Kalinjar Fort - Revision history

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	\| name = Kalinjar Fort		\| name = Kalinjar Fort
	\| partof = [[India]]		\| partof = [[India]]
	\| location = [[Banda ~~District~~, India\|Banda ~~District~~]], [[Uttar Pradesh]], [[India]]		\| location = [[Banda district, India\|Banda district]], [[Uttar Pradesh]], [[India]]
	\| image = E. view of the Fort at Kalinjar. May 1814.jpg		\| image = E. view of the Fort at Kalinjar. May 1814.jpg
	\| image_size = 300px		\| image_size = 300px
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	\| controlled by = [[Archaeological Survey of India]]		\| controlled by = [[Archaeological Survey of India]]
	\| open_to_public = Yes		\| open_to_public = Yes
	\| condition = [[Ruined]] [[~~Citadel~~]]		\| condition = [[Ruined]] [[citadel]]
	\| built = 5th century		\| built = 5th century
	\| used =		\| used =
	\| materials = [[Granite]] [[rock (geology)\|Stones]]		\| materials = [[Granite]] [[rock (geology)\|Stones]]
	\| demolished = 1858		\| demolished = 1858
	\| battles = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] 1023, [[Sher Shah Suri]] 1545, Maratha ~~Bhattshahi~~ 1732, [[East India Company]] 1812 and [[Revolt of 1857]]		\| battles = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] 1023, [[Sher Shah Suri]] 1545, [[Peshwa\|Maratha Peshwa]] 1732, [[East India Company]] 1812 and [[Revolt of 1857]]
	\| events =		\| events =
	\| current_commander =		\| current_commander =
	\| past_commanders = [[Chandela\|Chandel]] [[dynasty]] of [[Rajputs]], [[Solanki (clan)\|~~Solankis~~]] of [[Rewa (princely state)\|Rewa]] [[Peshwa ~~Bhatt Dynasty~~]]		\| past_commanders = [[Guptas\|Gupta Empire]] ,[[Chandela\|Chandel]] [[dynasty]] of [[Rajputs]], [[Solanki (clan)\|Solanki]] of [[Rewa (princely state)\|Rewa]], [[Peshwa\|Maratha Peshwas]]
	\| garrison = [[Maratha Cavalary]] 1731 - 1858 [[United Kingdom\|British]] [[garrison]] 1947		\| garrison = [[Maratha Army\|Maratha Cavalary]] 1731 — 1858 [[United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland\|British]] [[garrison]] 1947
	~~\| occupants = Last known Commander Shimant War of Independence~~
	\|nearest_town= [[Chitrakoot Dham (Karwi)\|Karwi]] }}		\|nearest_town= [[Chitrakoot Dham (Karwi)\|Karwi]] }}
	{{Infobox		{{Infobox
	\| name = Kalinjar Fort Precincts		\| name = Kalinjar Fort Precincts
	\| image = [[File:'Henumaan Ka Darwaaza'.jpg\|100x100px]][[File:Panorama of the Fort, Kalinjar. Temple in foreground with sketch of plan..jpg\|100x100px]][[File:Sixth Gate Laldarwaza at Kalinjar Fort.jpg\|100x100px]]		\| image = [[File:'Henumaan Ka Darwaaza'.jpg\|100x100px]][[File:Panorama of the Fort, Kalinjar. Temple in foreground with sketch of plan..jpg\|100x100px]][[File:Sixth Gate Laldarwaza at Kalinjar Fort.jpg\|100x100px]]
	\| caption = {{hlist\|[[Hanuman]] [[Darwaza]]\|Kalinjar Fort\|[[Laldarwaza]]\|~~[[Bhatts of Kalinjar~~\|Maratha Garrison]]}}}}		\| caption = {{hlist\|[[Hanuman]] [[Darwaza]]\|Kalinjar Fort\|[[Laldarwaza]]\|\|Maratha Garrison}}}}
	'''Kalinjar''' ({{lang-hi\|कालिंजर}}) is a fortress-city ~~in [[Bundelkhand]],~~ in [[Banda ~~District~~, India\|Banda ~~District~~]]<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://banda.nic.in/tourist-place/kalinjar-fort/ \| title=Kalinjar Fort \| District Banda, Government of Uttar Pradesh \| India }}</ref> of [[Uttar Pradesh]], in [[India]]. It was ruled by several dynasties including the [[Gupta Empire\|Guptas]], the [[Pushyabhuti dynasty\|Vardhana Dynasty]], the [[Chandela\|Chandelas]], [[Solanki (clan)\|Solankis]] of [[Rewa (princely state)\|Rewa]], [[Mughal Empire\|Mughal]] and the [[Maratha Empire\|Marathas]].
			'''Kalinjar''' ({{lang-hi\|कालिंजर}}) is a fortress-city in [[Banda district, India\|Banda district]]<ref>{{cite web \| url=https://banda.nic.in/tourist-place/kalinjar-fort/ \| title=Kalinjar Fort \| District Banda, Government of Uttar Pradesh \| India }}</ref> of [[Uttar Pradesh]], in [[India]]. It was ruled by several dynasties including the [[Gupta Empire\|Guptas]], the [[Pushyabhuti dynasty\|Vardhana Dynasty]], the [[Chandela\|Chandelas]], [[Solanki Baghela(clan)\|(Solankis)]] of [[Rewa (princely state)\|Rewa]], [[Mughal Empire\|Mughal]] and the [[Maratha Empire\|Marathas]].

