground temple tradition extends through centuries because different dynasties and rulers built them as part of their historical reign. Underground temple constructions fell beneath ground level to safeguard them from enemy attacks and both natural disasters and damaging elements of opposing armies. The temples originally built by the Silhara dynasty between 810–1240 CE received later support from both Marathas and Portuguese during their time. The survival of these hidden chambers demonstrates that communities used their creativity in architecture to protect their faith in times of need. 2. Walkeshwar Temple South Mumbai showcases the Walkeshwar Temple complex as its prime emblem at Malabar Hill. The site of the primary Lord Shiva temple draws numerous worshippers each year but its associated underground chambers remain little known to most people. The chambers served former religious and meditative purposes when they offered people weatherproof solitude from urban distractions. Kirti Mandir likely served as sacred spaces for devoted believers who wanted to meditate deeply with their divinity apart from the outside world. 3. Babulnath Temple The Babulnath Temple stands as a well-known shrine because it contains sacred underground chambers dedicated to Lord Shiva. The underground shrine of this temple requires the visitor to pass through narrow stone steps that lead inside the temple complex near Girgaum Chowpatty. Researchers believe that the concealed space within the temple existed during its initial construction before builders raised the structure above ground. Religious pilgrims who visit the underground chambers define their experience as deeply spiritual because they feel the combination of sacred vibes and peaceful atmosphere. 4. Mahalakshmi Temple's Cryptic Foundations The Mahalakshmi Temple located in Mumbai serves as one of the city's oldest sanctuaries while keeping several hidden secrets buried beneath its base. Archaeological research identifies portions of the temple base which penetrate into underground chambers that were probably used as storage facilities together with sacred ritual areas during older historical periods. Current restrictions do not limit access to these restrictions which highlight how traditional Indian temple architecture depended on cosmic principles to plan every architectural feature. 5. Siddhivinayak Temple's Lesser-Known Basement Shrines The Siddhivinayak Temple situated in Prabhadevi stands as an emblem for prosperity because people worship Lord Ganesha there. The temple premises hold numerous small shrines which most people who visit the temple fail to notice. Devotees can find extra opportunities to pray because the shrines contain idols of Goddess Annapurna and Lord Hanuman in addition to the primary deity. These temples are reached through corridors that maintain dim light as a result which creates a spiritual environment for devotion. Final Thoughts Mumbai's historically hidden temples represent both historical times and current-day realities that demonstrate the city's permanent vitality together with cultural variety. The subterranean temples at Walkeshwar combine with the concealed sanctuaries at Siddhivinayak to reveal historic stories about faith and architectural skill as well as survival. The development of Mumbai into an international megacity requires immediate action for protecting its hidden treasures. Our commitment to awareness campaigns and conservation efforts will secure the longevity of these underground sanctuaries so they continue inspiring future generations. When you travel to Mumbai make the effort to visit these hidden sights because they could create a spellbinding experience.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Maratha youths gherao minister Sarnaik over Kunbi certificate delay
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Tension gripped the district rest house in Dharashiv on Friday after angry Maratha youths gheraoed Maharashtra's transport minister and Dharashiv district's guardian minister, Pratap Sarnaik, demanding an immediate resolution of issues related to the issuance of Kunbi caste and validity certificates. These certificates pave the way for the Maratha community youths to be recognised as OBCs. The youths, agitated over what they called deliberate delays despite submitting valid documentary evidence, blocked Sarnaik's path outside the rest house, insisting he address their concerns before proceeding. For nearly 10-15 minutes, the protesters stood firm, forcing the minister, who was accompanied by district collector Keerthi Kiran Pujar, to engage in a heated exchange. The youths alleged even after Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil's successful movement, which led to a policy decision allowing eligible Marathas to be issued Kunbi certificates based on documentary proof, the caste validity committees continued to refuse issuing certificates. While Kunbi certificates are being issued to some applicants, the activists said the caste validity certificates — required for availing reservation benefits — were being withheld by the social justice department, led by minister Sanjay Shirsat. