💥Join UPSC 2027,2028 Mentorship (August Batch) + XFactor Notes & Microthemes PDF
Talk to Mentor

Civilsdaily

Login

Subject: History

  • [pib] Lothal’s Maritime Heritage Complex

    Why in the News?

    PM recently highlighted Lothal’s importance in India’s maritime history as the site of the world’s first dockyard, now home to the National Maritime Heritage Complex under Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

    About Lothal’s Maritime Heritage Complex:

    Facts about Lothal
    • Dockyard Evidence: Recent IITGn study confirms existence of a dockyard (222 x 37 meters).
    • River Shift: Sabarmati River’s old course closer to Lothal during Harappan period, now 20 km away.
    • Trade Route: Linked Ahmedabad, Lothal, Nal Sarovar, Little Rann, and Dholavira.
    • Satellite Imagery: Revealed ancient channels of Sabarmati River, confirming Lothal’s strategic location.
    • Trade Connections: Traders might have used the Gulf of Khambhat, collecting materials from Ratanpura and transporting them to Mesopotamia.
    Historical Significance
    • Built around: 2200 BC as a major trade center for beads, gems, and ornaments.
      • Lothal means “mound of the dead” in Gujarati similar to Mohenjodaro.
    • Discovered by S.R. Rao, excavated from 1955 to 1960.
    • World’s earliest known dock; connected to the ancient Sabarmati River.
    • Nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014; only port-town of the Indus Valley Civilization.
    Features of the Present Complex
    • Location: Bhal region, Gujarat, India.
    • Objective: Showcase India’s 5,000-year-old maritime history, focusing on the first dockyard at Lothal.
    • Developed by: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
    • Components: Exhibition halls, maritime park, amphitheater, and educational spaces.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelling water into connected reservoirs?

    (a) Dholavira

    (b) Kalibangan

    (c) Rakhigarhi

    (d) Ropar

  • [pib] Janjatiya Gaurav Divas

    Why in the News?

    • Since 2021, November 15th is celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to honor the contributions of tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle.
      • This day commemorates the birth anniversary of the legendary Sri Birsa Munda.

    Who was Birsa Munda?

    • Born on November 15, 1875, in the Chotanagpur region (now Jharkhand), during a period of significant changes for the Munda community.
    • He spent his early years traveling with his parents; received primary education under Jaipal Nag.
    • He was influenced by the Sardari agitation, a peaceful movement against British rule, Birsa emerged as a leader advocating tribal rights.

    Causes of the Rebellion:

    • British policies like the Permanent Settlement Act (1793) disrupted traditional land systems, leading to displacement and exploitation of tribal communities.
    • The Mundas’ khuntkatti land rights system was eroded by jagirdars and thikadars, resulting in land alienation.
    • Increased migration of non-tribals under British rule led to exploitation through high-interest money lending and forced labor.
    • Missionary-led education raised awareness among tribals, creating social divides but also sparking movements for tribal rights.

    Historical Background:

    • Birsa started the Birsait faith to counter Christian missionary conversions among tribals. It became a challenge to British conversion efforts.
      • Members of the Munda and Oraon communities joined the Birsait sect.
      • The Mundas honored him as Dharati Aaba (Father of the Earth).
    • The Ulgulan Movement: Also known as the Munda Rebellion, led by Birsa Munda in 1899-1900.
      • Concentrated in the Munda belt of Khunti, Tamar, Sarwada, and Bandgaon.
      • The goal was to establish Munda Raj (self-rule) and independence, known as Ulgulan or the “Great Tumult.”
      • The rebellion was ultimately suppressed by British forces, leading to Birsa Munda’s capture and death.
    • Birsa Munda’s mobilization left a lasting impact, prompting government reforms like the repeal of the Begar system and enactment of the Tenancy Act (1903).
    • The movement was violently suppressed, and Birsa Munda died in jail on June 9, 1900.

    Significance:

    • Janjatiya Gaurav Divas is significant in preserving the legacy of tribal resistance leaders and advocating for tribal rights.
    • It promotes a more inclusive society that values the contributions of all communities in India’s historical and cultural fabric.

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to the history of India, “Ulgulan” or the Great Tumult is the description of which of the following events?

