Which was the First Capital of the Maratha Empire?
Let us explore the details about Rajgad, the first capital of the Maratha Empire, its history, architecture, strategic importance, and its inclusion in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Maratha Empire is one of the most famous empires in Indian history, and is made famous by the exploits of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, one of the greatest warrior kings ever born in India.
It was Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire in 1646. At the age of 16 years only, he led the Maratha army to capture the Torna fort, which belonged to a Bahamani ruler Malik Ahmed.
With the gold obtained from the Torna Fort, Shivaji Maharaj set up the first capital of the Maratha Empire in the Rajgad Fort. It was the capital of the Maratha Empire for a period of 26 years, till the new capital was moved to Raigad Fort in 1674.
Let us explore the history of Rajgad Fort, its architecture and strategic importance to the Maratha Empire.
Rajgad Fort: History and Architecture
Rajgad Fort, meaning the Royal Fort, is an example of the architectural marvel of the Marathas. The fort was established as the first capital of the Maratha Empire in 1646 by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the famous ruler of the Marathas.
Rajgad Fort was previously known as Murumbdev before being built as a fort. The fort spans four ridges, and features formidable bastions, secret pathways, palaces and water cisterns making it a remarkable piece of Maratha military architecture.
The famous Padmavati temple is located inside the Rajgad fort, and it is believed that the severed head of Afzal Khan, is also buried somewhere within the watchtowers of the Rajgad Fort.
Rajgad Fort: Significance for Marathas
Rajgad Fort was of immense significance for the Marathas, as it was the first capital of the Maratha Empire, and it was also the place where Shivaji Maharaj’s wife Saibai passed away, it was also the place where Rajaram 1 was born.
It was also one of the unconquered forts that were retained by the Marathas after the Treaty of Purandar. Its historical significance is further enhanced by the fact that it was also one of the 12 forts that was recognised by as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2025.
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Mriganka Chakraborty is a seasoned digital journalist and communications professional who is currently working as Deputy Manager at Jagran Josh, where he leads the General Knowledge Section. As a subject matter expert with 8+ years of editorial experience, he has created authoritative content that is trusted by millions of readers around the world in Science, History, Geography, Polity, Economy, Sports, and Technology. His extensive expertise in these subjects enables him to present complex topics in an engaging, accurate, and reader-friendly manner to a global audience, making learning addictive and fun.
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