Chapter 7: Historical Forts and Monuments in Jharkhand

Image source Wikipedia Palamu Fort

Chapter 7: Historical Forts and Monuments in Jharkhand 

7.1 Introduction

Forts and monuments are not just relics of the past; they are symbols of history, heritage, and architectural brilliance. They tell stories of conquests, rulers, and civilizations that have left an indelible mark on the land. Among the many historical structures in India, Palamau Fort and Jagannathpur Fort stand as significant testaments to the region's rich cultural and historical past. This chapter explores these two forts, shedding light on their history, architecture, and significance.

7.2 Palamau Fort

7.2.1 Location and Historical Background

Palamau Fort is located in the Latehar district of Jharkhand, India. It stands as one of the most important medieval forts in eastern India. The fort is believed to have been constructed by the Chero dynasty, which ruled over the region in the 16th and 17th centuries. Raja Medini Rai, one of the most prominent rulers of the Chero dynasty, played a crucial role in expanding and fortifying the fort.

Palamau Fort witnessed several battles, including conflicts with the Mughal Empire and the British East India Company. The fort came under Mughal control during the reign of Emperor Akbar when his general, Raja Man Singh, launched a military campaign against the Cheros. Later, during British rule, the fort lost its strategic importance and fell into ruins.

7.2.2 Architecture and Design

The Palamau Fort complex consists of two forts: the old fort and the new fort. Both are built using local stone and exhibit a blend of Mughal and regional architectural styles.

• Old Fort: This structure is the older of the two and is largely in ruins. It consists of multiple bastions, secret tunnels, and defensive walls that suggest its significance as a military stronghold.
• New Fort: Constructed later, the new fort displays more refined architecture, including arched gateways, domes, and large courtyards. The massive walls, some reaching over 20 feet in height, highlight the fort’s defensive purpose.

The fort also has several water reservoirs and granaries, which indicate the preparedness of its rulers for prolonged sieges.

7.2.3 Significance

Palamau Fort holds great historical significance as a testament to the power and resilience of the Chero dynasty. Today, it serves as a tourist attraction and an important archaeological site. Efforts are being made to preserve and restore the fort to maintain its historical value for future generations.

7.3 Jagannathpur Fort

7.3.1 Location and Historical Background

Jagannathpur Fort is situated in Ranchi, Jharkhand, near the famous Jagannath Temple. The fort is closely associated with the rulers of the Nagvanshi dynasty, who established it as a center of governance and military operations.

The Nagvanshi kings, who ruled the Chotanagpur plateau for centuries, built the fort in the 17th century. It played a crucial role in regional conflicts and served as a strategic defense post against invaders. Over time, with the decline of the dynasty, the fort lost its prominence and is now mostly in ruins.

7.3.2 Architecture and Design

Jagannathpur Fort, though not as massive as some other historical forts, exhibits remarkable craftsmanship and structural integrity. The key architectural features of the fort include:

• High defensive walls that once provided protection against enemy invasions.
• A central palace area, which served as the residence of the ruling family.
• Underground chambers, possibly used for storage or as escape routes during sieges.
• Ornate gateways, showcasing intricate carvings and inscriptions.

Despite its current dilapidated state, remnants of the fort still reflect its former grandeur and strategic importance.

7.3.3 Significance

Jagannathpur Fort remains a significant heritage site, attracting history enthusiasts and researchers interested in the region's past. It serves as a reminder of the political and cultural influence of the Nagvanshi rulers. Nearby, the Jagannath Temple, built in a similar time frame, adds to the historical and spiritual importance of the site.

7.4: Navratangarh Fort

Navratangarh Fort is a historic palace and fort in the Gumla district of Jharkhand, India. It was the capital of the Nagvanshi dynasty during the late medieval period. 

Features

• The fort was built between 1636 and 1639 by King Durjan Shah. 
• It was a five-story palace with a water-gate and moat. 
• The fort included a court, treasury, prison, and underground dungeon. 
• The fort also included a temple complex, including the Jagannath Temple, Rani Lukai, and Kamal Sahi Palace. 
• The fort was built of brick and stone. 

Location

• The fort is located in the Sisai block of Gumla district. 
• It is about 15 km from the tehsil headquarter of Sisai. 
• It is about 45 km from the district headquarter Gumla. 
• It is about 75 km west of the state capital Ranchi. 

Significance

• The fort was declared a national heritage site in 2009. 
• It is a popular destination for history buffs and those seeking a peaceful, historic retreat. 
• Some say it is a nice place to visit and learn about history. 

7.5 Ratu Fort

Ratu Fort, also known as Ratu Palace, is a historic palace and tourist destination in Ranchi, Jharkhand. It was designed after Buckingham Palace and is home to well-maintained temples. 

Features 

• The palace has 103 rooms and manicured gardens.
• It was designed by Maharaja Udai Pratap Shah Deo between 1899 and 1901.
• The palace is home to well-maintained temples.
• The palace hosts a traditional Durga Puja.
• The palace has a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot.
• The palace is free to visit and doesn't require advance tickets.

History

• The palace belongs to the 2,000 year old Nagvanshi dynasty. 
• The dynasty's first king was Phani Mukut Roy, who was crowned in 83 AD. 
• The dynasty's emblem still has a nag (cobra) insignia. 
• The dynasty shifted its seat from Palkot to Ratu in 1870. 

Other attractions 

• The palace's main entrance has two old English cannons, a sundial, an attractive fountain, and a garden.
• The palace is located near a temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath.

7.6. Badam Fort

Badam Fort, located in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, India, is a historical fort built in 1642 AD by King Hemant Singh, the sixth ruler of the Karanpura Raj. Notable features include its main gate called "Singh Darwaza," a two-story structure with rooms on each floor, and its strategic position on the highest point of Badmahi (River Haraho). 

Key points about Badam Fort:

Builder: King Hemant Singh of Karanpura Raj

Construction year: 1642 AD

Main gate: "Singh Darwaza"

Location: Hazaribagh, Jharkhand 

7. Conclusion

Palamau Fort and Jagannathpur Fort are crucial historical monuments that reflect the power dynamics, architectural ingenuity, and resilience of the rulers of Jharkhand. While Palamau Fort stands as a symbol of military strength and strategic planning, Jagannathpur Fort represents the governance and cultural aspects of the Nagvanshi dynasty. Preserving these sites is essential to maintaining the historical and cultural identity of the region. Tourists, historians, and the government must work together to ensure their conservation for future generations.