Gharapuri

**Puri/Gharapuri: History & Rulers** In the early 7th century, Pulkeshi Chalukyas won Puri (also called Gharapuri), the capital of the Mauryas of Konkan. A scripture in Aihole, Karnataka, describes Puri as resembling Goddess Lakshmi and a mighty Elephant, noting Pulkeshi's siege by hundreds of ships. **Successive Rulers:** After the Mauryas of Konkan, control passed to the Chalukyas of Badami, Shilahar, Rashtrakuts, Chalukyas of Kalyani, Yadavs of Devgiri, Sultan of Gujarat, Portuguese, Marathas, and finally the British. **Key Events:** * **15th Century:** Portuguese ruined the island's caves. * **Later:** Marathas took control. * **British Era:** A fort was built for proximity and protection of Mumbai.

Fort Highlights: Located on the right of two island hills. Two 35-long canons offer 360-degree firing via gears/bearings (visible underneath). Underground chambers hold ammo and soldiers' barracks. Barracks feature an 'L' shaped ventilation pipe for fresh air. See remnants of structures between the canons. The second canon uses a pulley for ammunition. Nearby forts visible: Dronagiri (East) and Khanderi-Undheri (South).