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Live Update: The Strategy Uses By Successful Intraday Trader TradeWise Learn More Undo This delay, they claimed, caused students to miss out on educational opportunities and other welfare schemes. Sarnaik, in the presence of the protestors, dialled a call to an official from the caste validity committee and said, "You were given instructions twice earlier, yet nothing has moved. If you are in charge and still not acting as per rules, then you are responsible for the trouble faced by both govt and public." Taking strong note of the grievances, Sarnaik ordered the immediate issuance of validity certificates to eligible applicants who furnished the necessary documents. "Act immediately and ensure due process is followed," he told the officer. Following the confrontation, Sarnaik was seen discussing the issue with the district collector and directing him to ensure appropriate steps are taken for the issuance of caste certificates to the Maratha community youths.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Forgotten heroes, Sikh Gurus' defiance of Mughal persecution in focus in NCERT's new class 8 book
Stories of resistance and resilience, such as the rise of the Marathas , the contribution of women like Tarabai and Ahilyabai Holkar, the defiance of Sikh Gurus in the face of Mughal persecution , and tribal uprisings are in focus in the NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook. The book, "Exploring Society: India and Beyond", released this week, is also the first in the new NCERT curriculum to introduce students to the Delhi Sultanate , Mughals , Marathas and the colonial era. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Product Management others MCA MBA Cybersecurity Management Public Policy healthcare Digital Marketing CXO Degree Leadership Project Management Design Thinking Data Analytics Finance Operations Management Others Healthcare Data Science Data Science PGDM Technology Artificial Intelligence Skills you'll gain: Creating Effective Product Roadmap User Research & Translating it to Product Design Key Metrics via Product Analytics Hand-On Projects Using Cutting Edge Tools Duration: 12 Weeks Indian School of Business ISB Product Management Starts on May 14, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Product Strategy & Competitive Advantage Tactics Product Development Processes & Market Orientations Product Analytics & Data-Driven Decision Making Agile Development, Design Thinking, & Product Leadership Duration: 40 Weeks IIM Kozhikode Professional Certificate in Product Management Starts on Jun 26, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Product Strategy & Roadmapping User-Centric Product Design Agile Product Development Market Analysis & Product Launch Duration: 24 Weeks Indian School of Business Professional Certificate in Product Management Starts on Jun 26, 2024 Get Details Forgotten heroes occupy a significant space in the book with figures like Rani Durgavati, Rani Abakka, and Travancore's Marthanda Varma profiled alongside chapters exploring India's cultural knowledge traditions and its rich skill heritage. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cardiologist Reveals: The Simple Morning Habit for a Flatter Belly After 50! Lulutox Undo At the beginning of the book is a section titled "Note on Some Darker Periods in History", where the NCERT offers context for the inclusion of sensitive and violent events, primarily war and bloodshed. It urges students to understand "the historical origin of cruel violence, abusive misrule or misplaced ambitions of power" dispassionately and states, "No one should be held responsible today for events of the past." Live Events In the new book, the chapter covering Indian history from the 13th to the 17th century - "Reshaping India's Political Map" - spans the rise and fall of the Delhi Sultanate and the resistance to it, the Vijayanagara Empire, the Mughals and the resistance to them, and the rise of the Sikhs. Describing Babur as a "brutal and ruthless conqueror, slaughtering entire populations of cities" and Aurangzeb as a military ruler who destroyed temples and gurdwaras, the NCERT's new textbook points to "many instances of religious intolerance" during the Mughal period. While it notes Akbar's reign as a "blend of brutality and tolerance" for different faiths, it also mentions that "non-Muslims were kept in a minority in the higher echelons of the administration". Akbar is portrayed as having "ordered the massacre of some 30,000 civilians" after the siege of Chittorgarh. The Marathas are depicted not only for their military might under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj but also for their maritime supremacy and governance innovations. The Sikh Gurus' resistance to Mughal oppression is discussed in detail, highlighting their role in confronting injustice and preserving a distinct identity in challenging times. The textbook also delves into colonial-era revolts such as the Sanyasi-Fakir rebellion, the Indigo uprising, and the Great Rebellion of 1857, "offering students a more inclusive picture of struggle beyond the familiar narratives", said a faculty member of the textbook committee of NCERT.
