Pune: A long-standing misconception that Songiri Fort in Pen Taluka is the same as Mirgad has been debunked by new historical research.
According to Modi-script documents found in the Peshwa archives at Pune, Songiri and Mirgad are two distinct forts with different historical and geographical identities. This discovery was made by historian Raj Memane, whose in-depth research has brought this fact to light.
Memane’s findings reveal that Mirgad is actually Mruggad, also known as the then Sarasgad, located in Pali Taluka. Songiri Fort, on the other hand, was historically part of Avchitgad Taluka and is now within Pen Taluka.
The differences in their historical and current talukas further confirm that these are two separate forts. Memane presented his research at a recent session held at the Bharatiya Vichar Sadhana auditorium, attended by historians and descendants of notable historical figures.
The earliest mentions of both forts date back to 1739. Between 1739 and 1792, the forts were abandoned, only to be restored in 1793 due to the strategic necessity brought about by disturbances from the Siddis of Janjira. This reconstruction was ordered by the Peshwas, as documented in the Peshwa archives.
Memane also uncovered details of a battle in 1780 at Malanggad, where the Marathas, under the leadership of Bahirji Naik Pawar, defended the fort from the British during a monsoon siege. His bravery resulted in significant British casualties, forcing their retreat.
Separate documents for Songiri and Mirgad have been discovered in the Peshwa archives, disproving the earlier belief that the two forts were the same. Memane’s research conclusively establishes that Songiri and Mirgad are distinct forts.