    (a) The Revolt of 1857

    (b) The Mappila Rebellion of 1921

    (c) The Indigo Revolt of 1859-60

    (d) Birsa Munda’s Revolt of 1899-1900

  • In news: Bidar Fort

    Bidar Fort

    Why in the News?

    • The Karnataka Waqf Board has identified 17 monuments within the historic Bidar Fort as its own property.
      • These include the 16-Khamba Mosque (Sixteen Pillar Mosque) and 14 tombs of Bahmani rulers and their family members, including Ahmed Shah-IV, Allauddin, Hassan Khan, and others.

    About Bidar Fort:

    • It is situated in Bidar City on the northern plateau of Karnataka, India.
    • The fort’s history dates back over 500 years, beginning with the Western Chalukya dynasty.
    • Sultan Ahmed Shah Wali of the Bahmani dynasty made Bidar his capital in 1430 and renovated it into a strong citadel.
    • Architectural Features:
      • Constructed from trap rock with stone and mortar used for walls.
      • Notable for its Islamic and Persian architectural elements, including:
        • Seven main entrances
        • 37 octagonal bastions equipped with metal-shielded cannons
        • Mosques, mahals, and over 30 Islamic monuments
      • The entrance gate features a lofty dome painted in bright colors.

    About the Bahmani Kingdom

    • The Bahmani Kingdom was established in 1347 when Ala-ud-din Hassan Bahman Shan revolted against Muhammad Bin Tughlaq of the Delhi Sultanate.
    • This marked the creation of the first independent Islamic kingdom in South India.
    • The kingdom covered areas in present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.
    • Initially, the capital was set in Ahsanabad (Gulbarga) but was later moved to Bidar.
    • The Bahmani Kingdom had 14 sultans in total, with prominent rulers like Alauddin Bahman Shah, Muhammad Shah I, and Firoz Shah.
    • One of the kingdom’s notable statesmen, Mahmud Gawan, served as the Prime Minister for 23 years, from 1458 to 1481.
      • Under his guidance, the kingdom expanded its territories, including reclaiming Goa from the Vijayanagar Empire.
    • The Bahmani Kingdom began to decline around 1518 when Krishnadeva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire defeated its last ruler, leading to the dissolution of the Bahmani rule in the region.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] With reference to Indian history, which of the following statements is/are correct?​

    1. The Nizamat of Arcot emerged out of Hyderabad State.​

    2. The Mysore Kingdom emerged out of Vijayanangara Empire.​

    3. Rohilkhand Kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani.​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only​

    (b) 2 only​

    (c) 2 and 3 only​

    (d) 3 only ​

  • Jagannath Puri Temple

    Why in the News?

    Odisha’s law minister recently clarified that there was no secret chamber inside the treasury of the Jagannath Temple in Puri.

    About Jagannath Puri Temple

    • The Jagannath Temple is an important Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Sri Krishna in Puri in Odisha.
    • The present temple was rebuilt from the 10th century onwards, on the site of an earlier temple, and begun by Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, the first king of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.
    • The Puri temple is famous for its annual Ratha Yatra, or chariot festival, in which the three principal deities are pulled on huge and elaborately decorated temple cars.

    It’s Architecture:

    • With its sculptural richness and fluidity of the Oriya style of temple architecture, it is one of the most magnificent monuments of India.
    • The huge temple complex covers an area of over 400,000 square feet and is surrounded by a high fortified wall.
    • This 20 feet high wall is known as Meghanada Pacheri.
    • Another wall known as kurma bedha surrounds the main temple.

    The temple has four distinct sectional structures, namely:

    1. Deula, Vimana or Garba griha (Sanctum sanctorum) where the triad deities are lodged on the ratnavedi (Throne of Pearls). In Rekha Deula style;
    2. Mukhashala (Frontal porch);
    3. Nata mandir/Natamandapa, which is also known as the Jagamohan (Audience Hall/Dancing Hall), and
    4. Bhoga Mandapa (Offerings Hall)

    PYQ:

    [2012] The Nagara, the Dravida and the Vesara are the:

    (a) Three main racial groups of the Indian subcontinent

    (b) Three main linguistic divisions into which the languages of India can be classified

    (c) Three main styles of Indian temple architecture

    (d) Three main musical Gharanas prevalent in India

  • First Asian Buddhist Summit

    Why in the News?

