Gingee Fort facts for kids

Gingee Fort (also known as Senji Fort) is an amazing old fort in Tamil Nadu, India. It's found in the Villupuram District, about 160 kilometers (99 miles) from Chennai, the state capital. It's also quite close to the Union Territory of Puducherry. This fort was so strong that Shivaji, a famous Maratha king, called it the "most impregnable fortress in India." The British even nicknamed it the "Troy of the East" because it was so hard to capture! The closest train station is in Tindivanam, and the nearest airport is Chennai, about 150 kilometers (93 miles) away.

History of Gingee Fort

Gingee Fort has a very long and interesting history. It started as a small fort built by the Chola dynasty way back in the 9th century AD. Later, in the 13th century, the Kurumbar people made some changes to it.

Who Built the Fort?

Many people believe the fort was largely built and improved between the 15th and 16th centuries. This was done by the Nayaks. They were important leaders under the powerful Vijayanagara Empire. Over time, the Nayaks of Gingee became independent kings and made the fort even stronger.

Changes in Control

Gingee Fort was a very important place, so many different groups wanted to control it. In 1677 AD, the Marathas, led by the great Shivaji, took over the fort. After that, it passed through the hands of several rulers:

• The Bijapur sultans
• The Moghuls
• The Carnatic Nawabs
• The French
• Finally, the British in 1761

Raja Tej Singh's Story

The fort is also famous for its connection to Raja Tej Singh. He was a brave ruler who fought hard for the fort. He led a revolt against the Nawab of Arcot but sadly lost the battle and his life. His story is an important part of Gingee Fort's past.

Images for kids

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  Gingee Fort Hill view from road

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  Throne on the Krishnagiri

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  Gingee Fort History Board

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  Throne in Gingee Fort Hill

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  Kalyana Mahal at Gingee fort

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  Gingee fort as seen from the entrance

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  Queen fort as seen from Rajagiri