Teliagarhi

Summary

‘Teliagarhi’ explores the historical significance of the fort and mountain pass of Teliagarhi in eastern India, tracing its role from early medieval times to the Mughal period. Using chronicles, travellers’ accounts and local traditions, the author shows that Teliagarhi served as a strategic gateway between the plains of Bengal and the highlands of Bihar. The narrative begins with legends linking the site to the Pala and Sena dynasties and then examines firm historical evidence: in the 13th century Bakhtiyar Khilji captured Teliagarhi while invading Bengal, demonstrating its importance for controlling access to the region. During Sher Shah Suri’s campaigns against the Mughals, fierce battles took place at Teliagarhi and the neighbouring pass of Sakrigal, illustrating how the terrain could delay large armies. The article recounts Humayun’s attempts to retake Bengal through Teliagarhi and describes later conflicts, including the wars between Shah Shuja and Aurangzeb in the 17th century, where control of the pass again proved decisive. Drawing on archaeological surveys, the author also describes the fortifications and temples at Teliagarhi, noting their architectural features and the syncretic worship at local shrines. Throughout the article, the author argues that Teliagarhi’s enduring strategic value lay in its command of riverine and overland routes, making it a focal point in successive military campaigns. The study concludes with an assessment of the pass’s decline after the advent of railways but emphasises its continuing importance in local memory and regional identity.