in the medieval period, forts carried much significance. with a firm hold over a fort, one could defend as well as control the surrounding area and could rule the land. in case of an enemy’s invasion, it was possible to protect the people taking shelter in the fort. the forts situated within the jagir of shivaji maharaj were not under his control but were under the control of adilshah. therefore an attempt to capture the forts meant to challenge the adilshahi power. shivaji maharaj decided to acquire the forts that were within his jagir. he captured the forts of murumbdev (rajgad), torna, kondhana, purandar and laid the foundation of the swaraj. shivaji maharaj was steadily but cautiously aiming at extending and consolidating his power. those sardars who appreciated his aim were brought to his side, but some sardars in the adilshahi opposed him. it was necessary to bring them under control to found the swaraj.