Godhbunder Fort in Thane Served as a Popular Site for Equestrian Trade from Persia!

Ghodbunder Fort, situated in Ghodbunder Village, Thane, Maharashtra, India, south of the Ulhas River. It was constructed by the Portuguese. The fort was later occupied by the Marathas and subsequently used as the East India Company's district headquarters during that time. Its name, Ghodbunder, originates from the Portuguese trade of horses (ghode) with Arabs at this location (bunder). It is one of the lesser-known forts in Mumbai. 

Horses were imported from Persia via ships. It took at least four months to complete one round of voyages from Persia to India. The horses were later kept in this fort and allotted to the nobles and soldiers accordingly. The best, which were healthy and robust, were allotted to the nobles; the rest, which were comparatively unfit, were given to the soldiers for war purposes. 

The History of the Fort

Nestled within the scenic Western Ghats, Ghodbunder Fort is a historically significant monument dating back to the 13th century. Due to its strategic location, it formerly served as a critical military installation for the Portuguese. Presently, the fort attracts history enthusiasts and nature lovers, drawn by its architectural heritage and picturesque surroundings. Offering panoramic views, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds of the city. Ghodbunder Fort is a recommended destination in Maharashtra, offering a blend of historical exploration and natural beauty.

 The Portuguese hit Thane in 1530 and saw the hill's potential right away. They started building up the fort, calling it 'Cacabe de Tanna', by 1550. Due to its strategic location, the Marathas wanted to invade the fort, but the Portuguese, with their strong defences and guns, held them off for a long time. Even Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj couldn't take it in 1672. The fort we see now, with its big walls, was finished in 1730. There is also an old church. But the Marathas didn't give up this easily. In 1737, Chimaji Appa led a smart attack, and they finally captured the reins of the fort from the Portuguese. This was a big win. Shahu Maharaj made it even stronger by adding a tower.

Then, the British came in 1818 and made it their headquarters. They ran things for the East India Company from there, with a district collector in charge.

Restoration and Conservation

For the longest time, the fort was in a state of disrepair. However, in 2014, the Indian government initiated a restoration project to restore the fort and enhance its surroundings. The Archaeological Survey of India was given the opportunity and entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing this project.

The project, initiated by the municipal corporation of Mira Bhayendar, represents a significant shift in the local government's approach to conservation and preserving our history. It aims to not only restore the physical structure of the fort but also to consider the site’s community values. The scope of work was developed later to turn the surrounding open space into a landscaped recreational area for the nearby village community.

The objectives of the open space were for the conservation of the fort and for the open space to reflect the overall heritage significance of the site. To regenerate the community connections of the villagers with the fort and provide a space for enhanced public use.

The Architecture of Godhbunder Fort

The fort was constructed on a high hill using stone cut from the mountain itself. The steep walls, made from the same stone, presented a formidable challenge to enemies. Known as ‘Giri Durg’ in the vernacular Marathi language, the fort’s fortification wall is not intact in many places. The northern side of the wall is still evident, but there are very few signs of the southern side.

This makes it difficult to determine the entrances to the fort during that time. Based on the archaeological remains and historical evidence, the fort was used as a residence for soldiers, as indicated by the many room divisions. The fact that Chimnaji Appa stayed in the fort during the Vasai Fort campaign suggests that it also served as a granary.