	The fortress has several temples dating back to the [[Gupta Empire\|Gupta]] dynasty of the 3rd–5th centuries. It is strategically located on an isolated rocky [[hill]] at the end of the [[Vindhya Range]], overlooking the plains of [[Bundelkhand]].<ref name="EB1911">{{EB1911 \|wstitle=Kalinjar \|volume=15 \|page=642 \|inline=1}}</ref>		The fortress has several temples dating back to the [[Gupta Empire\|Gupta]] dynasty of the 3rd–5th centuries. It is strategically located on an isolated rocky [[hill]] at the end of the [[Vindhya Range]], overlooking the plains of [[Bundelkhand]].<ref name="EB1911">{{EB1911 \|wstitle=Kalinjar \|volume=15 \|page=642 \|inline=1}}</ref>
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	Kalinjar has also been mentioned in [[Buddhist]] literature, particularly in the travelogues of [[Gautama Buddha\|Buddha]]. The [[Chedi Kingdom\|Chedi]] dynasty ruled here during the time of Gautama Buddha (563–480 BC). Following this, it was absorbed into the [[Maurya Empire]] and came to be known as Vindhya-Atavi.<ref>पाण्डेय, विमल चन्द्र, प्राचीन भारत का इतिहास, मेरठ, १९८३-८४, पृ.६३</ref>		Kalinjar has also been mentioned in [[Buddhist]] literature, particularly in the travelogues of [[Gautama Buddha\|Buddha]]. The [[Chedi Kingdom\|Chedi]] dynasty ruled here during the time of Gautama Buddha (563–480 BC). Following this, it was absorbed into the [[Maurya Empire]] and came to be known as Vindhya-Atavi.<ref>पाण्डेय, विमल चन्द्र, प्राचीन भारत का इतिहास, मेरठ, १९८३-८४, पृ.६३</ref>

