Bahmani fort featured in Mann Ki Baat: What do you know about this historical monument?

Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for mentioning the Bahmani fort in Kalaburagi during Mann Ki Baat, archaeologists and researchers in north Karnataka have urged the PM to take steps for the restoration and conservation of the 600-year-old monument.

Archaeologist Rehman Patel, who has worked extensively on Bahmani monuments, said, “Instead of mere acknowledgement, concrete steps to restore and preserve the fort will truly honour the Prime Minister’s words and help showcase these remarkable monuments to the world.”

Researchers Mohammed Ayazuddin Patel and Mohammed Ismail said that the 14th century Bahmani fort is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which has failed in the upkeep of the monument.

However, they said, simply praising the fort on a national platform will not serve any purpose. Both the Bahmani fort and the Jama Masjid, located within the fort, have been in a state of ‘utter neglect for decades’.

The fort houses the second largest mosque in Asia, renowned for its unique architectural features. Despite their historical and cultural significance, the Bahmani fort and the Jama Masjid have been largely ignored by the Archaeology Department for years.

During the rainy season, water leaks from the ceiling of Jama Masjid, which is a matter of concern as it will damage the structure and its artwork. If authorities fail to take up repair and maintenance work immediately, the structural integrity of this architectural marvel may deteriorate further, they stated.

The fort houses the world’s longest cannon (Bara Gazi Toph) that measures 29 feet in length and has a circumference of 7.6 feet. This cannon can be a big draw for history buffs and tourists in general, but is not highlighted, they claimed.