Gingee Fort or Senji Fort (also known as Chenji, Chanchi, Jinji or Senchi ) in Tamil Nadu, India is one of the surviving forts in Tamil Nadu, India. It lies in Villupuram District, 160 kilometres (99 mi) from the state capital, Chennai, and is close to the Union Territory of Puducherry. The site is so fortified that Shivaji, the Maratha king, ranked it as the “most impregnable fortress in India”, and it was called the “Troy of the East” by the British. The nearest town with a railway station is Tindivanam and the nearest airport is Chennai (Madras), located 150 kilometres (93 mi) away.
Originally built by Ananta Kon of the Konar dynasty around 1190 AD and later fortified by Krishna Konar, it was later modified in the 13th century to elevate it to the status of an unbreachable citadel to protect the small town of saenji. It was also the headquarters domination in northern Tamil Nadu. The fort was built as a strategic place of fending off any invading armies. As per one account, the fort was further fortified during the 15–16th century. The fort was won for Swarajya by Subedar Harji Rajemahadik for the Marathas under the leadership of Shivaji in 1677 AD, Bijapur sultans, the Moghuls, Carnatic Nawabs, French and the British in 1761. The fort is closely associated with Singh, who unsuccessfully revolted against the Nawab of Arcot and eventually lost his life in a battle.Gingee Fort Hill view from road
The Gingee Fort complex is on three hillocks: Krishnagiri named after Krishna Kon to the north, Rajagiri or Anandagiri named after Ananda kon to the west and Chakilidurg to the southeast. The three hills together constitute a fort complex, each having a separate and self-contained citadel. The fort walls are 13 km (8.1 mi) and the three hills are connected by walls enclosing an area of 11 square kilometres (4.2 sq mi). It was built at a height of 800 feet (240 m) and protected by an 80 feet (24 m) wide moat. The complex has a seven-storeyed Kalyana Mahal (marriage hall), granaries, prison cells, and a temple dedicated to its presiding goddess called Chenjiamman. The fortifications contain a sacred pond known as Aanaikulam. On the top of the hillock, there are minor fortifications. The fort, in modern times, is maintained and administered by the Archaeological Survey of India. The fort is one of the prominent tourist destinations in Villupuram district.
History of Senji Fort or Gingee Fort | செஞ்சி கோட்டை – India Travel Videos
Introduction
Perched majestically amidst rocky terrain, Senji Fort (also known as Gingee Fort) is a magnificent architectural wonder located in Tamil Nadu, India. Situated about 160 km from Chennai, this fort is one of the most impressive and historically significant fortifications in southern India. Due to its strategic location and impenetrable construction, it earned the nickname “Troy of the East” from the British.
Geographical Significance
Senji Fort is built on a cluster of hills, offering natural protection and making it a formidable military stronghold. The fortification spans three hillocks—Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg, each of which is fortified individually with ramparts and bastions. These three separate hill forts are connected by thick walls, enclosing an area of about 7 square kilometers.
Historical Background
The origins of Senji Fort can be traced back to the early medieval period. The Chola dynasty initially built a small fort on the hills during the 9th century. However, it was significantly expanded and fortified during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 13th century.
Senji Fort has passed through the hands of several powerful empires and rulers, including the Cholas, Vijayanagara Kings, Nayakas, Marathas, Mughals, French, and British, each contributing to the fort’s history and architecture.
Key Periods in Senji Fort’s History
- Vijayanagara Empire (13th-16th Century)
The fort’s golden period began under the Vijayanagara rulers, who strengthened its defenses and established it as a significant military outpost. The fortification, coupled with natural terrain, made it an almost impenetrable fort. It was during this period that many of the bastions, gates, and granaries were constructed. The Vijayanagara Empire used the fort to safeguard its territories in southern India. - Nayakas of Senji (16th-17th Century)
After the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire, Senji Fort came under the control of the Nayakas. During their reign, the fort grew in prominence as a regional power center. The Nayakas fortified the fort further and established several inner courtyards, temples, and watchtowers. Their most significant contribution was the construction of the famous Kalyana Mahal, an ornate seven-storey palace that served as a royal residence. - The Maratha Period (17th Century)
In 1677, Senji Fort was captured by the Maratha ruler Shivaji, who saw its strategic importance in expanding his influence in southern India. Shivaji stationed a strong garrison here, and it remained under Maratha control for nearly a decade. - Mughal Occupation (Late 17th Century)
In 1698, the fort fell to the Mughals under Emperor Aurangzeb’s general Zulfiqar Khan. Despite the Marathas’ valiant defense, the fort eventually succumbed to the Mughal siege after prolonged warfare. Under the Mughals, the fort was administered as part of their southern territories. - Colonial Era (18th-19th Century)
During the 18th century, Senji Fort was coveted by both the French and the British. It changed hands multiple times during the Carnatic Wars, which were fought between the British and French colonial powers over control of South India. Eventually, the fort was captured by the British in 1761, marking the end of its military significance.
Architectural Grandeur
- The Three Hills
The most distinguishing feature of Senji Fort is its division across three hills—Rajagiri, Krishnagiri, and Chandrayandurg. Rajagiri, the largest, was the seat of power, housing the king’s palace and royal quarters. Krishnagiri served as a military base with its fortified bastions and watchtowers, while Chandrayandurg was primarily used for storing ammunition and supplies. - Kalyana Mahal
The Kalyana Mahal, or the Marriage Hall, is one of the fort’s most stunning architectural features. This seven-storey tower, adorned with arches and intricate carvings, was designed in a unique Indo-Islamic style. It was used as a royal palace, and its tall pyramidal shape offers a striking contrast against the surrounding rocky terrain. - Granaries and Water Systems
Senji Fort was built to sustain long sieges, with large granaries for food storage and complex water systems, including reservoirs and hidden water channels, ensuring a steady water supply. These features made the fort self-sufficient for months during enemy blockades. - Defensive Features
The fort’s defenses were formidable, with massive stone walls, deep moats, and strategically placed bastions. The walls were built using granite stones that were sourced locally, providing strength and durability. The use of natural terrain, steep slopes, and dense forests surrounding the fort further enhanced its defense.
Decline and Present-Day Importance
By the mid-19th century, with the establishment of British rule in India, Senji Fort lost its military relevance. It eventually fell into disrepair, although its architectural remains still reflect the grandeur of its past. Today, the fort is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is a popular tourist destination.
Cultural and Historical Legacy
Senji Fort remains a symbol of South Indian resilience and ingenuity in military architecture. Its strategic importance throughout different historical periods makes it an invaluable part of India’s rich cultural heritage. The fort stands as a testament to the valor of the warriors who defended it and the various dynasties that ruled the region. Its ruins offer a glimpse into the grandeur and military acumen of medieval India.
Senji Fort’s impressive structure and fascinating history make it a significant cultural and historical site in India. From its origins under the Chola dynasty to its role as a military stronghold during the Mughal and British eras, the fort continues to captivate visitors and historians alike. Its architectural brilliance, strategic significance, and diverse cultural influences make Senji Fort a true jewel in India’s historical landscape.
