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First published in 2001,
Heritage Sites of Maritime Maharashtra offers an in-depth exploration of 170 heritage sites located within five kilometers of Maharashtra's coast, showcasing its rich maritime tradition. From ancient ports like Sopara and Chaul to forts, temples, churches, mosques, and lighthouses, the book highlights the region's historical and cultural significance. It traces the impact of European powers, such as the Portuguese and English, on the coast's history. Enhanced with photographs, maps, and sketches, this work is invaluable for enthusiasts of India's maritime heritage and history.
List of contents
About Maritime History Society Dedication Foreword by Dr P. C. Alexander Acknowledgements List of Maps List of Photographs List of Figures 1. Introduction
2. The Geographical Portrait of the Maharashtra Coast
3. Historical Perspective
4. General Information about Heritage Sites
5. Sites in Upper Konkan
6. Sites in Central Konkan
7. Sites in Lower Konkan
8. Planning a Visit
Appendices
About the author
Dr M. S. Naravane (Wing Commander) Retired from the Indian Air Force in 1977 while commanding an Air Force station. He served at almost all types of units, including a tenure of 3 years as the Assistant Air Attache at the Indian Embassy at Paris and duty at Air Headquarters Operations Room during the 1965 war with Pakistan. After his retirement and after doing a variety of jobs in industry, including an assignment in Kenya, he returned to his first love Indian medieval history. A M. Sc and PhD followed and he started visiting historical sites in various parts of the country. A feature of this work was that he travelled alone on his scooter. For example, before writing about coastal forts he went along the entire Indian coastline, logging some 7800 kilometres and spending some 3 and a half months on the road.
About the Maritime History Society:The Maritime History Society (MHS), an academic initiative of the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy was established on 12 May 1978 by the late Vice Admiral MP Awati with a vision to promote the study of India's maritime history. MHS has grown into a leading research organisation dedicated to exploring the country's rich maritime heritage and naval legacy. As part of its academic mission, MHS undertakes a wide range of activities including publication of scholarly books, hosting seminars, lectures, workshops and curating maritime-themed museums, exhibitions and heritage projects including the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, Gujarat. The Society also maintains a well- curated gallery with over 2,000 artefacts, a reference library and digital presence featuring blogs and display of artefacts. Its collaboration with Talyor and Francis under the Routledge Revival series further extends its educational outreach. We hope that these publications will inspire a new generation of researchers and scholars, contributing to a deeper understanding of India's rich maritime past and naval legacy.
