Salim Garh Fort: A Forgotten Mughal Legacy
Introduction
Salim Garh Fort is one of the lesser-known but historically significant forts in Delhi. Located near the famous Red Fort, it holds immense historical value, dating back to the Mughal era. Built on an island on the Yamuna River, this fort has witnessed centuries of change and played a crucial role in India’s medieval history
Why Was Salim Garh Fort Built?
Salim Garh Fort was constructed as a strategic military outpost. The primary reason behind its construction was to secure the city of Delhi and provide a strong defense mechanism for the ruling dynasty. It was built to prevent enemy invasions and to serve as a safe refuge in times of war.
Cost of Construction
Although exact historical records do not specify the precise cost of construction, building such a fort in the 16th century would have required significant resources, including labor, stone, and other materials. Given the scale of the fort and its strategic importance, it can be estimated that the cost was substantial for its time.
Total Expenditure and Effort Involved
The construction of Salim Garh Fort required skilled architects, laborers, and military engineers. Since the Mughal Empire was known for its grand architectural projects, it is likely that the expenditure was comparable to other major forts of that era. The effort involved was extensive, considering the need for fortifications, military facilities, and housing for soldiers.
Who Built Salim Garh Fort?
Salim Garh Fort was built in 1546 by Salim Shah Suri, the son of Sher Shah Suri. The Sur dynasty was known for its military strategies and fortifications. Later, during the Mughal rule, Emperor Aurangzeb used the fort as a prison, adding another chapter to its rich history.
Today, the fort stands as a part of India’s glorious past, though it remains overshadowed by the nearby Red Fort. It serves as a reminder of the power struggles, architectural brilliance, and strategic warfare of medieval India.
