The Gudibande Fort, an architectural marvel, was built over 400 years ago in the 17th century by a yogi and local chieftain named Byre Gowda. It is believed that Byre Gowda belonged to the illustrious Tuluva dynasty of the Vijayanagar empire. The fort, often referred to as a concise replica of the Madhugiri fort, showcases remarkable features that have enthralled generations.
One of the fort’s most remarkable features is its pioneering rainwater harvesting system. Byre Gowda’s ingenuity is evident in the network of 19 rock ponds strategically placed at different levels of the fort. These interconnected water bodies and tanks, known as ‘dhones,’ had the capacity to hold nearly 3 lakh liters of rainwater, making the fort a model of sustainability for its time.
Perched atop the fort’s summit is the majestic “Sir Rameshwara Temple.” Legend has it that this temple was established by the revered Sage Vishwamitra and Lord Rama. It is believed to house one of the 108 Jyotirlingas, making it a significant pilgrimage site for devotees.
The Gudibande Fort stands tall with seven levels, each intricately designed and featuring interconnecting escape routes that served as lifelines for soldiers in times of emergency.
The fort’s exquisite architecture is adorned with strong pillars boasting square bases, adorned with well-sculpted images that tell tales of a bygone era.
Visitors to the Gudibande Fort are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Byrasagara reservoir, adding to the allure of this historical gem.
At Jana Kalyana Trust, we believe in the power of art to shape communities, preserve culture, and create opportunities for rural artists across India.
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