Ancient Astronomical Instrument Found At Raigad Fort, Sambhaji Raje Reveals Importance
Ancient Astronomical Instrument Found At Raigad Fort, Sambhaji Raje Reveals Importance
Raigad Fort | June 2, 2025 – An ancient astronomical instrument, believed to be a Shiv-era directional device known as Yantraraj (Astrolabe), has been discovered during ongoing excavations at the historic Raigad Fort. The revelation was made by former MP Yuvraj Sambhaji Raje Chhatrapati through a Facebook post.
The excavation project is a joint initiative by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Raigad Development Authority. For the past three to four years, several areas of the fort—including behind the ropeway upper station, near Kushawart Lake, the bazaar area, and the Jagdishwar Temple—have been systematically excavated. These efforts have uncovered remnants of old structures dating back to the Maratha era.
The recently found astrolabe was discovered near Kushawart Lake, between the historical rain gauge site and the Vadeweshwar Temple. This rare instrument, called Yantraraj, is believed to have been used for astronomical observations and reflects the advanced scientific knowledge during the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
According to Sambhaji Raje, the instrument features carvings, including inscriptions and illustrations resembling two animals—possibly a tortoise and a snake—depicting directions. The terms “mukh” (head) and “poonchh” (tail) are inscribed, possibly indicating north and south. This discovery strengthens historical evidence that the construction of Raigad Fort was carried out with precise scientific and astronomical planning.
Experts believe this valuable artifact opens new opportunities for historical and archaeological research, offering deeper insights into the Maratha empire’s scientific advancements.
