Bhavangad

Bhavangad Fort, located near Tural village on the Mumbai-Goa Highway in Sangameshwar taluka of Ratnagiri district, is one of the lesser-known but historically significant forts of Konkan. Just about 10 km from Sangameshwar, the fort can be reached via Kadwai route up to Shirke Wadi. Shirke Wadi village, situated on the slopes of the fort, has been home to families with the surname Shirke since the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. From here, a trekking path leads up to the fort, offering a scenic climb surrounded by lush greenery.

Before entering Bhavangad, visitors come across three ancient rock-cut water cisterns on the eastern side, known as Sakhartake, Rajanmukh Take, and Palan Take. Two of these cisterns still have perennial water, making them a vital resource for travelers. The main entrance of the fort once had a magnificent arched gateway facing east, but today only remnants remain as the arch has collapsed over time. Inside, the fort covers a relatively small area of about one and a half to two acres.

The most prominent structure on Bhavangad Fort is the temple of Goddess Bhavani. This temple, believed by some historians to have been constructed during the reign of Shivaji Maharaj, has undergone several restorations in recent decades. Opposite to the Bhavani idol lies a Shankar Pindi (Shivlinga), both housed under a common tiled roof. The temple’s old carved pillars, reused in the current structure, display its heritage value. A Tulsi Vrindavan stands in front of the temple, adding to the spiritual ambiance. A small cannon, about three feet in length, coated with vermillion, is placed inside the temple premises. Similar cannons can be seen at Rasalgad, Mahimangad, and other forts of Konkan.

On the opposite side of the entrance, a water tank called Devtake is carved into rock, with a small idol of Mhaskoba beside it. These features highlight the fort’s functional and religious importance in earlier times.

Historically, it is difficult to ascertain whether Bhavangad Fort existed before Shivaji Maharaj or was developed during his reign. However, many scholars believe that in 1661, Shivaji Maharaj ordered its repairs and constructed the Bhavani temple. Even today, in January, the annual festival of Goddess Bhavani is celebrated with devotion, attracting villagers and devotees from nearby regions.

Bhavangad Fort may not be as massive as other forts in Maharashtra, but it holds immense cultural, spiritual, and historical value. Nestled amidst the Sahyadri ranges and Konkan coastline, it is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, trekkers, and devotees alike