Image Source: Manjunath Doddamani Gajendragad
About Savadatti Fort
The Savadatti Fort, also known as Saundatti Fort, is a remarkable 18th-century military structure located in the western part of Savadatti town, Belagavi district, Karnataka. Perched on a small rocky hill and surrounded by thorny vegetation, the fort is a blend of architectural strength and historical depth. Today, it stands as a restored monument, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s turbulent past and rich cultural heritage.
Location and Naming
Savadatti town, historically known as Sughandavarti—meaning “fragrant city”—is situated about 83 kilometers from Belagavi. The fort occupies a commanding position on rising ground, making it a strategic stronghold in earlier times. Its placement amid exposed rocks and a dense prickly pear forest provided natural defenses, complementing the man-made fortifications.
History
The construction of Savadatti Fort is attributed to the Desai rulers of Navalgund. Historical records differ slightly:
Some accounts state that it was built in 1734 by Naralgund Desai, who received Savadatti as a gift from the Nawab of Savanur in 1730.
Other sources suggest it was constructed between 1743 and 1751 by Jayappa Desai of the Navalgund-Sirasangi Sansthan.
Long before the fort was built, Savadatti had been a seat of power. From the 9th to 13th centuries, the town was ruled by the Ratta dynasty, who were prominent feudatories of the Rashtrakutas and Chalukyas. The fort as it stands today reflects the later phase of Savadatti’s strategic importance during the Desai rule.
Architecture
The Savadatti Fort is unique in its irregular nine-sided polygonal shape, built to adapt to the contours of the rocky hill. Its defensive features include:
Fort Walls: Constructed with large hewn stones, the walls extend up to 120 feet in length and rise between 24 to 60 feet in height, giving the fort an imposing look.
Main Gateway: The east-facing gate is the primary entrance, reached via a steep approach road and a stairway of about 30 steps leading to an inner gate. The entrance is further protected by two smaller posterns (sally ports).
Bastions and Moat: The fort is strengthened by eight bastions, placed at intervals for defense, and is encircled by a protective moat.
Temples Inside: Within the fort walls stands a new Hanuman temple, a symbol of faith that continues to attract devotees. A beacon light also stands inside, a reminder of its strategic function in the past.
The Smaller Inner Fort
An intriguing aspect of Savadatti Fort is the presence of a smaller square-shaped fort within the main structure. This inner fort mirrors the outer one in miniature, featuring corner bastions and a gateway reached by steps. At its center lies the historic Kadasiddheshwara Temple, a fine example of artistry and devotion.
The temple’s eaves display over 200 ornamental carvings, mainly in geometric designs, some of which are still painted.
A large pond with high parapet walls is also located within this inner fort, historically serving as a dependable source of clean water.
Present Status
The fort has undergone restoration efforts, ensuring its accessibility to the public. Though parts of it remain weathered by time, its stone walls, bastions, and temples still narrate stories of resilience and power. For visitors, the fort offers not only historical intrigue but also sweeping views of the Savadatti landscape.