Madaksira Fort: The Seeds of Vijayanagara Empire

Anshika Rana

Madaksira Fort: The Seeds of Vijayanagara Empire

Madaksira is a historic fort located in South India that was built 500 years ago by the Vijayanagara brothers, Harihara and Bukka. The fort is made of boulders and brick structures and features seven gates carved into the stone and several cave formations. Despite being neglected for centuries, the fort still stands tall, with a grand entrance guarded by two towers. Its construction marks the beginning of the rise to power of the Vijayanagara Empire, a formidable empire that had no predecessors in the region's history.

View of Madaksira from a nearby hill; Source: Madaksira trek blog

Madakasira, a small town in Andhra Pradesh, is a three-hour drive from Bangalore and is renowned for its ancient hill fort, Madaksira or Simhagiri (Lion's Mountain). Constructed using massive boulders and brick structures, the fort has witnessed the rule of numerous dynasties. It is adorned with seven intricately carved stone gates and several cave formations. Neglected for the past 500 years, the fort has weathered the test of time and nature's forces.

Madakasira is an unassuming town where modest houses dot the foothills, with the imposing fort towering above them. The narrow streets of this hilly settlement lead to the grand entrance of the majestic fort. Two robust towers flank the entrance like vigilant guards. Under the bright sun, the monochromatic landscape of brown boulders, walls, and stairs dominates the scenery.

The entrance marks the beginning of a series of magnificent staircases that serve as a guide to the fort. The steps, crafted from large stone slabs, provide a sturdy footing. However, a few unsteady stone blocks scattered here and there remind visitors to remain vigilant within this formidable defensive structure. Though the ascent is steep, the picturesque landscape makes it feel far from discouraging.

Ascending the brown steps, a path emerges, bordered by colossal boulders that seem almost impassable. Yet, surprisingly, one can easily traverse it. It is a marvel to contemplate how soldiers manoeuvred through this narrow passage during moments of urgency. The fort comprises a total of seven gates, all constructed by Morari Rao. Exploring history unveils the story of Morari Rao.

The top of the fort is so vast in its dimensions that it distorts one's perception of space and measurement. From there, one can enjoy an uninterrupted panoramic view of the landscape below, adorned in shades of brown, blue, and green, representing the earth, water, and vegetation. Singhemoothi, situated at the edge of the hill fort, stands in a state of serene meditation, with a bell hanging from its roof, watching over the town of Madaksira and warding off any danger that lurks.

Madaksira Fort holds significance as the birthplace of the Vijayanagara leaders who laid the foundation of their own empire. Harihara and Bukka built the fort during their rule over Madaksira after fleeing from the attack on Warangal by Malik Kafur. Seeking refuge in Anegondi, they ascended to positions of political importance. In 1334, when Mohammad Bin Tughlaq killed the Raja of Anegondi, Harihara was made the king of Madaksira and Bukka became the Minister.

With their newfound power, the brothers pursued their dream of establishing an independent empire. Anantpur remained under Vijayanagara's rule until the empire's decline. However, in 1564, a coalition of Muslim rulers at Talikota brought an end to Vijayanagara's growth and devastated the empire. Subsequently, the king of Golconda invaded the region, including Anantpur, in 1589.

Meanwhile, the Marathas were gaining power in western India and gradually advanced towards Anantpur. Morari Rao, the renowned Maratha adventurer, established himself at Gooty and took control of the region, including Madaksira. He constructed temples, the Hinduraya well, and a unique structure called Singemoothe at the summit. Singemoothe boasted four pillars and a large bell to warn soldiers of impending danger. Additionally, he initiated the construction of the Venteshwara Temple near the south gate of the fort. However, during the second attack by Hyder Ali, the fort fell to Mysore, leaving the temple unfinished.