Credit: Sanjay Nagaonkar
History
Dhar Fort is an ancient marvel of architecture in the region of Mandu that has witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties and empires. Each one has left its mark on the fort, enriching the architecture and culture of this fort. Dhar Fort, a significant medieval town, holds great historical significance and once was the capital of the Malwa kingdom.
Dhar Fort was constructed by Raja Bhoj, who was the most illustrious of the Parmars. He shifted his capital from Ujjain to Dhar in the 11th century. During his reign, he founded a Sanskrit university known as Bhoja Shala, which later turned into a great center for higher learning in the region.
In the 14th century, the fort came under Mughal control when Alauddin Khilji sent his general to attack the Parmar dynasty. Ainul Mulk Multani captured the fort and completed the work of fortification. In 1732 AD century, the favor was again turned, and the fort came under the control of the Pawar dynasty, which used it as a royal place.
During the Maratha struggle, Raghunath Rao’s wife Anandi Bai took shelter in the fort, where she gave birth to Peshwa Baji Rao ||. Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Shah Jahan, also took refuge in the fort during the war with Aurangzeb. In 1857, during the revolt, Indian freedom fighters captured the Dhar fort for the freedom struggle and kept the possessions for four months.
The Architecture of Dhar Fort
A blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Afghan styles, the Dhar Fort architecture is built in a rectangular shape using black, red, and solid stones. The height of fortification is 30 feet high, and its entrance is from the west. Inside the fort, you will see several structures that hold great historical significance.
There are several baolis inside the fort that are used for both drinking and bathing purposes.
The Sheesh Mahal was constructed with the help of Jahangir, the Mughal emperor. It’s a palace that has intricate glasswork. A musk melon-shaped Khadbooja mahal is a historical structure that was built in the 16th century.
The fort’s rich history and unique blend of architectural styles make it a fascinating and awe-inspiring place to explore. So, the next time you’re in the region, make sure to add Dhar Fort to your itinerary and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
A fort is a great place for avid history enthusiasts who want to explore the history of the region. There are many structures inside the fort that gives you rich information about the past. You must add this place to your itinerary if you are visiting Mandu.
Best time to Visit
The best time to visit Dhar Fort is during the monsoon and winter months.
How to Reach Dhar Fort
Road: Dhar is well connected by roads, and you can easily reach there by bus, taxi, or your own vehicle. The fort is located in the heart of the town and is easily accessible by road.
Train: The nearest major railway station is Indore Junction, which is well-connected with all major cities in India. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Dhar. The distance between Indore and Dhar is around 60 kilometers.
Air: The nearest airport to Dhar is the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is around 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Dhar.