Subhan Mangal

1648: Shahaji Maharaj was captured by Mustafa Khan (Adilshah's general). Adilshah ordered Fateh Khan to defeat Shivaji Maharaj. Since the Maratha empire was small, Shivaji Maharaj chose to fight near the kingdom's borders, planning his battle around Purandar Fort. Fateh Khan set up camp in Belsar village (near Purandar Fort) and sent Balaji Haibatrao to take Subhan Mangal Fort (near Shirval). Facing a smaller army, Shivaji Maharaj yielded Subhan Mangal easily to avoid losses. Fateh Khan became complacent with the fort's security. The next dawn, Shivaji Maharaj's general, Kavji Malhar Khasnis, launched a surprise attack, breaching the fort wall. Subhan Mangal was successfully reclaimed for the Maratha Kingdom!

Explore this fort! Spread north-south, only one bastion remains intact, flying a saffron flag. Visit the east-facing Goddess Durga temple (check out the two Veerghals on the left before entering). A small pathway offers great views of the Neera river, though dense bushes cover most of the fort top. Nearby Shirval is home to many temples: Kedareshwar, Ambika, Bhairavnath, Mandaidevi, & Rameshwar.