	The fort eventually came under the rule of the [[Shunga Empire\|Shunga dynasty]] and the [[Pandu dynasty]]. In the Prayag Prasathi inscription of the [[Allahabad Pillar]] this region is mentioned by the name ''Vindhya Atavi''. The Fort was in the control of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty\|Gurjara Pratiharas]], and remained until the rule of [[Nagabhata II\|Nagabhatta II]]. [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti\|Chandela]] rulers used to be their ''Mandalik'' kings. The mention of Kalinjar is found in almost every text or inscription of that time.<ref name="शोधगंगा">[http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/13854/11/11_chapter%206.pdf पौराणिक एवं ऐतिहासिक ग्रन्थों में वर्णित कालिंजर] {{Webarchive\|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301180215/http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/13854/11/11_chapter%206.pdf\|date=1 मार्च 2017}}। ''कालिंजर-'''षष्टम अध्याय'''''।([[पीडीएफ]]) कु.रमिता- शोध कार्य।शोध पर्यवेक्षक:प्रो.बी.एन.राय।ज.लाल नेहरु महाविद्यालय, बांदा।२१ अगस्त, २००१।</ref>		The fort eventually came under the rule of the [[Shunga Empire\|Shunga dynasty]] and the Pandu dynasty. In the Prayag Prasathi inscription of the [[Allahabad Pillar]] this region is mentioned by the name ''Vindhya Atavi''. The Fort was in the control of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty\|Gurjara Pratiharas]], and remained until the rule of [[Nagabhata II\|Nagabhatta II]]. [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti\|Chandela]] rulers used to be their ''Mandalik'' kings. The mention of Kalinjar is found in almost every text or inscription of that time.<ref name="शोधगंगा">[http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/13854/11/11_chapter%206.pdf पौराणिक एवं ऐतिहासिक ग्रन्थों में वर्णित कालिंजर] {{Webarchive\|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301180215/http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/13854/11/11_chapter%206.pdf\|date=1 मार्च 2017}}। ''कालिंजर-'''षष्टम अध्याय'''''।([[पीडीएफ]]) कु.रमिता- शोध कार्य।शोध पर्यवेक्षक:प्रो.बी.एन.राय।ज.लाल नेहरु महाविद्यालय, बांदा।२१ अगस्त, २००१।</ref>

	=== Medieval period ===		=== Medieval period ===
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	Kalinjar's historical background is replete with numerous battles and invasions. The Hindu princes of different dynasties as well as the Muslim rulers fought hard to conquer it and the fort continued to pass from one ruler to another, but except for the [[Mughals]], no other ruler could reign over it for long.{{Citation needed\|date=April 2021}}		Kalinjar's historical background is replete with numerous battles and invasions. The Hindu princes of different dynasties as well as the Muslim rulers fought hard to conquer it and the fort continued to pass from one ruler to another, but except for the [[Mughals]], no other ruler could reign over it for long.{{Citation needed\|date=April 2021}}

	In 1023 [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] attacked and received a tribute from Kalinjar,<ref>Iqtidar Alam Khan, ''Ganda Chandella'', '''Historical Dictionary of Medieval India''', (Scarecrow Press, 2007), 66.</ref><ref>Raj Kumar, ''History Of The Chamar Dynasty : (From 6th Century A.D. To 12th Century A.D.)'', (Kalpaz Publications, 2008), 127.</ref> [[Mughal emperors\|Mughal emperor]] [[Babur]] became the only commander in history to have captured the fort in 1526 when his forces drove away Raja Hasan Khan ~~Mewattpati~~. It was also the place where [[Sher Shah Suri]] met his death in 1545 when he was killed either in the fort or nearby on the grounds. In 1569 Akbar captured the fort and it was under Mughal rule until its capture by the Marathas. Kalinjar played a prominent part in history down to the time of the [[Revolt of 1857]], when it was held by a small British garrison.<ref name=EB1911/> Both the fort and the town, which stands at the foot of the hill, are of interest to the antiquary on account of the remains of temples, sculptures, inscriptions, and caves.<ref name=EB1911/>		In 1023, [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] attacked and received a tribute from Kalinjar,<ref>Iqtidar Alam Khan, ''Ganda Chandella'', '''Historical Dictionary of Medieval India''', (Scarecrow Press, 2007), 66.</ref><ref>Raj Kumar, ''History Of The Chamar Dynasty : (From 6th Century A.D. To 12th Century A.D.)'', (Kalpaz Publications, 2008), 127.</ref> [[Mughal emperors\|Mughal emperor]] [[Babur]] became the only commander in history to have captured the fort in 1526, when his forces drove away Raja Hasan Khan Mewatpatti. It was also the place where [[Sher Shah Suri]] met his death in 1545, when he was killed either in the fort or nearby on the grounds. In 1569, Akbar captured the fort and it was under Mughal rule until its capture by the Marathas. Kalinjar played a prominent part in history down to the time of the [[Revolt of 1857]], when it was held by a small British garrison.<ref name=EB1911/> Both the fort and the town, which stands at the foot of the hill, are of interest to the antiquary on account of the remains of temples, sculptures, inscriptions, and caves.<ref name=EB1911/>

