Pune360 | Shivneri Fort | Fort, Jijabai, Shivaji, His, Great

Poona, India

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Pune

Forts

Shivneri Fort

The Shivneri fort, has probably made the most significant contribution in the history of Maharashtra and Swaraj. It served as the birthplace for Shivaji Maharaj, the great Maratha warrior king. History records mention Shahaji Bhonsale, a general at the court of Adil Shah of Bijapur worrying about the safety of his pregnant wife Jijabai. Shivneri was chosen as the place where she could give birth safely.

The historical fort, about 100 kms away from Pune, was a difficult one to climb and quite safe from enemies because of the steep rocks on the sides and fortification. Jijabai gave birth to a son, Shivaji named after the goddess Devi Shivai whose temple was located in the precincts. Shivaji spent his childhood here and acquired all the skills and training which he put to good use later in his conquest for Swaraj or self-rule.

Today Shivneri fort is also known to be a trekker’s favourite. Besides being arduous to climb, it offers some beautiful views around. The center of the fort has a water pond called as ‘Badami Talav’. Statues of Jijabai and Shivaji are to the south of this pond. Dongarmatha, Kaman Take and Kadeloot Tok are other places to see on this fort. Nane ghat is located close by which gives a great view of the Konkan region and its natural scenery. Jivdhan, another fort famous for trekking is near by.