Chaubara, also spelt Choubara, is a historic watchtower located in Bidar, in the Indian state of Karnataka.[1] It is listed as a state protected monument.[2]
History
The tower dates back to the Bahmani period. It was probably built by Ahmad Shah, along with other fortifications of the city. It seems to have been used as a watchtower, as it offers a view of the entire plateau and lowlands around it for several miles. It might also have been used as a central tribunal for punishments of criminals, and promulgation of royal decrees.[3]
During the British period, a police station was built adjoining the tower on its northern side. However, it was removed upon the recommendations of the archaeological department.[4]
Description
It is situated at the intersection of the two main streets of Bidar, which run from north to south, and east to west. It is a cylindrical tower, tapering upwards, and built entirely out of black trap masonry laid in lime. It is about Template:Convert tall, thus commanding a view of the entire plateau and the lowlands surrounding it, far beyond the town.[4]
The tower has a circular base, measuring about Template:Convert in perimeter, and having a height of about Template:Convert. Arched niches are built into the base along its entire circumference, which may have been occupied by guards or may have been intended for pedestrians to take shelter in.[4]
An entrance to the base is provided on the eastern side. From there, a staircase leads to the top of the base. On this level, in the northern side, is a door which leads to a winding staircase that ascends to the top of the tower. This staircase comprises eighty steps. The tower has four rectangular openings to let in light and air. A parapet about Template:Convert tall rises above the summit.[4]
References
- ↑ Photo Essay: The majestic ruins of Bidar under a beautiful blue sky. The News Minute(2015-07-15). Retrieved 2023-11-26.
- ↑ Protected Monuments in Karnataka. Archeological Survey of India.
- ↑ Annual Report of the Archaeological Department of His Exalted Highness The Nizam's Dominions{{#if:Yazdani|, Yazdani}. Baptist Mission Press(1933)
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 Bidar, Its History and Monuments{{#if:Yazdani|, Yazdani}. Oxford University Press(1947)