An architectural review of Tanhaji

The courage and gallantry of the Marathas, as portrayed in Tanhaji, were flawlessly portrayed and showcased in the architecture and districts of Maharashtra during that period. The film’s universe included locations such as the Sandhan Valley, Sinhagad Fort, and Raigad Fort, all created by a remarkable team of VFX artists. 

The Maratha warrior Tanaji’s story needs to be remembered and celebrated because of his commendable bravery and sacrifice that significantly impacted Indian history. Tanaji Malusare, a Sardar in the army of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, played a crucial role in the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670, which was instrumental in the resurgence of Shivaji’s military campaign. Before this battle, Shivaji Maharaj had suffered a few setbacks, losing 23 forts to the Mughals in the 1660s. However, with the victory at Sinhagad, Shivaji Maharaj was able to launch a series of offensives to reconquer his lost territory, ultimately leading to the establishment of the Maratha Empire in 1674. 

When Shivaji Maharaj heard about Tanaji’s death, he said, “gad aala pan sinha gela” (the fort is captured, but the lion is gone). Shivaji Maharaj was renamed Kondhana Sinhagad in his honour.

Architecture in Shivaji Maharaj’s Era | Tanhaji Review

The architecture during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj blended various styles, including the Mughal and Maratha styles. The Deccan Sultanates, Indo-Islamic, and Hindu styles influenced the Maratha architectural style. The use of local materials such as laterite stone and lime mortar was prevalent in Maratha architecture. Shivaji Maharaj commissioned the construction of many forts and palaces, such as the Raigad Fort, Sindhudurg Fort, and Rajwada Palace. These structures were strategically built on hilltops, making them difficult to conquer. 

The forts were equipped with multiple layers of fortification, secret escape routes, and water storage facilities. The palaces were built using intricate carvings and embellishments, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the era. The architectural legacy of Shivaji Maharaj’s era has left a significant mark on Maharashtra’s landscape and continues to attract tourists worldwide.

Apart from forts and palaces, Shivaji Maharaj also commissioned the construction of various temples and public buildings. The famous Kashi Vishveshwar Temple in Nashik, still visited by devotees, was built during his reign. The Maratha style of architecture was also evident in the construction of Wadas (residential houses) and Dharamshalas (rest houses), which were built for travellers and pilgrims.

One of the unique features of Maratha architecture was the use of “chhatris,” which are small dome-shaped pavilions placed atop a pillar or platform. Chhatris provided shade and shelter in public spaces like marketplaces and village squares. They were also used as decorative elements in palace architecture, adding to the grandeur and opulence of the structures.

The architecture of Shivaji Maharaj’s era reflects the military and cultural significance of the Maratha Empire. The structures built during this time served as symbols of power and contributed to the region’s social and economic development. Today, these structures are reminders of the Maratha Empire’s glory and are an essential part of India’s rich architectural heritage.

Public Infrastructure in Shivaji Maharaj’s Era

Shivaji Maharaj is known for his vision and efforts in improving public infrastructure during his reign. He recognised the importance of good public infrastructure in the growth and prosperity of his kingdom. To this end, he commissioned the construction of various public works, such as roads, water supply systems, and marketplaces.

One of the significant achievements of Shivaji Maharaj was the construction of a vast network of roads connecting different parts of his kingdom. The roads were built using laterite stone and connected major cities, forts, and trading centres. These roads facilitated the movement of goods and people and helped the kingdom’s administration.

Another area where Shivaji Maharaj made significant contributions was the water supply area. He recognised the importance of water in agriculture and daily life and therefore commissioned the construction of several water-harvesting structures such as lakes, dams, and canals. These structures not only helped in irrigation but also in providing drinking water to the people.

Shivaji Maharaj also encouraged the growth of trade and commerce by constructing marketplaces or “bazaars” in various parts of his kingdom. These marketplaces provided a platform for traders and merchants to conduct business and facilitated the growth of the local economy.

Apart from these, Shivaji Maharaj also built hospitals and rest houses for the benefit of his subjects. These public works not only improved the living standards of the people but also contributed to the kingdom’s overall development.

Shivaji Maharaj’s reign saw significant improvements in public infrastructure, which helped in the growth and prosperity of his kingdom. His contributions to roads, water supply, marketplaces, and public health continue to be remembered and celebrated.

Sinhagad Fort

The Sinhagad Fort, located on a hilltop about 30 kilometres southwest of Pune in Maharashtra, India, is an example of military architecture from the Maratha Empire. The fort’s architecture is a fine blend of natural and man-made features, with its strategic location and well-executed fortifications making it a difficult fort to conquer.

The fort’s entrance, the Kalyan Darwaza, is a massive stone structure with a pointed arch and a large wooden door. It is flanked by two bastions, which serve as watchtowers to keep an eye on any approaching enemy. The fortifications were built using stone and lime mortar and strengthened with iron spikes on the outer walls.

Inside the fort are several structures, including residential quarters, a granary, a temple, and a water tank. The residential quarters were built to accommodate soldiers and their families, consisting of several rooms around a central courtyard. The granary was built to store food supplies and could hold enough grains to feed the entire garrison for several months.

The temple inside the fort is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple has simple yet elegant architecture, with a large open courtyard and a small sanctum. The temple’s walls are adorned with carvings and sculptures depicting various Hindu deities.

The fort also has several water tanks built to provide a reliable water source for the barracks. These tanks were built using stone and lime mortar and were designed to store rainwater.

One of the unique features of the Sinhagad Fort’s architecture is the strategic placement of its structures. The residential quarters, granary, and water tank were all located on the fort’s eastern side, facing away from the enemy. This placement was intended to keep these structures safe from any attack from the enemy.

