way 2 CHANDAN VANDAN

According to the evidence of copper-inscriptions (Tamralekh) of 1191-1192 B.C., these forts were built-up by king Bhoj II of Shilahar dynasty. Shivaji Maharaj overpowered Chandan-Vandan along with Kalyangad, Sajjangad, and Ajinkyatara during the campaign of Satara in 1673. Afterwards, during the administration of Sambhaji, Amanullah Khan attacked the troop of Maratha soldiers on Chandan-Vandan. More than 25 horses, 15 guns, 3 ensigns, 1 kettle-drum were lost in the hands of Mughals in this battle. Marathas ruled this region up to 1689 B.C. Subsequently Mughals ruled this fort. In 1707, Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj won this region during rainy season. In 1752, Dadopant was accompanied by soldiers by Balaji Vishwanath to keep close watch on Tarabai. Later, British ruled over these forts.

In earlier times, the way near the entrance of Chandan was difficult to access. But recently the way has become broader because of mosque situated at that place. There are two bastions at the entrance gate which are presently in a half-demolished state. Approximately about 15 steps ahead of this on the left hand side lays a demolished edifice. There is a banyan tree at the upper side of this structure which is known as ‘Panchvad’, as it is comprised of five banyan trees. There is a temple of lord Shiva near the tree. Both the “Pindis” in the temple are comprised of five “Lingas”. In the month of ‘Shravan’, the fifth month of Hindu year, there is a pilgrimage every year in this temple.

 Villagers have refurbished the temple. Huge stones, arranged one above the other, can be seen at about 10 steps ahead from the temple.There is a mosque on the fort. A wall-like structure can be seen adjacent to the mosque. Remnants of some structures are found behind the mosque. It seems to be a residential area of those days. An intact bastion can be seen at the north end of the fort. A self-immolation lies on the way to this bastion. There is a ‘Shivalinga’ and a statue of lord Hanumana over the bastion.

By way of Belmachi Village it takes half an hour to climb the fort from the rock patch in front of the col. One reaches on the southern part of the fort through this route. The other way goes around the fort, with the fort lying on the left side of the way.