Daulatabad Fort

Daulatabad Fort

Daulatabad Fort is a historical fort just 13 km from Aurangabad city. Many kings have ruled this fort, and its uniqueness lies in the fact that it was never conquered by force, but won by treachery. It is believed to have been built by Bhillama Raja, the Yadava king of Daulatabad, and renamed Devagiri in 1187.

The architecture of this fort is very unique. It is designed in such a way that it cannot be breached by an elephant. If an enemy managed to breach the first wall, they would face a 40-foot moat filled with crocodiles. Soldiers hidden in the fort's towers would then shoot poisoned arrows at anyone who got past the moat. This made the fort almost impossible to conquer.

In 1294, Alauddin Khilji captured the fort from Raja Ramachandra using aggression and treachery. The fort was so attractive that Muhammad Tughlaq moved his capital from Delhi to Daulatabad. However, many women, children, and elderly people died on the way, and eventually, the capital was moved back to Delhi due to a lack of water in Daulatabad. The Bahmanis, Mughals, and Nizams also ruled the fort at long time.

Inside the fort, there is a big tank that provided water during sieges. On Capitol Hill, there is a palace called Baradari, which has grand halls for entertainment, dances, and music concerts. The palace offers beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.

When visiting the fort, it is recommended to take a guide to learn interesting stories and make the difficult climb easier. Exploring Daulatabad Fort offers a glimpse into its fascinating history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Q: What is the historical significance of Daulatabad Fort, and who were its notable rulers?
A: Daulatabad Fort, located just 13 km from Aurangabad in Maharashtra, holds immense historical significance. Originally known as Devagiri, it was built by King Bhaillamraja and later renamed by Alauddin Khilji. The fort has been ruled by various kings, and its unique architecture and defensive strategies have made it an intriguing historical landmark.

Q: What are the distinctive architectural features of Daulatabad Fort that make it impregnable?
A: Daulatabad Fort boasts unique architectural features designed to withstand sieges. It includes strong doors, multiple levels, and elephants carved from strong and impenetrable materials. The fort's defensive structures also include a forty-foot trench, watery crocodile-filled areas, and a complex maze that can confuse and trap invaders.

Q: Can you provide insights into the captivating history and rulers associated with Daulatabad Fort?
A: The fort's history is rich, with King Bhaillamraja building it in 1187 and Alauddin Khilji capturing it in 1294 through cunning and aggression. The fort later witnessed the rule of Bahamani, Mughal, and Nizam. Malik Ambar, a former slave, rose to power and declared himself king, leaving a lasting imprint on the fort's history.

Q: What are the challenges faced by invaders while attempting to conquer Daulatabad Fort?
A: Daulatabad Fort poses significant challenges for invaders, with its complex maze, slippery roads, toxic fumes, and other strategic traps. The fort's defensive mechanisms were so effective that it was said to be impervious to direct military force, forcing invaders to resort to treacherous tactics for success.

Q: How can visitors make the most of their trip to Daulatabad Fort, and what are the notable features within the fort premises?
A: Visitors to Daulatabad Fort can enhance their experience by taking guidance to uncover extraordinary stories about the fort. Notable features include a large tank, historical guns, a Medha Toupe with a remarkable range, Mahal and Baradari on Capitol Hill, and the 12-door Mahal that served as a hub for entertainment during its time. While the climb may be challenging, the historical narratives make it a worthwhile endeavor for enthusiasts.