The region of Jammu is famous for a rich cultural and built heritage in the form of forts, temples, palaces and the rulers of different areas constructed sarais of which from time to time. As per the tradition all the 22 Dynasties / principalities of the region constructed forts at their respective capitals. The known accounts or literary sources of the region clearly indicate that all the twenty two states came into existence after 8th century A.D. However from the historical point of view, we do not have any authentic account or evidences about the most of the forts of the region.
Table of Contents
1. BASHOLI FORT/ PALACE COMPLEX
2. MANKOT
3. JASROTA
4. LAKHANPUR STATE
5. BHADU FORT
6. JASMERGARH
Objectives and Themes
This work aims to document and analyze the historical, architectural, and strategic significance of the built heritage in the Kathua District, specifically focusing on the surviving and ruined forts that once protected the regional principalities. It explores how these structures reflect the socio-political landscape of the Jammu region and their role in historical conflicts.
- Historical development and evolution of fortification in the Jammu region.
- Architectural characteristics and design influences, including Hindu and Mughal elements.
- The influence of local traditions, folk lore, and Vedic literature on the origin of these forts.
- Strategic and defensive roles of forts like Basholi, Mankot, and Jasrota during the Middle Ages.
- The impact of regional political transitions and foreign invasions on the preservation of these sites.
Excerpt from the Book
1. BASHOLI FORT/ PALACE COMPLEX
Basohli state is located at 32° 30’latitude and 75° 51’ longitudes on the right bank of river Ravi. The construction of Billawaria Rajas at Basohli, started by Raja Bhupat Pal who transferred his capital from Balaur to Basohli in 1630, were superior in grandeur and rich in ornamentation. But their magnificent palaces, so conspicuous among all the buildings of Basohli and still form the most prominent landmark in the whole surrounding country, are utterly in ruins. It is a spacious structure which has recently decayed at a very rapid pace. Practically all the wood work has been removed. In consequence of this all the roofs have collapsed and have brought down great many of walls along with them.
There are three strong places in Basohli, which are all situated towards the north-east end of the town, viz., an old fort now used as a treasury, the palace, and the fort of Devi Kila, built on the site of an old Hindu temple.
The old fort, which is situated close to the town, is perched on the top of a limestone cone, which rises to a height of about 75 ft. from the surrounding plain; it is a small masonry building, about 60 ft. square, with a bastion at each corner and a dry well in the middle of the enclosure. The walls are cracked and rotten, and it has no armament, being used only as a treasury.
Chapter Summary
1. BASHOLI FORT/ PALACE COMPLEX: This chapter details the historical grandeur and current ruined state of the Basholi palace, highlighting its architectural blend and significance as a prominent landmark.
2. MANKOT: An analysis of the group of four forts forming the Mankot fortress, their strategic placement, and their role during the conflict between Sikander Suri and the Mughal Empire.
3. JASROTA: This section explores the foundation myths of Jasrota and the defensive layout of its fort, emphasizing the historical influence of the Akbarnama records.
4. LAKHANPUR STATE: Discusses the creation of Lakhanpur as an independent state following the division of Jasrota and the subsequent historical records regarding its rulers.
5. BHADU FORT: Briefly covers the origins of the Bhadu state, founded by the Bhadwal dynasty, and its etymological connection to the term "Paharu".
6. JASMERGARH: Describes the structure and conversion of Jasmergarh, a fort built by Raja Lal Dev, which served various purposes including that of a prison.
Keywords
Kathua District, Built Heritage, Forts, Jammu Region, Basholi, Mankot, Jasrota, Lakhanpur, Jasmergarh, Mughal Architecture, Strategic Fortification, Historical Ruins, Vedic Literature, Rajas, Defensive Structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this work?
The work focuses on the historical and architectural analysis of significant forts and palace complexes located within the Kathua District of Jammu.
Which key principalities are discussed?
The text examines the forts and political histories of Basholi, Mankot, Jasrota, Lakhanpur, Bhadu, and Jasmergarh.
What is the research goal of this publication?
The goal is to catalog these sites and understand their development, strategic necessity, and current state of preservation within the context of regional history.
What research methods were utilized?
The author employs a combination of historical analysis, review of local traditions and Vansavalis, and cross-referencing with literary sources like the Akbarnama and Vedic texts.
What does the main body cover?
The main body systematically details the location, foundation, architectural features, and historical significance of each individual fort complex.
Which keywords define this study?
The study is characterized by terms such as Built Heritage, Forts, Jammu Region, and specific place names like Basholi and Jasrota.
What specific architectural style is associated with the Basholi complex?
The Basholi palace is described as a unique blend of traditional Hindu and Mughal architectural styles, featuring domes, murals, and advanced heating and cooling systems.
How does the author describe the strategic importance of the Mankot fort group?
The author notes that these forts were planned primarily for strategic defense, allowing the area to act as an asylum for rulers, despite lacking long-term economic sustainability.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Dr. Arjun Singh (Autor:in), 2014, Fort cum Palces. Built Heritage of Kathua District, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/283437
