The Watchtower of Kasaragod

Anjali Sreekumar

The Watchtower of Kasaragod

Bekal Fort is one of the largest forts in Kerala and has been meticulously preserved over the years. Its large ramparts and well-maintained walls create a clear distinction between land and water. After Tipu Sultan's death in 1799, Mysorean control over Bekal Fort ended and it was taken over by the English East India Company. Tipu Sultan's observation tower and Mukhyaprana temple are landmarks of Kasaragod's rich cultural heritage.

Bekal: Anchored in Stone - Outlook Traveller. (2017, July 20). Outlook Traveller. https://www.outlookindia.com/traveller/ot-getaway-guides/bekal-anchored-stone/

Bekal Fort is a breathtaking historical monument located in the mystical and picturesque village of Kasaragod. Constructed in the 17th century, this towering keyhole-shaped bastion offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea from its tall observation towers, which were formerly used to house heavy cannons.

The shape of the fort, with its large ramparts and well-maintained walls, creates a clear distinction between land and water. The unique architecture of the fort amplifies its beauty, making it a popular backdrop for films, television shows, and other productions.

Bekal Fort is one of Kerala's biggest forts and has been scrupulously conserved over time. It rises 130 feet above sea level and is located on a 35-kilometre-long headland. The fort is perched pleasantly on rocky hills beside the sea and commands an impressive view from the shore.

The Bekal Fort is believed to have existed since the reign of the Chirakkal Rajas, who ruled the Kolathiri Kingdom of North Malabar, the northernmost region of the state of Kerala. The construction of the fort is linked to the beginning of the Kolathiri reign, as massive forts were built for defensive purposes during that time. Many credit Shivappa Nayaka of Bednoor, the monarch of a Karnataka kingdom, with constructing the Bekal Fort. However, others believe that the Bekal and Chandragiri forts (another fort near Kasaragod) belonged to the Chirakkal Rajas and that Shivappa Nayaka reconstructed them after conquering the area in the 1650s or 1660s.

There was a prolonged battle between the Kolathiri Rajas and the Nayakas over control of the Bekal Fort. The Ramakshatriyas, who currently reside in and around Kasaragod, were likely brought in by the Nayakas to protect the fort. Locally known as Koteyar, which is a corruption of the term koteyavaru, meaning 'people of the fort', these battles had a transformative impact on the Ramakshatriyas, resulting in their transition from a nomadic tribe to a settled community.

The observation tower, erected by Tipu Sultan, is the most prominent structure within the fort. A large slope leads to the tower's summit, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside. There is also a water tank with a stairwell. Visitors are intrigued by numerous underground tunnels that lead to the sea via serpentine channels. Additionally, there are vast storage areas for ammunition and weapons. Near the entrance is the Mukhyaprana temple, which is devoted to Hanuman.

The temple's main attractions are its remarkable stonework and two Theyyam statues made of laterite. Other significant landmarks in the region include Tipu Sultan's historic mosque and several underground passages. Furthermore, a laterite rock garden has been erected in the parking area, which is an architectural masterpiece in and of itself. Trees have been planted on the beach, and a magnificent boardwalk has been built to make it easier to traverse the beach and enjoy its view.

The fort represents centuries of tradition and culture that have played a significant role in shaping the region. Standing tall and proud, this watchtower in Kasaragod is an icon of the area's rich cultural heritage, serving as a reminder of the history and traditions that have shaped this region over time.

Later, Hyder Ali rose to power in Mysore and captured vast amounts of land, including Bekal Fort. Over the years, the Ramakshatriyas have continued to play a role in the defence of Bekal Fort. Today, they remain a prominent part of the local community.

Bekal served as a major military station during Tipu Sultan's military expedition to capture Malabar. The coins and other items discovered during a recent archaeological excavation at Bekal Fort are evidence of the significant presence of the Mysore Sultans. The death of Tipu Sultan in 1799 marked the end of Mysorean control over the fort. Eventually, the English East India Company took over the fort.

During the Company's era, Bekal became the seat of the newly formed Bekal Taluk of the South Canara District within the Bombay Presidency. South Canara was annexed to the Madras Presidency in 1862, and Kasaragod Taluk replaced Bekal Taluk. Over time, the political and economic prominence of Bekal and its port gradually deteriorated. Kasaragod became a part of Kerala after the state was reorganized in 1956. The Archaeological Survey of India is now responsible for protecting and maintaining Bekal Fort.

Exquisitely sculpted Bekal Fort was built using dark maroon laterite stones. It is one of the largest forts in Kerala, spanning over 40 acres with a polygonal design. The fort's perimeter is surrounded by the sea for a substantial portion, emphasizing its positional versatility. However, its main entrance is located on the landward side, away from the water. The fort boasts magnificent walls and ramparts, broken up by massive bastions. The bastions feature several large and small gun apertures, while the walls are interlaced with windows and peepholes, historically used to locate adversaries from a distance.

Upadhya, R. (2021, June 19). Bekal fort. Deccan Herald. https://www.deccanherald.com/sunday-herald/sh-top-stories/kaleidoscopic-kasargod-998455.html

Bekal fort. (n.d.). Trip Advisor. https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g1809068-d1204887-Reviews-Bekal_Fort-Kasaragod_Kasaragod_District_Kerala.html