News18
6 days ago
- Politics
- News18
Tides Of Triumph: A Saga Of Maratha Courage And Cultural Pride
Last Updated: The book explores various themes related to the maritime achievements of the Marathas following the establishment of the Maratha Navy by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1659. UNESCO has recently recognised the Maratha Military landscapes of India as a World Heritage site. This prestigious acknowledgment includes twelve majestic forts, with eleven located in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu. PM Narendra Modi expressed his elation on X, stating that every Indian is thrilled with this recognition. He remarked, 'When we speak of the glorious Maratha Empire, we associate it with good governance, military strength, cultural pride, and emphasis on social welfare." PM Modi rightly pointed out that these Maratha forts, from Raigad to Gingee, narrate the saga of Maratha courage and cultural pride, inspiring generations. While a comprehensive account of the Maratha Navy and its exploits is still sparse, what remains hidden in the layers of history is gradually being unveiled. A few scholars have delved into the structure, function, and exploits of the Maratha Navy, with BK Apte being the most prominent among them. Renowned historians like Jadunath Sarkar and Surendranath Sen have discussed the Maratha Navy in their monographs. A nationalistic approach to understanding the career of Maratha Admiral Kanhoji Angre was taken by Malgaonkar. Under Admiral Angre's leadership, the Maratha Navy made European fleets appear insignificant in the Konkan waters, and his exploits are noted in some European works, notably those of GA Ballard and John Bidulph. This book answers the question of why the Maratha Navy did not possess large ships capable of broadside attacks. The maritime forts were crucial for their function like stationary ships armed with artillery. These fortifications served multiple purposes—they safeguarded trading routes, provided bases for naval operations, and acted as deterrents against invasions from sea-based powers. The essay highlights salient features of fort architecture, including elements specifically designed for maritime defence. These features include high walls resistant to cannon fire, strategically placed artillery, intricate systems for storing fresh water, and hidden underwater obstructions to damage enemy ships that ventured too close. Centuries later, twelve Maratha forts have become UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Maritime History Society in Mumbai took the initiative to uncover the inside story of the Maratha Navy. The year 2024 marks the 350th anniversary of a defining moment in Indian history: the coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Swarajya. This event signifies the emergence of the Marathas as a regional power during the era of Mughal imperialism. The legacy of the Maratha Swarajya and its leaders continues to resonate in many aspects of our country's social and cultural life. There could not have been a better occasion to start working on a book that honours the achievements of the Maratha Navy and celebrates its legacy than Navy Day. The Director of the Maritime History Society in Mumbai initiated several rounds of discussions with Professor Dr Amarendra Kumar in the Department of History at Shanti Niketan, leading to the decision to compile essays exploring diverse aspects of the Maratha Navy. Shivaji uniquely realised the significance of the sea for both defence and trade—especially when the Maratha Swarajya was still in its infancy, and the Maratha Navy was being built brick by brick. According to the author, this underscores Shivaji's sharp acumen and visionary genius. The indigenous navy he created continues to be an enduring source of inspiration for the twenty-first-century Indian Navy, as reflected in the Navy's 2022 dedication of its emblem to Shivaji's Royal Octagonal Seal. The Indian Navy's ensign, inspired by the octagonal Royal Seal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, embodies a proud nation's dedication to one of the most significant chapters of its maritime legacy. The legacy of the Maratha Navy is explored in one of the essays in the collection ' Tides of Triumph," which examines various themes related to the maritime achievements of the Marathas following the establishment of the Maratha Navy by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1659. The book, authored by leading scholars, traces the rise and consolidation of the Maratha Navy. The combined deployment of land and sea power is analysed, and attempts are made to demystify the persona and character of the legendary Maratha Naval chief Kanhoji Angre. top videos View all One of the essays draws parallels between Maratha naval strategy and India's post-Independence wars. This approach mirrors the operational success of the Indian Navy's Operations Trident and Python during the Indo-Pak War of 1971. Just as the Marathas effectively utilised diverse vessels, the Indian Navy demonstrated how a strategic blend of capabilities could lead to mission success. To execute the offensives against the Pakistani coast, INS Kiltan and Katchall towed the smaller Vidyut-class missile boats—INS Nipat, Nirghat, and Veer—right up to Karachi for bombardment and accomplished the mission objectives. In conclusion, the book effectively presents various evidence highlighting the glorious naval traditions of the Maratha Swarajya. The contributors of the essays have contextualised and clearly articulated the diverse aspects of the Maratha Navy, which dominated during the mid-seventeenth and mid-eighteenth centuries. The legacy of the Maratha Navy endures. view comments First Published: News opinion Book Review | Tides Of Triumph: A Saga Of Maratha Courage And Cultural Pride Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. 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