	{{wide image\|Panoramic view of Rani Mahal Kalinjar fort.jpg\|700px\|Panoramic view of Inside Rani Mahal, Kalinjar fort}}In the early 18th century, the fort was captured by the [[Baji Rao I\|Peshwa Bajirao]] after defeating the [[Mughal Empire\|Mughal]] general ~~Bangesh~~ Khan of Allahabad. In order to stop the Mughals from entering Bundelkhand again, he established a [[Maratha (caste)\|Maratha]] light infantry huzurat of 5000 under the command of [[Sardar Ram Singh Bhatt]], [[Yashwantrao Bhatt]], ~~[[Parashuram~~ Bhau Bundela]], [[Bhaskar Pandit]], and [[Sheshrao Pant Bundela]], all veterans of war and Maratha class one generals. In due course of time, the Marathas conquered the nearby territories and expanded to the [[Bengal]] frontiers. They inflicted a crushing defeat on Awadh ally Nawab of Rampur and Ala Vardi Khan.{{Citation needed\|date=June 2021}}		{{wide image\|Panoramic view of Rani Mahal Kalinjar fort.jpg\|700px\|Panoramic view of Inside Rani Mahal, Kalinjar fort}}In the early 18th century, the fort was captured by the [[Baji Rao I\|Peshwa Bajirao]] after defeating the [[Mughal Empire\|Mughal]] general Bangash Khan of Allahabad. In order to stop the Mughals from entering Bundelkhand again, he established a [[Maratha (caste)\|Maratha]] light infantry huzurat of 5000 under the command of Sardar Ram Singh Bhatt, Yashwantrao Bhatt, Parshuram Bhau Bundela, Bhaskar Pandit, and Sheshrao Pant Bundela, all veterans of war and Maratha class one generals. In due course of time, the Marathas conquered the nearby territories and expanded to the [[Bengal Subah\|Bengal]] frontiers. They inflicted a crushing defeat on Awadh ally Nawab of Rampur and Ala Vardi Khan.{{Citation needed\|date=June 2021}}

	The fort was used to levy chauth to nearby territories like [[Varanasi\|~~Benaras~~]], [[Mirzapur]], [[Pratapgarh Kingdom\|Pratapgarh]], Kunda, and [[Bundela]].		The fort was used to levy chauth to nearby territories like [[Varanasi\|Benares]], [[Mirzapur]], [[Pratapgarh Kingdom\|Pratapgarh]], Kunda, and [[Bundela]].

	=== Colonial period ===		=== Colonial period ===
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	In 1803, the Peshwa was involved in direct skirmishes with the [[East India Company]] in which he was defeated. In the [[Treaty of Surji-Anjangaon]], Peshwa [[Bajirao II]] ceded [[Bundelkhand]] to the East India Company after his defeat in the [[Second Anglo-Maratha War\|Second Anglo-Maratha]] war. The fort came under the management of the East India Company in 1805-06. The Old Bhatt royalty was expatriated and was granted separate [[Sanad (deed)\|sanad]]s of Kirwi, Attra, Chitrakut Mathond, and Khurand.		In 1803, the Peshwa was involved in direct skirmishes with the [[East India Company]] in which he was defeated. In the [[Treaty of Surji-Anjangaon]], Peshwa [[Bajirao II]] ceded [[Bundelkhand]] to the East India Company after his defeat in the [[Second Anglo-Maratha War\|Second Anglo-Maratha]] war. The fort came under the management of the East India Company in 1805-06. The Old Bhatt royalty was expatriated and was granted separate [[Sanad (deed)\|sanad]]s of Kirwi, Attra, Chitrakut Mathond, and Khurand.

