Mahendragarh Fort set to become protected site

Mahendragarh Fort, originally known as Kanod Fort, will soon join the list of historical monuments protected under the Haryana Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1964.

According to a notification issued recently, the Governor has proposed to declare Mahendragarh Fort, located in the heart of Mahendragarh city, as a protected monument, recognising its significant archaeological, architectural and historical value. Spread over 149 kanals and 2 marlas, the site is owned by the Haryana Heritage and Tourism Department at present.

“Public suggestions or objections, if any, regarding the proposal may be submitted to the Principal Secretary, Heritage and Tourism Department, Government of Haryana, Chandigarh, within two months of the gazette publication. Thereafter, the proposal will be taken into consideration by the government,” the notification states.

The move is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to preserve Haryana’s rich heritage and promote cultural tourism by safeguarding monuments of historical importance.

“The fort is at present in a neglected state, with tall grass covering much of the area and very few tourists visiting the site. It was last repaired over three years ago, and no maintenance work has been carried out since then. Once it is declared a protected site, the fort will be renovated and maintained by the Archaeology Department,” said a local official.

Harendra Yadav, DGM (Tourism), said a total of 13 sites in Mahendragarh district are protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, while three are under the protection of the Haryana Department of Archaeology. “The process of declaring Mahendragarh Fort as a protected site has already been initiated, and a notification has been issued to invite public suggestions or objections in this regard,” he added.

The development has brought cheer to residents, who are hopeful that the historical fort will finally get a facelift after being declared a protected site.

“The fort has been lying neglected for many years, though it has great potential to be developed as a tourist attraction. Many visitors who come to Narnaul from different parts of the country will also like to explore this site if it is restored and beautified. Renovation of the fort has become the need of the hour, and the authorities should ensure its preservation so that future generations can connect with the era in which it was built,” said Pradeep Sharma, a resident.

As per the government notification, the Mahendragarh Fort is a site of considerable historical importance. Constructed in 1755 CE by the renowned Maratha commander Tatya Tope, the fort stands as a testament to the expansion of Maratha influencer into Northern India during the mid-18th Century.

“In 1860, during the British Raj, the fort and its surrounding region were incorporated into the Patiala state. Subsequently, Maharaja Narendra Singh of Patiala renamed the fort of Mahendragarh in honour of his son, Mahendra Singh. This renaming extended beyond the fort to the town itself and the administrative unit, formally known as Narnaul Nizam, which was also renamed Mahendragarh Nizam,” states the notification.

As per the notification, prior to the Maratha period, it is believed that Malik Mahadud Khan, an official of Emperor Babur, had established a settlement in the area during the early Mughal period, indicating the site’s earlier strategic and settlement value. The architecture of Mahendragarh Fort reflects a rich synthesis of Rajput, Mughal, and Maratha styles, showcasing the diverse culture and political influences that shaped the region over centuries.

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