    The Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), held the first Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS) in New Delhi.

    About the Asian Buddhist Summit (ABS)

    • ABS is a high-level conference organized to bring together Buddhist leaders, scholars, and practitioners from across Asia.
    • The theme of the first summit was ‘Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia’.
    • It aligns with India’s Act East Policy, aiming to deepen cultural and spiritual ties across Asian nations.
    • Key topics discussed at the summit include:
      • The role of Buddhist art, architecture, and heritage.
      • The dissemination of Buddha Dhamma and its cultural influence across Asia.
      • The significance of holy Buddhist relics and their societal impact.
      • The relevance of Buddhist philosophy and literature in the 21st century.
      • Exploring the relationship between Buddhism and scientific research for health and well-being.

     

    About Buddhism:

    Details
    Origin of Buddhism • Originated in India over 2,600 years ago.
    • Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) around 563 BCE.
    • Born into the royal family of the Sakya clan in Lumbini, near the Indo-Nepal border.
    • At age 29, Gautama renounced a life of luxury and embraced asceticism.
    • Attained Bodhi (enlightenment) after 49 days of meditation under a pipal tree in Bodhgaya, Bihar.
    • Delivered his first sermon in Sarnath, known as Dharma-Chakra-Pravartana.
    • Died at 80 in Kushinagara (Mahaparinirvana) in 483 BCE.
    Tenets of Buddhism • Advocated the Madhyam Marg (Middle Path) between indulgence and asceticism.
    • Emphasized individual responsibility for happiness.
    • Four Noble Truths (ariya-sachchani):
    1. Dukkha: Suffering is inherent.
    2. Samudya: Every suffering has a cause.
    3. Nirodha: Suffering could be extinguished.
    4. Atthanga Magga: Achieved through the Eightfold Path.
    • Eightfold Path (astangika marg): Right view, intention, speech, action, livelihood, mindfulness, effort, concentration.
    • Ultimate goal: Attaining Nirvana (Nibbana).
    • Five Precepts (Panchasil): Prohibitions against violence, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants.
    Major Buddhist Texts • Initially oral teachings, memorized by the Sangha.
    • Written down around 25 BCE in Pali.
    • Three Pitakas:
    1. Vinaya Pitaka: Monastic rules.
    2. Sutta Pitaka: Main teachings, divided into five Nikayas (Digha, Majjhima, Samyutta, Anguttara, Khuddaka).
    3. Abhidamma Pitaka: Philosophical analysis of teachings.
    • Other important texts: Divyavadana, Dipavamsa, Mahavamsa, Milind Panha.
    Role of the Buddhist Councils • Important turning points in early Buddhism, leading to sectarian clashes and the Great Schism.
    • Four Major Councils:
    1. First Council (483 BCE): Presided by Mahakasyapa, aimed to preserve teachings.
    2. Second Council (383 BCE): Addressed monastic discipline.
    3. Third Council (250 BCE): Under Ashoka, focusing on spreading Buddhism.
    4. Fourth Council (72 CE): Led to division into Mahayana and Hinayana.
    Different Schools of Buddhism • Mahayana: “Great Vehicle,” emphasizes Bodhisattva ideal and idol worship; spread to Central and East Asia.
    • Hinayana: “Lesser Vehicle,” focuses on individual salvation and original teachings; Theravada is a major branch.
    • Theravada: Closest to original teachings; dominant in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
    • Vajrayana: “Vehicle of the Thunderbolt,” complex rituals; developed around 900 CE.
    • Zen: Focuses on meditation, developed in China and Japan.
    Spread of Buddhism in Ancient India • Monastic organization through Sangha for spreading teachings.
    • Rapid growth during Buddha’s lifetime.
    • Ashoka’s influence post-Kalinga conquest; adopted Dhamma conquest, sending missions to various regions, including Gandhara, Kashmir, Greece, Sri Lanka, Burma (Myanmar), Egypt, and Thailand.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements:

    1. Sthaviravadins belong to Mahayana Buddhism.

    2. Lokottaravadin sect was an offshoot of Mahasanghika sect of Buddhism.

    3. The deification of Buddha by Mahasanghikas fostered the Mahayana Buddhism.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Who were Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal?

    Who were Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal?

    Why in the News?

