Gooty: The fort with 15 forts and 108 ponds

Gooty or Gutti Fort is an over 1000-year-old fort complex in the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh. The historical monument houses 15 interconnected smaller forts and boasts 108 ponds for supplying water to its residents.

Also known as Ravadurg, it is designated a centrally protected monument of national importance. An inscription by Bukka Raya I of the Vijayanagar Empire mentions the fort as the ‘King of Forts’. 

Built in the shape of a shell using granite, lime, and mortar, it is spread over 20 acres. The fort has many buildings ranging from granaries and barracks to magazines and a gymnasium that have witnessed centuries of sieges and wars. 

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Gooty is fortified by an extensive outer wall supported by bastions. Three interconnected hills, linked by lower spurs, form a cohesive and formidable defence system. Each of the 15 smaller forts within this complex has its own gateway connected to the outer wall. 

History

While it is unknown who constructed the fort, inscriptions found here are from the reign of the Western Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI Tribhuvanamalla (1076 CE-1126 CE). 

When Cholas under Vira Rajendra (1063 CE-1070 CE) laid siege to the fort, the Chalukyas defended the fort and the Cholas had to return empty-handed. The fort underwent significant transformations under subsequent rulers, including the Vijayanagara kings, Marathas, British, and Nizams. Each left an indelible mark on the structure, reflecting their unique architectural sensibilities. 

The fort’s history is steeped in power struggles, transitioning from the Vijayanagara Empire to the Qutb Shahi dynasty of Golconda and Hyderabad. Murari Rao Ghorpade (1699-1779), known as Murari Rao, was an army general in the Maratha Army from Gooty and administered the fort. A small pavilion atop a cliff offers breathtaking views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

Legend has it that Morari Rao used to relax, swing, and often play chess at this spot.

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Water Structures

The citadel provides panoramic views of the town below. At sunset, the horizon transforms into a canvas of brilliant hues, casting an enchanting glow over the landscape. To explore the fort, a well-maintained paved path winds its way from the base of the hillock to the summit. It takes about an hour to reach the top.

Inside, one can see reservoirs carved to capture monsoon rains and store water for the dry season.

The highlight of the fort’s engineering marvel is its network of 108 water structures. The water from the hills was channelled to reach the ponds, a sophisticated water conservation system that reflects the advanced knowledge of its ancient builders. 

At various levels of the fort, one can still see many of the reservoirs excavated in ancient times to harvest rainwater. The water collected during the monsoons usually sufficed for the entire year though in 1775, when Hyder Ali laid siege to the town, Morari Rao had to surrender owing to a shortage of water.

Temples and Sufi shrine

At the summit of the hill, Gooty Fort houses ancient ponds and temples, each with a story to tell. These include the grand Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, the peaceful Nageswara Swami Temple, the Hanuman Temple, the mystical Jyothimma Temple, and the sacred Ramaswamy Temple. 

Adding to this rich spiritual tapestry, a dargah also resides within the fort’s walls, symbolizing the harmony of diverse faiths that thrived here.

The coexistence of these sacred sites within a single fortress underscores its cultural and spiritual significance.

The region surrounding Gooty Fort is also a treasure trove of attractions. Close by, the Bugga Ramalingeswara Swamy Temple stands as a stunning example of Vijayanagara architecture, captivating visitors with its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere. 

There is also the Mounagiri Hanuman Temple and the awe-inspiring Belum Caves that offer a perfect retreat. The nearby town of Gooty, with its bustling markets and vibrant culture, provides a glimpse into the local way of life. 

A short journey will take you to the sacred shrine of Ahobilam, revered by pilgrims far and wide. Nature enthusiasts can venture into the lush Nallamala Forests, where a rich diversity of flora and fauna awaits discovery.

Gooty Fort is much more than its ruins suggest. It is a beacon of resilience, an architectural masterpiece that has withstood the test of time. 

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