Overall, the Sinhagad Fort’s architecture is a testament to the Maratha Empire’s engineering prowess and military strategies. Its location, strategic planning, and well-executed fortifications made it one of the most important forts of its time and continue to attract visitors from all over the world who marvel at its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

In addition to these features, the Sinhagad Fort has a few unique architectural features worth mentioning. One such feature is the “Narayan Darwaza,” a small doorway at the base of the fort’s southern wall. This doorway is said to have been used by Tanaji Malusare, a Maratha warrior who played a significant role in the fort’s capture during the Battle of Sinhagad in 1670.

Another interesting feature of the fort is its natural surroundings, which are integrated seamlessly into its architecture. The fort is situated on a hilltop surrounded by lush green forests, which add to the fort’s beauty and provide natural cover for the barracks.

The fort’s architecture has undergone several changes over the years, with various rulers making additions and alterations to its original structure. However, the fort’s basic layout and features have remained largely unchanged, making it an important Maharashtra cultural and historical landmark.

Raigad Fort | Tanhaji Review

Raigad Fort, located in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India, was built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the 17th century. It served as the capital of the Maratha Empire for several years. The fort’s architecture is a testament to the Maratha style of fortification and reflects Shivaji Maharaj’s military acumen.

The fort is situated at an elevation of 820 meters above sea level and covers an area of around 60,000 square meters. The fort’s architecture includes a series of massive gateways, ramparts, and bastions. The fort’s main entrance, the Maha Darwaza, is a massive structure with intricate carvings flanked by two towers.

Inside the fort are several structures, including the Raj Bhavan (residence of the king), the Takmak Tok (execution point), and the Jagdishwar Temple. The Raj Bhavan, which served as the king’s residence, was built on a raised platform and had multiple chambers for various purposes, such as administration, meetings, and living quarters.

The fort’s architecture includes an extensive water supply system comprising several tanks and reservoirs. The tanks were built using stone and lime mortar and could store millions of water. Its strategic location and well-planned fortifications made it impregnable and played a significant role in the Maratha Empire’s military campaigns.

Today, Raigad Fort is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world. The fort’s architecture and its historical significance serve as a reminder of the Maratha Empire’s glory and are a testament to the skill and vision of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Another notable feature of the Raigad Fort’s architecture is the “Hirakani Buruj,” a bastion named after a brave woman named Hirakani who lived during Shivaji Maharaj’s reign. According to the legend, Hirakani was stranded on the fort’s ramparts during a power outage and managed to climb down the cliff using a rope made of her saree to reach her infant child waiting at the bottom. The Hirakani Buruj, which stands at the spot where she climbed down, is a tribute to her bravery.

The fort’s architecture also includes a unique system of underground tunnels, which served as a means of escape during war or siege. These tunnels are believed to have linked the different structures within the fort and provided a safe passage for the king and his men.

In addition to its military architecture, the Raigad Fort also reflects the Maratha architectural style in its temples and other religious structures. The Jagdishwar Temple, located within the fort’s premises, is a fine example of this style, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning its walls.

The Raigad Fort’s architecture is a testament to the Maratha Empire’s engineering prowess and military strategies. The fort’s location, strategic planning, and well-executed fortifications made it one of the most important forts of its time and continue attracting visitors worldwide who marvel at its architectural grandeur and historical significance.

References List

1. Bose, M. (2019) Original memorial of Tanaji Malusare discovered, Deccan Herald. DH News Service. Available at: https://www.deccanherald.com/national/original-memorial-tanaja-718810.html (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
2. Architectural Marvel – Raigad (2019) Adventures & tourism articles. Available at: https://www.smallstepsadventures.com/blog/architectural-marvel-raigad/ (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
3. Om Astrology (no date) Raigad Fort, Om Astrology. Available at: https://www.omastrology.com/indian-monuments/raigad-fort/ (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
4. Shivaji Maharaj (2023) Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shivaji (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
5. Sinhagad Fort (no date) IndiaNetzone.com. Available at: https://www.indianetzone.com/65/sinhagad_fort.htm (Accessed: April 16, 2023).

Image List

1. Tanhaji (no date). T-Series. Available at: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/3/3f/Tanaji_film_poster.jpg (Accessed: April 22, 2023). 
2. Dhurandhar, M.V. (no date). Available at: https://www.picuki.com/media/1878399288880865779 (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
3. Amit (2012) Subedar Tanaji Malusare Memorial. Pune. Available at: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bb/Subedar_Tanaji_Malusare_Memorial.jpg (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
4. Pune Darwaza (no date) Tumblr. Pune. Available at: https://64.media.tumblr.com/557b7c3901b82f30569b9852f24b13ae/ff212a348aceec3b-b4/s500x750/6a073ac02d5ad43c740a434c13b01c7017747845.jpg (Accessed: April 22, 2023). 
5. Mitkar, A. (2006) Sinhagad Fort. Pune. Available at: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f5/Sinhagad.jpg (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
6. Aerial View of Raigad (no date) Raigad Ropeway. Available at: https://raigadropeway.com/images/raigad_top.jpg (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
7. Ruins of Raigad Fort (no date). Available at: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ca/be/70/cabe70380836cde35db4f9715f5da8c6.jpg (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
8. Shivaji Maharaj Samadhi (no date) Tumblr. Available at: https://64.media.tumblr.com/ca343ff1b7de251b50f4dd0911a3eaf0/tumblr_ozam2iIiqh1ru322to1_r1_1280.jpg (Accessed: April 16, 2023).