    Superstar Thalapathy Vijay launched his new party with speech highlighting his inspirations from Rani Velu Nachiyar and Anjalai Ammal.

    Contributions of Velu Nachiyar (1730-1796)

    • Born in 1730 to King Chellamuthu Sethupathy and Queen Sakandhimuthal of the Ramnad kingdom (now Tamil Nadu).
    • Trained in horse riding, archery, kalaripayattu, and silambam (South Indian martial arts).
    • Educated as a polyglot, fluent in Tamil, Urdu, English, and French, with a strong grasp of military strategy.
    • Married Muthu Vaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar in 1746, supporting him as Queen of Sivagangai.
    • In 1772, Sivagangai was invaded by the British East India Company in alliance with the Nawab of Arcot; her husband was killed in battle.
    • Fled with her daughter Vellachi to Dindigul under the protection of Hyder Ali of Mysore.
    • Formed alliances with Hyder Ali and Gopala Naicker of the Marudu brothers to reclaim her kingdom.
    • Successfully fought against the British and reclaimed Sivagangai in 1780.
    • Ruled for a decade before passing the throne to her daughter in 1790.
    • Known as Tamil Nadu’s ‘Veeramangai’ (Brave Lady) and celebrated as an early Indian queen who resisted British colonialism.

    Significant role played by Anjalai Ammal (1890-1961)

    • Born in 1890 in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, to a weaver family.
    • Married Murugappan in 1908, and both joined the freedom struggle inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles.
    • Became active in the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1921, marking the beginning of her political involvement.
    • Played a significant role in:
      • Neil Statue Satyagraha, protesting a statue of Colonel James Neil.
      • Salt Satyagraha in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942.
    • Served as President of the All India Women’s Congress in Madras in 1931.
    • Arrested multiple times for her activism; gave birth to her youngest son while serving a six-month prison term.
    • Prevented by the British from meeting Gandhi in 1934; met him in disguise, and he called her “South India’s Rani of Jhansi”.
    • First woman elected to the Madras legislature as a Congress representative.
    • Remained politically active until her death in 1961, remembered as a pioneer for women’s rights and freedom.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gandhian phase.

    [2015] Consider the following statements:

    1. The first woman President of the Indian National Congress was Sarojini Naidu.

    2. The first Muslim President of the Indian National Congress was Badruddin Tyabji.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [pib] Four replicas of Konark Wheels at Rashtrapati Bhavan

    konark
    PC: konark.in

    Why in the News?

    Four replicas of the Konark wheels, made of sandstone, have been installed at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre and Amrit Udyan. 

    About Konark Wheels

    Details
    Design The temple is designed in the shape of a huge chariot drawn by 7 horses and features 24 wheels.
    Dimensions of Wheels Each wheel has a diameter of 9 feet 9 inches with 8 wider spokes and 8 thinner spokes.
    Symbolism of Wheels The wheels represent various time-related aspects:
    • 7 horses symbolize the days of the week.
    • 12 pairs of wheels signify 12 months.
    • 24 wheels represent 24 hours in a day.
    • 8 spokes symbolize prahars (three-hour periods).
    Architectural Features • The wheels are intricately carved, showcasing designs of foliage, animals, and figures of women in various poses.
    • Rims of the wheels have decorative carvings.
    Sun Dial Functionality Two of the wheels function as a sundial, accurately indicating time from sunrise to sunset using the shadow cast by the axel.
    Modern Representation
    • Featured in Indian currency, specifically in the old Rs. 20 and new Rs. 10 notes, representing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.
    • Rs. 10 note released by the RBI on January 5, 2018, features the Konark Wheel on its reverse side.

    Its significance

    • The Konark Wheel, serving as an ancient sundial, symbolizes the advanced understanding of timekeeping and astronomy in 13th-century India.
    • Its intricate carvings reflect exceptional craftsmanship and cultural significance, embodying the cycle of life and the worship of Surya, the Sun God.
    • Its depiction on Indian currency highlights its enduring legacy and significance in promoting national identity and tourism in Odisha.

