# Lodhi Fort

- **Country:** India
- **Location Text:** Ludhiana

Lodhi Fort, also known as Purana Kila or the Old Fort, is a historic citadel located in the city of Ludhiana within the Indian state of Punjab. Strategically positioned on the banks of the Sutlej River, the structure features a notable underground tunnel that historically connected the fortress to the neighboring town of Phillaur. The fort was constructed over five hundred years ago during the reign of Sikandar Khan Lodi, representing a significant example of military architecture from the Lodi dynasty era. Its design facilitated both defense and regional connectivity, serving as a crucial stronghold in the region for centuries.

Throughout its long history, the fort remained well-maintained under the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and continued to be utilized by the British administration following their arrival in the area. In more recent times, the campus housed the Government Institute of Textile Chemistry and Knitting Technology before the institution relocated to a new facility in Rishi Nagar. Despite its rich past, the monument eventually fell into a state of disrepair and was largely forgotten by the general public. Recognizing its cultural value, the government declared it a state-protected monument in December 2013 to prevent further decay.

Today, Lodhi Fort stands as a testament to the layered history of Punjab, though it faces challenges regarding preservation and visibility. While it no longer serves an active military or educational function, its status as a protected site highlights efforts to conserve this ancient heritage. The fort remains an important landmark for understanding the historical development of Ludhiana, linking the modern city to its medieval origins under the Lodi rulers and subsequent Sikh and British influences.

![Photo of Lodhi Fort](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4e/Old_Fort_of_Lodhi_Garden.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lodi_Fort (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)