	The fort was placed under the pre-Maratha constitution of Bundela - Jhijhotiya Chubes. However, during the first War of Independence in 1857, The Old Bhatta Aristocracy recaptured the fort driving Bundela back to Ajaygarh. In 1858, the British attacked the fort but the people at large resisted and fought a tough battle with Major Hugh Rose. A long drawn siege ensued in which almost 800 British and 3000 Indians were killed. This proved to be the toughest battlefield in Bundelkhand where ~~the British~~ suffered maximum casualties. The ~~British,~~ with the help of the states of Panna and Rewa, captured this fort on 4 May 1858. The Last Bhatta Peshwas surrendered and were sent to Rewa as prisoners. Kalinjar subah was distributed in between Bundela, Rewa Solanki and Chaubes of Rajaula. The fort was decommissioned and its buildings were demolished, to prevent any further maratha garrisoning at Kalinjar, thus ending the legacy of this fort. The total chauth collection was estimated at 40 lakh shahi mohars. The Naukahai campaign of Rewa and Chunar Fort, was launched directly from Kalinjar in which the Sohagpur Amarkantak and Shahdol paragana were attached to Peshwa territories. Almost all the occupants of the fort were moon worshipers and are called Chandravanshi clans of Kshatriya, Brahmanas, Kalchuries and Yadavas.{{Citation needed\|date=June 2021}}		The fort was placed under the pre-Maratha constitution of Bundela - Jhijhotiya Chubes. However, during the first War of Independence in 1857, The Old Bhatta Aristocracy recaptured the fort driving Bundela back to Ajaygarh. In 1858, the British attacked the fort but the people at large resisted and fought a tough battle with Major Hugh Rose. A long drawn siege ensued in which almost 800 British and 3000 Indians were killed. This proved to be the toughest battlefield in Bundelkhand where English suffered maximum casualties. The English with the help of the states of Panna and Rewa captured this fort on 4 May 1858. The Last Bhatta Peshwas surrendered and were sent to Rewa as prisoners. Kalinjar subah was distributed in between Bundela, Rewa Solanki and Chaubes of Rajaula. The fort was decommissioned and its buildings were demolished, to prevent any further maratha garrisoning at Kalinjar, thus ending the legacy of this fort. The total chauth collection was estimated at 40 lakh shahi mohars. The Naukahai campaign of Rewa and Chunar Fort, was launched directly from Kalinjar in which the Sohagpur Amarkantak and Shahdol paragana were attached to Peshwa territories. Almost all the occupants of the fort were moon worshipers and are called Chandravanshi clans of Kshatriya, Brahmanas, Kalchuries and Yadavas.{{Citation needed\|date=June 2021}}

	In 1812, the British troops marched into Bundelkhand, and after a long battle, they were able to annex the fort. The British seizure of Kalinjar proved to be a great watershed, transferring the legacy of the old aristocracy into the hands of the new bureaucracy of officials, who showed their loyalty to British imperialism by damaging the captured fort. The damages caused to the fort can still be seen on its walls and open spaces.{{Citation needed\|date=June 2021}}		In 1812, the British troops marched into Bundelkhand, and after a long battle, they were able to annex the fort. The British seizure of Kalinjar proved to be a great watershed, transferring the legacy of the old aristocracy into the hands of the new bureaucracy of officials, who showed their loyalty to British imperialism by damaging the captured fort. The damages caused to the fort can still be seen on its walls and open spaces.{{Citation needed\|date=June 2021}}
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	</gallery>		</gallery>

	~~{{Wikiquote}}~~

	==See also==		==See also==

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2022-12-12T22:17:37Z

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>Georgie at Leeds Uni Library: /* Etymology */ cleaned up and fixed some spelling and tenses

