Ghodbunder Fort

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Context

• The ongoing conservation and restoration work at the historic Ghodbunder Fort has led to the fascinating discovery of a hidden chamber-like structure beneath the inner ground layers.

Ghodbunder Fort

• Ghodbunder Fort, situated in Ghodbunder Village, Thane, Maharashtra, holds significant historical importance due to its strategic location and rich past.

Portuguese Origins:

• Built by the Portuguese in the early 16th century, the fort served as a trading post and stronghold for the Portuguese traders.
• The name "Ghodbunder" derives from the Portuguese term for trading horses with the Arabs, reflecting its historical significance as a trading port.
• Fortification efforts began in 1550, with continuous attempts by the Marathas to capture the fort, known as 'Cacabe de Tanna' by the Portuguese.

Maratha Rule:

• Despite several attacks, including a notable one by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1672, the Portuguese successfully defended the fort until 1737.
• The Maratha Empire, led by military commander Chimaji Appa, besieged and captured the fort from the Portuguese in 1737, under the reign of Shahu I.

British Occupation:

• In 1818, following the British takeover of India, Ghodbunder Fort became the headquarters of the district administration for the East India Company.
• A district collector was stationed in Thane, marking a shift in the fort's role under British rule.

Current Status and Renovation Plans:

• Despite lying in ruins, the Government of India initiated plans for the fort's renovation in 2014.
• Proposed renovation includes beautification and landscaping of approximately 4 acres of surrounding land.
• The fort is currently under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), signifying its status as a protected historical site.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Located in which state, Ghodbunder Village holds historical importance due to the presence of Ghodbunder Fort, built by the Portuguese? a) Rajasthan b) Maharashtra c) Gujarat d) Uttar Pradesh Answer: b) Maharashtra

SOURCE: freepressjournal