Kandhar Fort

Kandhar Fort, also known as Kandhar Khilla, is a historic military installation situated in the town of Kandhar within the Nanded district of Maharashtra, India. Constructed between 939 and 967 CE, the fort was built under the patronage of King Krishna III of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. The structure is notable for its robust architecture, utilizing black stones and cement in its construction. Spanning approximately 410 meters in length, the fortification stands as a significant example of early medieval Indian military engineering. Today, the site is owned by the Government of India and managed by the Government of Maharashtra, remaining in good condition and open to the public as a key tourist attraction in the region.

The fort holds considerable historical significance due to its strategic role during later imperial conflicts. In 1631, the stronghold became the focal point of a major siege when the Mughal Empire, led by commander Nasiri Khan, launched an assault to capture the territory. After a prolonged blockade lasting nineteen days, Mughal forces successfully seized the fort. This pivotal event was culturally immortalized by the artist Payag, who depicted the siege in the famous Padshahnama manuscript. This artistic record ensures that the battle remains a documented chapter in the military history of the Deccan plateau, linking the site to the broader narrative of Mughal expansion in India.

Currently, Kandhar Fort serves as an important heritage site for visitors interested in the region's rich past. Its preservation allows tourists to explore the remnants of Rashtrakuta craftsmanship while learning about the subsequent Mughal conquests that shaped the area's political landscape. The combination of its ancient origins, distinct building materials, and its connection to documented historical events makes it a unique destination within Maharashtra's network of forts.