    Back2Basics: Konark Sun Temple

    konark

    • Approximately 64 km from Bhubaneswar.
    • Built in the 13th century (around 1250 CE) during the reign of King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
    • Dedicated to Surya, the Sun God.
    • Exemplifies Kalinga architecture, known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate sculptures.
    • Constructed from Khondalite stone, which is durable and intricately carved.
    • Designed as a chariot with 7 horses and 24 wheels.
    • Structure originally included a sanctum (deul) and a jagamohan (assembly hall) that have largely collapsed but were once adorned with exquisite carvings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples?

    1. Arasavalli

    2. Amarakantak

    3. Omkareshwar

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    Why in the News?

    While five languages were granted classical status earlier this month, Maithili was not considered as the Bihar government had not officially forwarded the proposal, despite ongoing demands for its inclusion.

    Maithili missed out on Classical Status

    About Maithili Language

    • Maithili belongs to the eastern sub-group of the Indo-Aryan branch of languages.
      • It is believed to have evolved from Magadhan Prakrit.
      • The poet Vidyapati (14th century) popularized Maithili, establishing its importance in literature and folk culture.
    • It was added to the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003, making it one of the 22 officially recognized languages of India.
      • It is an optional subject in the UPSC exams, providing an opportunity for candidates to take it as a paper.
      • It was granted second official language status in Jharkhand in 2018.
    • It is spoken primarily in Bihar and Jharkhand in India, with a significant presence in Nepal.
      • According to the 2011 Census, there are around 12 million Maithili speakers in India.
      • It is the second most spoken language in Nepal, especially in the Terai region.
    • Mithilakshar, also known as Tirhuta, is the original script used for writing Maithili.
      • It belongs to the same family as Bangla, Assamese, Odia, Tibetan, and Nepali scripts.
      • The script’s oldest records date back to 950 AD, found in Sahodara stone inscriptions.

    About Eighth Schedule:

    Details
    Purpose Lists the official languages of India as recognized by the Constitution.
    Relevant Articles Part XVII (Articles 343 to 351) of the Constitution outlines provisions for official languages.
    Key Constitutional Provisions • Article 344(1): Mandates the formation of a Commission by the President to recommend steps to promote Hindi after five years of the Constitution’s commencement.
    • Article 351: Promotes the development of Hindi as a medium to represent India’s composite culture.
    Languages in the Eighth Schedule Currently includes 22 languages:
    Initially Included (14 languages): Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Oriya, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.
    Later Additions: Sindhi (21st Amendment, 1967), Konkani, Manipuri, Nepali (71st Amendment, 1992), Bodo, Dogri, Maithili, Santhali (92nd Amendment, 2003).
    Official Language Status Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of India, with English as an additional official language for administrative purposes.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Consider the following languages:

    1. Gujarati
    2. Kannada
    3. Telugu

    Which of the above has/have been declared as ‘Classical Language/Languages’ by the Government?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • 9th National Ayurveda Day

    Why in the News?

    • On the occasion of the 9th Ayurveda Day, Prime Minister will launch several healthcare projects valued at Rs 12,850 crore.
      • The focal theme for Ayurveda day-2024 has been decided as ‘Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health’.

    About Ayurveda:

    Details
    Origins   • Rooted in four Vedas (5000–1000 BCE).
    • References in Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.
    • Fully developed by 1000 BCE with Charaka Samhita and Susruta Samhita.
    Foundational Texts   • Brhattrayi (Three Major Treatises):
    • Caraka Samhita (internal medicine)
    • Susruta Samhita (surgery)
    • Astanga Sangraha and Astanga Hrdaya (Vrddha Vagbhata and Vagbhata, 6th-7th century CE).
    • Takshashila and Nalanda universities attracted foreign students.
    Global Influence • Spread through Buddhism to Tibetan and Chinese medicine.
    • Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans adopted concepts via trade and interactions.
    • 8th century CE saw Nagarjuna study medicinal use of metals.
    Integration of Modern Techniques • 16th century saw inclusion of modern diagnostics and treatment for new diseases.
    Revival in India (19th-20th Cent.) • 1827: First Ayurveda course at Government Sanskrit College, Calcutta.
    • 20th Century: Ayurveda colleges spread under regional patronage.
    • 1970s: Ayurveda revived, with academic research, publications, and global symposia.
    Current Status   • Structured undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral education.
    • Strong network of practitioners and manufacturers.
    • Developed infrastructure for community outreach.
    Global Influence  24 countries recognize Ayurveda legally.
    Collaborative platforms include:
    • SCO Expert Working Group on Traditional Medicine
    • BIMSTEC Taskforce on Traditional Medicine
    • BRICS High-Level Forum on Traditional Medicine.
    • Ayurveda products exported to 100+ countries.
    WHO Standards and Milestones • ICD-11 Integration: WHO included Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani in ICD-11 TM Module 2.
    • WHO set global standards for practice and training.
    • GCTM, Jamnagar (Gujarat): Focuses on Ayurveda research, education, and practice.
    Philosophical Foundations • Historical evidence dates to the first millennium BCE.
    • Knowledge passed from gods to sages and then to human physicians.
    • Central concepts align with Samkhya, Vaisheshika, Buddhism, and Jainism.
    • Emphasis on balance and maintaining natural urges.

