HISTORY – Uparkot Fort

History of Uparkot Fort

The Maurya Empire: A Strategic Citadel Emerges

The saga of Uparkot Fort begins in 319 BC during the illustrious reign of Chandragupta Maurya. Strategically perched at the foothills of Girnar hill, the fort served as a sentinel, a symbol of the Mauryan Empire’s military prowess. Its formidable walls and strategic positioning marked it as a key defensive stronghold in the region.

Gupta Period: A Legacy Continues

Through the Gupta period, Uparkot Fort retained its importance, standing witness to the cultural and political evolution of the Indian subcontinent. The architectural marvels within its walls reflected the artistic finesse of the Gupta era, creating a fortress that blended strength with aesthetic grandeur.

Maitraka Era: A Shifting Landscape

As the Maitraka dynasty rose to prominence, the capital of the Saurashtra region shifted from Junagadh to Vallabhi. This transition marked a period of change for Uparkot Fort, as its central role diminished, and the town surrounding it adapted to the new political dynamics.

Chudasamas' Arrival: A Chapter of Rediscovery

In 875 CE, the Chudasamas entered the stage of Junagadh’s history. The legend unfolds with Graharipu, a visionary 10th-century Chudasama king, who embarked on a mission to reclaim the old citadel from the encroaching jungle. The foundations of the fort, as we see them today, were laid during this period, shaping Uparkot into a formidable bastion.

Legend of Rediscovery: Mystique in Stone

The folklore surrounding Uparkot Fort’s rediscovery adds an air of mystique. A woodcutter’s accidental discovery, guided by fate through the dense forest, unraveled stone walls and a gate. The encounter with a contemplative holy man unveiled the name “Juna,” giving birth to the legend. The fort’s clearing revealed a history lost in time, prompting its renaming as “Junagadh.

Navaghana's Reign: A Capital Transferred

The historical puzzle takes another turn with the reign of Navaghana, a subsequent Chudasama ruler. If the legend holds true, Navaghana might have rediscovered the fort after Graharipu’s reign, leading to the transfer of the Chudasama capital from Vamansthali to Junagadh. The fort, now reborn, became a symbolic seat of power and cultural richness.

Journey Through Centuries: Echoes of the Past

Uparkot Fort invites you to step into the echoes of centuries past. From its strategic foundations under Chandragupta Maurya to the rediscovery and revitalization during the Chudasama era, each era has left an indelible mark on the fort’s stones. Join us on a journey through time and witness the layers of history embedded in Uparkot Fort.

FLAG OF JUNGAGADH

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