2021-07-09T14:57:26Z

Etymology: cleaned up and fixed some spelling and tenses

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{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2017}}
{{Use Indian English|date=June 2017}}
{{more citations needed|date=October 2014}}{{Copy edit|date=June 2021}}{{Expand Hindi|date=March 2021}}
{{Infobox military installation
| name = Kalinjar Fort
| partof = [[India]]
| location = [[Banda district, India|Banda District]], [[Uttar Pradesh]], [[India]]
| image = E. view of the Fort at Kalinjar. May 1814.jpg
| image_size = 300px
| caption = A view of Kalinjar Fort
| pushpin_mapsize = 300
| coordinates = {{coord|24.9997|80.4852|type:landmark|display=inline}}
| type = [[Fort]], [[Caves]] & [[Temples]]
| code =
| height = {{convert|1200|ft|m}}
| controlledby = [[Government of Uttar Pradesh]] A portion by [Northern Peshwa Trust]
| open_to_public = Yes
| condition = [[Ruined]] [[Citadel]]
| built = 5th century
| builder = Bhar Shivas, Chandellas and Marathas
| used =
| materials = [[Granite]] [[rock (geology)|Stones]]
| demolished = 1858
| battles = [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] 1023, [[Sher Shah Suri]] 1545, [[ Maratha Bhattshahi ]] 1732, [[East India Company]] 1812 and [[Revolt of 1857]]
| events =
| current_commander =
| past_commanders = [[Chandela|Chandel]] [[dynasty]] of [[Rajputs]], [[Solanki (clan)|Solankis]] of [[Rewa (princely state)|Rewa]] [[Peshwa Bhatt Dynasty]]
| garrison = [[Mfaratha huzurat Cavalary]] 1731 - 1858 [[United Kingdom|British]] [[garrison]] 1947
| occupants = Last known Commander Shimant War of Independence
|nearest_town= [[Chitrakoot Dham (Karwi)|Karwi]] }}
{{Infobox
| name = Kalinjar Fort Precincts
| image = [[File:'Henumaan Ka Darwaaza'.jpg|100x100px]][[File:Panorama of the Fort, Kalinjar. Temple in foreground with sketch of plan..jpg|100x100px]][[File:Sixth Gate Laldarwaza at Kalinjar Fort.jpg|100x100px]]
| caption = {{hlist|[[Hanuman]] [[Darwaza]]|Kalinjar Fort|[[Laldarwaza]]|[[Bhatts of Kalinjar|Maratha Garrison]]}}}}
'''Kalinjar''' ({{lang-hi|कालिंजर}}) is a fortress-city in [[Bundelkhand]], in [[Banda district (India)|Banda District]] of [[Uttar Pradesh]], in central [[India]]. It served several dynasties including the [[Gupta Empire|Guptas]], the [[Pushyabhuti dynasty|Vardhana Dynasty]], the [[Chandela|''Chandelas'']], [[Solanki (clan)|Solankis]] of [[Rewa (princely state)|Rewa]], Mughals and the [[Maratha Empire|Marathas]].

The fortress contains several temples dating back to the [[Gupta Empire|Gupta]] dynasty of the 3rd–5th centuries. It is strategically located on an isolated rocky [[hill]] at the end the [[Vindhya Range]], overlooking the plains of [[Bundelkhand]].<ref name="EB1911">{{EB1911 |wstitle=Kalinjar |volume=15 |page=642 |inline=1}}</ref>

==History==

=== Etymology ===
Kalinjar, is a [[portmanteau]] of two [[Sanskrit]] words, ''Ka al,'' meaning time, and ''jar,'' destruction, thus implying the meaning ''destroyer of time''.

=== Mythological history ===
Kalinjar is mentioned in ancient Hindu mythological texts. Hindu legends say that after the [[Samudra manthan|manthan]], where the Hindu god Lord [[Shiva]] drank a poison which turned his throat blue, he came to Kalinjar and overcame the ''kaal'' i.e. achieved victory over death. This is the reason the Shiva temple at Kalinjar is called ''Neelkanth'' (blue-throated). Since then, the hill has been considered a holy site.

=== Early history ===
Kalinjar has been mentioned in [[Buddhist]] literature, particularly in the travelogues of [[Gautama Buddha|Buddha]]. The [[Chedi Kingdom|Chedi]] dynasty ruled here during the time of Gautama Buddha (563–480 BC). After this it came under the authority of the [[Maurya Empire]] and came to be known as Vindhya-Atavi.<ref>पाण्डेय, विमल चन्द्र, प्राचीन भारत का इतिहास, मेरठ, १९८३-८४, पृ.६३</ref>

The fort eventually came under the rule of the [[Shunga Empire|Shunga dynasty]] and the Pandu dynasty. In the Prayag Prasathi inscription of the [[Allahabad Pillar]] this region is mentioned by the name ''Vindhya Atavi''. The Fort was in the control of the [[Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty|Gurjara Pratiharas]], and remained until the rule of [[Nagabhata II|Nagabhatta II]]. [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Chandela]] rulers used to be their ''Mandalik'' kings. The mention of Kalinjar is found in almost every text or inscription of that time.<ref name="शोधगंगा">[http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/13854/11/11_chapter%206.pdf पौराणिक एवं ऐतिहासिक ग्रन्थों में वर्णित कालिंजर] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301180215/http://shodhganga.inflibnet.ac.in/bitstream/10603/13854/11/11_chapter%206.pdf|date=1 मार्च 2017}}। ''कालिंजर-'''षष्टम अध्याय'''''।([[पीडीएफ]]) कु.रमिता- शोध कार्य।शोध पर्यवेक्षक:प्रो.बी.एन.राय।ज.लाल नेहरु महाविद्यालय, बांदा।२१ अगस्त, २००१।</ref>

