Mumbai was once part of the Portuguese-occupied North Konkan region. This area was known as Firangan in the Marathi language. Most of the forts in Firangan are built by westerners. These forts had some special architectural style. Considering the history of Firangan, it can be seen that the Portuguese had built single bastions in some places and outposts in other places to achieve the purpose of the forts. Some forts are still standing in good condition in Mumbai, preserving the historical heritage. These forts in Mumbai were once in the possession of the Portuguese and later the British. Today we are going to visit Worli fort in the Worli area of Mumbai. Worli Koliwada has a narrow alley leading to the beach from the bus stop of Adarsh Nagar. After walking for about ten minutes through this alley, you reach the fort of Worli. ... The fort was built by the Portuguese in 1561 on a small hill on the island of Worli. The fort features special Portuguese architecture, with thick walls at the base, a triangular bastion to the south of the fort, and a tower built for a bell. Along with the Mumbai Islands, the fort came under British control in 1665. There were a total of 11 forts on the islands of Mumbai. Worli, Mahim, and Bandra fort combine to form the letter U on this coastal. The sea is always still here due to the natural curved terrain of this place. Due to this, small scaffolding, ships, and boat used to be transported in large numbers in this area. The fort is in good condition as the Archaeological Department recently repaired the fort. There is a small door to enter the fort and a small bastion is built on the top of the door. This fort has a source of water that is not found in any other fort in Mumbai. The fort has a well of water and a small temple and gymnasium recently built next to it. The area up to Bandra and Mahim is visible from the curtain wall of the ramparts. Outside the fort, you can see 3 quadrangle structures built for the cannons. In the 17th century, the British kept cannons here to deal with the pirates. Worli-Bandra sea bridge can be seen from the fort. As the fort is small in size, it can be easily seen in half an hour.
© Suresh Nimbalkar