Khanderi Underi fort-Kanhoji Angre Island Alibag

Описание: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj BiographyChhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (1630-1680) was a legendary Indian warrior king, the founder of the Maratha Empire, celebrated for his brilliant guerrilla warfare, administrative reforms, and establishment of an independent Maratha kingdom in western India, challenging the dominant Mughal Empire. He was crowned Chhatrapati in 1674 at Raigad Fort, promoting religious tolerance, using Marathi in court, and pioneering a strong navy, leaving a legacy as a symbol of courage, justice, and proto-nationalism in India

Construction: Built in 1679 by Shivaji Maharaj on Khanderi Island, near Alibaug.
Strategic Importance: Designed to counter the Siddis of Murud-Janjira and monitor British ships approaching Mumbai.
Maratha Naval Base: Became a significant base for the famous Maratha admiral, Kanhoji Angre, in 1698.
Island Location: Situated on a small island, about 4-5 km from the mainland villages of Navgaon and Thal.
Landmarks: Contains the ancient Lord Vitthal temple, the tomb of Daud Pir (worshipped by fishermen), and a historic lighthouse.
UNESCO Recognition: Recognized as one of the 12 Maratha forts on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Visiting Khanderi Fort:
Access: Take a boat from Thal village for a round trip to the island.
Nearby Fort: Often visited with its companion fort, Underi Fort, built by the Siddis.
Experience: Offers a glimpse into Maratha maritime history with beautiful sea views and a unique cultural feel.



Military Innovation: He developed the unique "Shiva sutra" or Ganimi kava (guerrilla warfare) tactics, using speed, surprise, and knowledge of terrain to defeat larger armies.
Administrative Reforms: Established a progressive civil rule with a disciplined army and well-structured administration, promoting Marathi and Sanskrit over Persian.
Religious Tolerance: Known for his liberal policies, he welcomed Muslims into his service, protected their mosques, and opposed the Mughal Jizya tax.
Empire Building: Carved out his kingdom from the Bijapur Sultanate, laying the foundation for the vast Maratha Empire.
Strong Navy: Built a powerful navy to protect his coastal territories and trade, establishing naval bases.