Umarkot Fort facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Umarkot Fort |
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| Amarkot Fort | |
| Part of Sodha Rajputana until 1947 | |
| Umerkot District, Sindh | |
Fort Tower of Umarkot Fort
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| Coordinates | 25°21′49″N 69°44′2″E / 25.36361°N 69.73389°E |
| Type | Desert Fortification |
| Site information | |
| Controlled by | Pakistan |
| Open to the public |
Yes |
| Condition | Protected Monument |
| Site history | |
| Built | 11th century |
| Built by | Rana Amar Singh |
Umarkot Fort (Urdu: قِلعہ عُمَرکوٹ; Sindhi: عمر ڪوٽ جو قلعو), also known as Amarkot (Urdu: امَرکوٹ; Sindhi:امرڪوٽ), is an old fort located in Umerkot, Sindh. It was built by Rana Amar Singh Sodha in the 11th century. The fort is famous because it's where Emperor Akbar, one of the most powerful rulers of the Mughal Empire, was born.
Akbar was born here on October 15, 1542. His father, Emperor Humayun, had to leave his kingdom after losing battles to Sher Shah Suri. Humayun found safety and help from Rana Prasad Singh Sodha, who was the ruler of Umarkot at that time. It was during this time that Akbar's mother, Hamida Bano Begum, gave birth to him in the fort. Akbar later became a very important emperor of Hindustan, respected by both Hindus and Muslims.
Contents
History of Umarkot Fort
Who Built Umarkot Fort?
Umarkot Fort was built by Rana Amar Singh in the 11th century. For a long time, it was controlled by the Sodha Hindu Rajput family, known as the Ranas of Umerkot. This family played a big role in the fort's history.
Changes in Control
Over the centuries, the fort saw different rulers. In 1746, a Mughal governor named Noor Mohammad Kalhoro built a new fort in the same area. Later, the British took control of the region. After Pakistan was formed, the fort came under the control of the Pakistani government. Even today, the Rana family, who once owned the fort, still has their family lands nearby.
The Legend of Umar Marvi
A Story of Courage
Umarkot is also famous for a well-known local story called Umar Marvi. This is a tale about a young girl named Marvi from the Thar Desert. The ruler of Umarkot, named Umar, was so impressed by her beauty that he kidnapped her. He wanted to marry her, but Marvi refused.
Marvi's Strength
Marvi was held prisoner in the historic Umarkot Fort for many years. Despite being held captive, she never gave up and always refused to marry Umar. Eventually, she was released. Her bravery and strong will make Marvi a hero for the local people, showing how important it is to stand up for what you believe in.
See also
- List of World Heritage Sites in Pakistan
- List of forts in Pakistan
- List of museums in Pakistan
- Umerkot
