Located at a strategic site in northern Pakistan, Province of Punjab, Rohtas Fort was constructed in the early 16th century. Rohtas Fort is an exceptional example of Muslim military architecture in Central and South Asia. The main fortifications of the 70 hectare garrison are formed by huge masonry walls over four km in circumference, reinforced by 68 bastions and pierced at strategic points by 12 monumental gateways. It brought together architectural and artistic traditions from elsewhere in the Islamic world and had a far-reaching influence on the development of architectural style in the Mughal Empire.
Sher Sha Suri, founder of the Suri dynasty, began building Rohtas Fort, 1541 Irregular in plan, this early example of Muslim military architecture follows the contours of its hilltop site. It had an interior wall that separated it from the rest of the fort, while an internal water supply in the form of baolis made the garrison fairly self-sufficient for water. There exists a fine mosque under the name of Shahi Masjid along the Kabuli Gate; Haveli Man Singh was constructed later during the Mughal period. Rohtas Fort represented a new form of fortification-one essentially based upon Turkish military architecture developed in reaction to the introduction of gunpowder and cannon-but transformed into a distinct style of its own.
Rohtas Fort combined the traditions of Turkish architecture and art with those of the Indian subcontinent, and thereby provided the model for Mughal architecture and its later refinements and adaptations-including European colonial architecture-which made such abundant use of that tradition. This is specially true of the decorative elements, particularly high- and low-relief carving, calligraphic inscriptions in marble and sandstone, plaster decoration, glazed tiles, which are of remarkable sophistication and of high artistic value.
It was in continuous use until 1707 and then re-occupied under the Durrani and Sikh rulers of the 18th and 19th centuries respectively. A village grew within its walls, and exists day. Rohtas Fort is unique: there are no surviving examples on the subcontinent of military architecture of this period on the same scale and with the same degree of completeness and preservation.
- The Context
1.1 Sher Shah Suri’s Rise
Sher Shah Suri founded the Suri Empire through his military genius and wisdom. Sher Shah, after defeating the Mughal Emperor Humayun, wanted not only to establish his rule but also to rule out chances of invasion once again. This quest brought him to Rohtas Fort.
1.2 Conceptualizing Rohtas Fort
While most other forts were built for reasons of defense alone, the Rohtas Fort had to play its strategic role in keeping the local Gakhar tribes in control and in asserting the Suri authority in the region. It was also supposed to act as one of the major military posts that was to be situated on the ancient Grand Trunk Road. - Architectural Marvel
2.1 The Design Philosophy
Rohtas Fort bears testimony to the wonderful combination of Afghan and Mughal architectural excellence. Rohtas Fort was built with massive entrance gates, high raised walls, and an elaborative design in order to stand for military purpose combined with aesthetic beauty.
2.2 Salient Features of Architecture
2.2.1 Main Entrance: The Great Gate
Perhaps the salient feature of Rohtas Fort is the ‘Great Gate’ or the ‘Khoi Gate, a colossus standing in its own right as a monument to Mughal military architecture. Its gigantic size was intended to cow and impress at the same time.
2.2.2 Wall and Towers
The fort walls are intercepted by high bastions and are more than 4 km long in length. Strong force as it was built in a way that it could act as an infrastructure for the defense mechanisms to bear against the enemy’s attack
2.2.3 The Baradari
The other attraction is the Baradari or the Twelve-Portico Pavilion. It is an open pavilion that is used to rest and hold war discussions comfortably
- Cultural Significance
3.1 Rohtas Fort in Literature and Art
Rohtas Fort has been projected as a symbol of strength and greatness in history in lots of literature and paintings. It finds its mention in poetry and painting to mark its beauty as a cultural icon.
3.2 The Fort’s Role in the Present Times
Rohtas Fort has been declared UNESCO World Heritage, and it is one of the most famous tourist destinations these days since this very fort reminds people about the glorious historical and cultural past of Pakistan.
- Preservation and Conservation
4.1 The Challenge of Preservation
These are the few challenges that come up for maintaining Rohtang Fort’s natural erosion and human activities. It needs to preserve its structural integrity, which requires efforts both on the part of local authorities and at international levels.
4.2 Current Conservation
Archaeological studies, repair work and public awareness form part of the conservation and restoration work on the fort. - Rohtas Fort Visit
5.1 How to Reach
It is about 16 kms away from the city of Jhelum. It can be accessed by road and presents an exquisite sight of the Pak countryside.
5.2 What to Expect
The grounds of this fort are huge and one can well view the gates, walls and pavilions of the fort. There are guided tours through the fort equipped with a lot of knowledge regarding its history and architecture.
5.3 Tips for Travelers
Wear comfortable shoes due to uneven terrains; it is easy to carry your weight when wearing comfortable shoes.
Bring your camera along, the fort has great spots for snapping any camera.
Respect the site: Being a historical site, one must follow the set regulations by the governing body
- Conclusion
Every word that was ever said of Rohtas Fort spoke volumes about standing Mughal and Afghan architecture to this date. In itself, it was testimony to military prowess combined with artistic foresight at the times. Its well-preserved state still draws in historians, architects, and tourists alike. For historians to traveling adventurers, Rohtas Fort offers a sniffing depth into the rich heritage of bygone times in Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of day can one best see Rohtas Fort?
It is best to see it starting in October and staying till March.
Is Rohtas Fort wheelchair accessible?
It is not; the ground is uneven, and it is best if you call in advance and see if they have made any accommodations for accessibility issues.
Does Rohtas Fort do tours?
Yes, guided tours are provided that include all information about the history and architecture regarding the fort.
Can the walls of Rohtas Fort be climbed?
Parts of the walls of the fort go upwards, yet sometimes not for reasons of safety.
What’s near Rohtas Fort?
The City of Jhelum is nearby, and the countryside of the Punjab region is fabulously attractive.
