Rupgadh or the Roopgadh Fort serves as a rugged stone chronicle of the transition of power in Gujarat, beginning long before the Marathas arrived. Originally, the hill was a strategic stronghold for the local Bhil Kings, the indigenous rulers of the Dangs who used the natural elevation to monitor their forest territories. This changed in the early 18th century when Pilaji Rao…
Pilajirao
In the early 18th century, Pilajirao Gaekwad, a prominent leader, faced territorial claims from Bande. In response, Pilajirao strategically selected Songadh, a rugged hill fort in a remote location, as his stronghold. This decision was pivotal for his military and political maneuvers. Seizure, Reconstruction, and Strengthening of Songadh Pilajirao Gaekwad initially captured Songadh from its indigenous Mehvasi Bhil ruler and…
Pilaji Rao Gaekwad, who died on May 14, 1732, was a distinguished Maratha general and the founder of the Gaekwad Dynasty of Baroda. He succeeded his uncle, Damajirao Gaekwad I, who was second in command to the Senapati for the Peshwa. Appointed by the Peshwa, the effective ruler of the Maratha Empire, to collect revenues from Gujarat, Pilaji Rao established…