Mumbaikars know the Erangal Beach on the Western Railway. Erangal village is situated on the sea coast about twelve kilometers west of Malad railway station. Seeing the coconut groves, the bungalows and the overall atmosphere, one feels as if one has come to Goa. Danapani beach is 1 km from Erangal village. At the end of the Danapani beach, there is an armed force fence and just besides here, near the rocky part, the Erangal Buruj is situated. This bastion is a round shaped watchtower. As the historical name of this bastion is not known, it is known as Erangal Bastion after the area. This bastion in the middle of the rocky part of the sea is on the verge of extinction. Stones, lime, and shells have been used for the construction of this circular shaped bastion, which is currently 10 to 12 feet high, while carved stones have been used in the construction of the upper part. ... The structure made for tying bells on the bastion is a unique feature of Portuguese architecture. Although there are no steps to climb up, one can climb up with the help of hands, but as the place is under the control of the armed forces, one should avoid entering it. The bastion is small and can be seen from outside within ten minutes. This area was once part of the North Konkan region which was under the control of the Portuguese. This locality was known as Firangan in Marathi language. Most of the forts in Firangana were built by the Portuguese. These forts had some special architectural style. Considering the history of Firangana, it can be seen that the Portuguese planned a bastion in some places and outposts in some places to achieve the purpose of the forts. This fort was built by the Portuguese to protect Erangal village. It was supposed to be used to monitor the shipping lanes of the bay and to intercept visiting boats with long-range cannons. Around the 16th century, this fort along with other forts in Madh area was also built by the Portuguese. Using all these small-sized forts, watchtowers with long-range cannons, the Portuguese established their empire in North Konkan. In the Vasai campaign of 1739 AD, this area was captured by the Marathas and the Portuguese were eliminated from this area. As there is no information available about this bastion and the local people have no knowledge about it, one should acquire full information before going there. A person who comes with an expectation to see a fort is likely to be disappointed, but if you want to see the Portuguese watch post and its geographical importance, you must visit this place. Apart from this there is a 450 year old west facing church built in 1575 AD in Erangal village. This church has a statue of Saint Bonaventure. This saint passed away in Italy in the 13th century. A great fair is held at Erangal on the second Sunday of January. In recent times, tourists flock to the beaches of Erangal. If there is no tide, the wide open beach available there is perfect for having fun times. Erangal beach is crowded on holidays. The enthusiasm and excitement fills it so much that for a few moments one feels as if one has come to Goa.
© Suresh Nimbalkar