While exploring the forts of the Marathwada region, one finds that except for a few ground forts (Bhuikot) and the occasional hill fort (Giridurg), most districts have very few forts. Since this region was under the rule of the Nizam before independence, many forts and fortified mansions (Gadhis) remained in use until relatively recent times and are thus still in a fairly good condition today. In Hingoli district, there are four medium-sized forts. Of these, three are built on small hillocks, while the Lohara Fort is built on flat land—and even that remains only partially constructed. However, the beautifully designed stepwell inside this fort is reason enough to visit it. Located in Lohara Khurd village, the fort lies approximately 35 km from Hingoli and 16 km from Aundha Nagnath. ... Given the local transport conditions, it's advisable to use a private vehicle to reach the fort. Since locals are familiar with the place, the fort can be easily located just outside Lohara Khurd village. The fort is square in shape and occupies about 1.5 acres. Its construction remains incomplete, and no entrance gate is visible. The stone masonry fortification is about seven feet high, built using dressed stone and lime mortar. There are a total of seven bastions, one of which has a recently constructed temple atop it. The main attraction of the fort is a circular stepwell. Around 60 feet deep, the well is built with bricks and has a doorway at its base. A stairway, carved beside the well, leads down to this door, and the entire passage is constructed using finely cut stone. On the western side of the fort, stone was quarried for construction, resulting in the formation of a moat in that direction. This moat still holds water, suggesting that it might have been designed to meet the fort’s extra water requirements. Though the lower-level fortifications were completed, parts of them have now collapsed in places. Apart from the well, no other structures or remnants are visible within the fort. Half an hour is sufficient to explore the entire site. Since the fort is only partially constructed, the locals are unaware of any significant historical background associated with it.
© Suresh Nimbalkar