    Initiatives and Programs by the Govt.

    • National Ayush Mission (2014): Aimed at promoting the development and growth of Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) in the country, focusing on strengthening educational institutions and enhancing the quality of services.
    • Ayurveda Research Portal (2021): Promotes research in Ayurveda by providing a digital platform for researchers, practitioners, and institutions to access data, funding opportunities, and collaborative initiatives.
    • Ayush Grid (2020): A digital initiative aimed at enhancing the accessibility of Ayush services and information through online platforms, connecting practitioners, patients, and educational institutions.

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

  • [pib] Raigad Fort

    [pib] Raigad Fort

    Why in the News?

    The Raigad Fort is among 12 forts nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status under the title “Maratha Military Landscapes of India.”

    Why Raigad Fort is Nominated for UNESCO World Heritage?

    • Historical and Strategic Importance: Raigad Fort served as the capital of the Maratha Empire under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, symbolizing Maratha resilience and independence.
    • Architectural Excellence: The fort showcases Maratha military architecture, with well-developed structures adapted to the hilly terrain.
    • Role in Maratha Legacy: As a hill fort, Raigad is emblematic of the Marathas’ unique fortification style, designed to withstand invasions and safeguard autonomy.
    • Icon of Maratha Heritage: Known as Durgaraj (King of Forts), Raigad stands as a tribute to Shivaji Maharaj’s leadership and legacy and has become a pilgrimage site for Shivbhakts.
    • Natural Defense and Innovation: The fort’s natural fortifications, steep escarpments, and strategic location atop an isolated hill embody military ingenuity and make it a model of Maratha defense architecture.

    History of Raigad Fort:

    Details
    Location   • Situated in the Sahyadri mountain range in Maharashtra, India.
    • Elevation of approximately 2,700 feet above sea level.
    • Surrounded by natural cliffs and 1,500-foot escarpments.
    Background • Originally known as Rairi.
    • Captured by Shivaji Maharaj in 1653 CE.
    • Crowned Chhatrapati on June 6, 1674 CE.
    • Served as the capital of the Maratha Empire until 1680 CE.
    Significance • Part of the “Maratha Military Landscapes of India” nomination for UNESCO World Heritage status.
    • Referred to as the “Gibraltar of the East” by Grant Duff.
    Architectural Highlights • Includes the Royal Complex with key structures like Ranivasa and Rajsadar.
    • Jagadishwar Mandir dedicated to Lord Shiva.
    • Samadhi (final resting place) of Shivaji Maharaj located nearby.
    Features • Accessible mainly through Naqqarkhana and Palkhi Darwaja.
    • Features well-designed drainage systems and secret chambers.
    Ecology • Surrounded by valleys shaped by the Kal and Gandhari rivers.
    • Supported limited agriculture and had a self-sustained ecosystem.
    Cultural Significance • Known as the Durgaraj (King of Forts), symbolizing Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.
    • Hosts annual celebrations for Shivrajyabhishek and Punyatithi.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010] What was the immediate reason for Ahmad Shah Abdali to invade India and fight the Third Battle of Panipat?

    (a) He wanted to avenge the expulsion by Marathas of his viceroy Timur Shah from Lahore

    (b) The frustrated governor of Jullundhar Adina Beg Khan invited him to invade Punjab

    (c) He wanted to punish Mughal administration for non-payment of the revenues of the Chahar Mahal (Gujarat, Aurangabad, Sialkot & Pasrur)

    (d) He wanted to annex all the fertile plains of Punjab up to the borders of Delhi to his kingdom