=== Medieval period ===
{{Unreferenced section|date=June 2021}}
According to the 16th century [[Persians|Persian]] historian [[Firishta]], the town of Kalinjar was established by one Kedar Raja in the 7th century. [[Rashtrakuta dynasty|Rastrakutas]] later seized the fortress. The fort came to prominence during the [[Chandela]] rule. According to Chandela-era legends, the fort was built by a Chandela ruler.<ref name="ETA_1874">{{cite book |author=Edwin Felix T. Atkinson |title=Statistical, descriptive and historical account of the North-western Provinces of India, ed. by E.T. Atkinson [and others]. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=j50IAAAAQAAJ&pg=PA449 |year=1874 |pages=449–451 }}</ref> The Chandela rulers used the title ''Kalanjaradhipati'' ("Lord of Kalanjara"), which shows the importance they attached to the fort.<ref>{{cite book |author=Finbarr Barry Flood |title=Objects of Translation: Material Culture and Medieval "Hindu-Muslim" Encounter |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=OLNE_li8C10C&pg=PA80 |year=2009 |publisher=Princeton University Press |isbn=978-0-691-12594-7 |pages=80 }}</ref>

Its historical background is replete with numerous battles and invasions. The Hindu princes of different dynasties as well as the Muslim rulers fought hard to conquer it and the fort continued to pass from one ruler to another, but except for the [[Mughals]], no other ruler could reign over it for long.{{Citation needed|date=April 2021}}

In 1023 [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] attacked and received a tribute from Kalinjar,<ref>Iqtidar Alam Khan, ''Ganda Chandella'', '''Historical Dictionary of Medieval India''', (Scarecrow Press, 2007), 66.</ref><ref>Raj Kumar, ''History Of The Chamar Dynasty : (From 6th Century A.D. To 12th Century A.D.)'', (Kalpaz Publications, 2008), 127.</ref> Mughal Emperor [[Babur]] was the only commander in history to have captured the fort in 1526 when driving away Raja Hasan Khan Mewattpati. It was also the place where [[Sher Shah Suri]] met his death in 1545 when he was killed either in the fort or nearby on the grounds. In 1569 Akbar captured the fort and it was under Mughal Rule till the Marathas captured it. Kalinjar played a prominent part in history down to the time of the [[Revolt of 1857]], when it was held by a small British garrison.<ref name=EB1911/> Both the fort and the town, which stands at the foot of the hill, are of interest to the antiquary on account of the remains of temples, sculptures, inscriptions and caves.<ref name=EB1911/>

{{wide image|Panoramic view of Rani Mahal Kalinjar fort.jpg|700px|Panoramic view of Inside Rani Mahal, Kalinjar fort}}In early 17th century, the fort was captured by the [[Baji Rao I|Peshwa Bajirao]] after defeating the [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] general Bangesh Khan of Allahabad. In order to stop the Mughals from entering Bundelkhand again, He established a [[Maratha (caste)|Maratha]] light infantry huzurat of 5000 under the command of Sardar Ram Singh Bhatt, Yashwantrao Bhatt, Parashuram Bhau Bundela, Bhaskar Pandit and Sheshrao Pant Bundela, all veterans of war and maratha class one generals. In due course of time the Marathas conquered the nearby territories and expanded to the Bengal frontiers. They inflicted a crushing defeat on Awadh ally Nawab of Rampur and Ala Vardi Khan.{{Citation needed|date=June 2021}}

The fort was used to levy chauth to nearby territories like [[Varanasi|Benaras]], [[Mirzapur]], [[Pratapgarh Kingdom|Pratapgarh]], Kunda, and [[Bundela]].

