Study of Architectural Features and Stability of Ancient Military Defence Type Island Fort of Medhakot in Konkan Coast of India

Abstract

The Medhakot or Murud Janjira is a Water Fort (Jal Durg) and it is categorized under Sea Island Fort of India. It was constructed primarily by Raja Ram Rao Patil, Chief Kolis of Rajapuri Village in 16^th Century. It was known as Medhakot Fort in coastal region of Koliwada. Later it was captured by Sidis [1] who had been occupied it until the independence of India in 1947. The fort exhibits ancient Indian engineering in selection of site of strategic importance, perfection in fortification and architectural design of marine fort successfully. The intact fort is based on Rocky Island of Deccan Basalt. It was mainly utilized for keeping gun and cannons in ample quantity and stored armours by the ruling state. The Study reveals that the castle and residential city was developed in the SouthEastern part, where peoples inhibited with high security. The aerial extent of Fort has 22 Acres and completed in 22 years span of time with continuous construction. Since it has been strong and intact structure. The Janjira Fort remained unconquered by invaders/ attackers of Portuguese, British, and Maratha rulers. The study based on satellite imageries indicates that due to poor maintenance and care the important heritage and tourist place and inner old buildings get ruined. The repair, renovation work is needed to conserve this unique historical sea island fort of India.