Underi

Underi, also known as Jaidurg, is a historic sea fort situated on a small island near the mouth of Mumbai Harbour in the Raigad District of Maharashtra, India. Located just south of Prong's Lighthouse, it serves as a companion fort to the larger Khanderi island. Together, these two fortified islands have historically functioned as critical navigational landmarks for ships entering the busy Mumbai Harbour. The site is currently under the ownership of the Government of India and remains open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's maritime defense history despite its uninhabited status.

The fortification was constructed in 1680 CE by Kahim, a commander of the Siddis, an African-Indian military community that played a significant role in the coastal politics of the era. Built during a period of intense naval rivalry along the Konkan coast, Underi was designed to secure the sea approaches against European trading companies and rival Indian powers. Although smaller in size compared to its counterpart Khanderi, its strategic placement allowed it to effectively monitor and control maritime traffic. The structure stands as a testament to the Siddi naval prowess and their ability to establish strongholds in challenging island environments.

Today, Underi exists as a protected historical monument and a point of interest for heritage enthusiasts exploring the forts of Maharashtra. While specific details regarding its current architectural condition are sparse in available records, the site retains its significance as part of the defensive chain that once guarded the western coast of India. Its enduring presence highlights the complex layers of colonial and pre-colonial history that define the Mumbai region. As an uninhabited island with a rich past, Underi continues to attract those interested in the military architecture and seafaring legacy of the Maratha and Siddi periods.