Siddhagad, which literally means “Valour Fort is in Sahayadri ranges of Maharashtra.”
Back in the day, this fort was strategically built to keep an eye on the trade routes from Malvan and Achara ports to Ajara market. The fort was constructed by the Savant tribe, but the British also had their eyes on it. In fact, in April-May 1818, a British colonel by the name of Henry Imlach (1760-1830) attempted to capture the fort. But, the Savant tribe put up a solid defense, and ol’ Henry had to retreat with his tail between his legs.
However, he wasn’t deterred, and he came back with reinforcements. This time, he succeeded in capturing the fort. But, today, there’s no sign of the fort’s former glory. As you enter the fort, you’ll see a vast level covered in laterite (Jambha), which the locals call “Kaap” or “Sada.” There’s a small settlement on this level called Siddhagadwadi, and from there, you can see the Kasal River and the surrounding areas.
The fort is spread over 25 acres, but it’s less explored, which means its natural beauty is still intact. And, one of the highlights of this fort is its waterfall, which makes it a popular spot for tourists and trekkers.
The fort is in the Murbad area in Malshej, and it stands at a towering height of 3,232 feet above MSL. To reach the fort, you have to start from the base village of Narivali, and it’s quite a climb. But, trust me, it’s worth it. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try to climb the central top of the fort, which is both exciting and tough.
But, if you’re not up for the climb, you can always visit the tomb of a freedom fighter and martyr, Bhai Kotwal, located at the base in the south of the fort. And, if you’re lucky enough to visit during the rainy season in September, you’ll be treated to a beautiful mixture of wild flowers.
So, there you have it, folks, a little fort with a big name and a lot of history. !
Vithal Laxman Kotwal (alias Bhai) was a social reformer and revolutionary from Neral, Maharashtra, India. He laid down his life in the freedom struggle of the country. He was killed in an encounter with the British police officer DSP R. Hall while he was underground with his team in the jungle of Sidhagadh on 2 January 1943.While underground he formed group of underground mercenaries called “Kotwal Dasta”, a parallel government in the Karjat taluka of Raigad district. They were about 50 in numbers including farmers and voluntary school teachers and his cousin brothers Pentanna and Dattoba Halde. They decided to cut down the electric pylons supplying electricity to Mumbai city. From September 1942 through November 1942 they felled 11 pylons, paralyzing the industries and railways.
To counter the menace police announced cash award of rupees 2500 leading to the arrest of Bhai Kotwal. Also a special officer DSP R. Hall and Officer Stafford were called to counter Bhai Kotwal.
When the Krantikari Kotwal Dasta was hiding in the remote jungle of Sidhgadh in Murbad Taluka, he sent a letter for help which fell into the hands of one of the landlords of the area, who turned the letter and the messenger over to Officer Hall. Krantikari says its indian soldier On 2 January 1943 early morning when the Azad Dasta was preparing to shift to another safe place and was waiting for the help to come, R. Hall and Stafford attacked the Dasta members. First to fall was the young Hiraji Patil, son of deputy leader of Azad Dasta Gomaji Patil. Hiraji died on the spot. Bhai Kotwal got injured in the thigh and could not move. Hall killed him point blank.
He was one of the many lesser known freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the freedom of the country. For his brave fight and sacrifice he is now proudly called “Veer Bhai Kotwal”, meaning warrior.
recommended nearby places
Bhorgiri Fort
Bhorgiri Fort is in Satpura ranges in Maharashtra. This fort in Maharashtra is one of the less popular ones, but…
