by
(ISBN:CCRT/CP-XXX ~ Pub Year: 2002 ~ Pages:N/A ~ Binding: Paperback ~ Publisher: Centre for Cultural Resources and Training)
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Madhya Pradesh with Bhopal as capital has been divided into 12 divisions for administrative purposes. It has the Vindhya and Satpura range of mountains which were ideal for the construction of impregnable forts like Gwalior, Asirgarh, Kalinjar, Mandu, etc. The fortification walls were provided additional strength by the sedimentary rock beds on the top of which these forts were built.
Another aspect of protection was the dense forest cover at the lower level of these forts. Moreover, the forts, like Mandu, Dhar, Gwalior and Asirgarh are situated close to the Narmada and Chambal rivers, which were always flooded during the monsoons and water runs throughout the year making it difficult for the enemies to cross.
The earliest fort built in Madhya Pradesh dates back to Chalcolithic period. For instance, excavations at Eran have brought to light evidences of mud ramparts. Most of the forts in Madhya Pradesh are mountain forts of Giridurga for example, the fort of Gwalior, Narwar, Kalinjar and Asirgarh stand on a flatopped hill.
The decline of Harshavardhana’s dynasty in the 7th century A D in turn led to rise of Rajputs in the northern India, prominent among them were Gurjara-Pratiharas of Kanauj, the Chandellas of Jejakabhukti, the Kalachuris of Dahala-Mandala and the Paramaras of Malwa. Mihir Bhoja I of Gurjara-Pratiharas extended his empire from Uttar Pradesh to major portion of Rajasthan and from Saurashtra to Bundelkhand region in the north east. He had many forts under his control, namely, Gwalior Fort, Narwar Forts, etc.
Yashovarman of Chandellas occupied Kalinjar fort and established his supremacy in the Bundelkhand region in 11th century A D. He not only subjugated Gurjara-Pratiharas of Bundelkhand region but also Paramaras of Malwa. Another important fort under the Chandellas was the Ajaigarh Fort.
The Paramaras of Malwa ruled for a period of nearly 500 years with their capital at Dhar. Finally under Akbar’s rule Malwa became a part of Mughal empire. In 17th century AD. Malwa was occupied by the Marathas to be succeeded by Scindia’s in mid 18th century
A D.
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