=== Colonial period ===
In 1802, the peshwa was involved in direct skirmishes with the [[East India Company]] in which he was defeated. In the treaty of Anjanagaon, Peshwa Bajirao II ceded [[Bundelkhand]] to the East India Company after his defeat in the [[Second Anglo-Maratha War|Second Anglo-Maratha]] war. The fort came under the management of the East India Company in 1805-06. The Old Bhatt royalty was expatriated and was granted separate [[Sanad (deed)|sanad]]s of Kirwi, Attra, Chitrakut Mathond and Khurand.

The fort was placed under the pre-Maratha constitution of Bundela - Jhijhotiya Chubes. However during the first War of Independence in 1857, The Old Bhatta Aristocracy recaptured the fort driving Bundela back to Ajaygarh. In 1858, the English attacked the fort but the people at large resisted and fought a tough battle with Major Hugh Rose. A long drawn siege ensued in which almost 800 British and 3000 Indians were killed. This proved to be the toughest battlefield in Bundelkhand where English suffered maximum casualties. The English with the help of the states of Panna and Rewa captured this fort on 4th May 1858. The Last Bhatta Peshwas surrendered and were sent to Rewa as prisoners. Kalinjar subah was distributed in between Bundela, Rewa Solanki and Chaubes of Rajaula. The fort was decommissioned and its buildings were demolished, to prevent any further maratha garrisoning at Kalinjar, thus ending the legacy of this fort. The total chauth collection was estimated at 40 lakh shahi mohars. The Naukahai campaign of Rewa and Chunar Fort, was launched directly from Kalinjar in which the Sohagpur Amarkantak and Shahdol paragana were attached to Peshwa territories. Almost all the occupants of the fort were moon worshipers and are called Chandravanshi clans of Kshatriya, Brahmanas, Kalchuries and Yadavas.{{Citation needed|date=June 2021}}

In 1812, the British troops marched into Bundelkhand. After a long battle they were able to annex the fort. The British seizure of Kalinjar proved to be a great watershed, transferring the legacy of the old aristocracy into the hands of the new bureaucracy of officials who showed their loyalty to British imperialism by damaging the captured fort. The damages caused to the fort can still be seen on its walls and open spaces.{{Citation needed|date=June 2021}}

== Transport links ==
;Air
The nearest airport is at [[Khajuraho]], {{convert|130|km|abbr=on}} away but has limited connectivity. [[Kanpur Airport]] which is well connected with metropolitan cities of India is {{convert|175|km|abbr=on}} and 4 hours drive from Kalinjar.

; Rail
The nearest railway station is at [[Atarra]] {{convert|36|km|abbr=on}} away, on the Banda-[[Satna]] route, {{convert|57|km|abbr=on}} from Banda Railway Station.
;Road
The Kalinjar fort is linked by road to all the important centres in the region with regular bus services. Some of the major road distances are: [[Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh|Chitrakoot]], {{convert|78|km|abbr=on}}; [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]], {{convert|62|km|abbr=on}}; Khajuraho, {{convert|130|km|abbr=on}}; and [[Allahabad]], {{convert|205|km|abbr=on}}.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
File:Pillared building at one corner of Kalinjar Fort.jpg| Pillared building at one corner of Kalinjar Fort
File:Broken sculpture of Kuvera riding on his vehicle, near temple of Nilkanth.jpg| Kuvera riding on his vehicle, near temple of Nilkanth
File:Architectural details from temple of Nilkanth.jpg| Architectural details from temple of Nilkanth
File:Kurma avatar.jpg| Kurma avatar
File:Sculpture of Varaha avatar.jpg| Varaha avatar
File:Sculpture of Ganesh from temple of Nilkanth.jpg| Sculpture of Ganesh from temple of Nilkanth
File:Neelkanth Mandir 2.jpg | Neelkanth Mandir View from top
File:Kalinjar fort11.jpg|Temple in the Fort
File:Kalinjar fort.jpg|Fort (inside view)
File:Pillar inside Rani Palace, Kalinjar Fort.jpg|Pillar inside Rani Palace, Kalinjar Fort
[[File:Neelkanth Mandir 2.jpg|thumb|]]
</gallery>

{{Wikiquote}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{Forts in India}}
{{Forts in Uttar Pradesh}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Forts in Uttar Pradesh]]
[[Category:Bundelkhand]]
[[Category:Banda district, India]]