Hiroji Indulkar

Hiroji Indulkar was a 17th-century architect under the Maratha king Shivaji. He is credited with building Raigad, the second capital of the Maratha Empire, and the sea fort of Sindhudurg. He was also entrusted with the construction of fort Pratapgad along with Moropant Pingle.

Life The earlier life of Hiroji is uncertain. Some works by him are known. Such as in 1656, Hiroji and Moropant were entrusted with the construction of the Pratapgad fort by Shivaji. A transaction record from 1686 mentions a transaction of 17 Hons under the guarantee of Hiroji Indulkar.

Legacy It is said that when Shivaji saw the fort of Raigad built by Hiroji, he asked Hiroji what he wanted as a gift. Then Hiroji asked the King to gift him a small tile with the carving of his (Hiroji) name on it, accompanied by a condition, that the tile should be placed at the entrance of Jagadeeshwar Temple so that whenever the King visits the Temple, his foot would touch Hiroji's name and with that, the King will visit the temple daily. The tile mentioning the words "Seveche thayi tatpar, Hiroji Indulkar" (always ready for service, Hiroji Indulkar) can be seen at the footsteps of the entrance of Jagadeeshwar Temple.