The Rohtasgarh Fort, commonly termed as the Rotas Fort is remembered in history as one of the most ancient forts in India. It is located in a small town, Rotas in Bihar. The fort was built by Shri Harishchandra and named after his son, Rohitasva. Constructed over a plateau, atop a hill with steep rising mountains, this fort has a strategic position.
Towards the north-eastern side of this fort are located ruins of two temples, of which one is identified as a temple of Lord Shiva. In this print by Thomas Daniell, the temple on a high Jagati (platform) is seen amidst thick green trees in the background. A conical shikhara (rooftop) balances focus on three other elements – the mandapa (hall), maha mandapa (large-hall) and the garbhagriha (sanctum).
The lines are finely engraved by Thomas Daniell which is reflective of his attention to detail. Tall spires of the shikhara lay in communion with the pillared verandas of the mandapa and mahamandapa, reached through a flight of steps. Two persons are seen seated on one side of the stairs of the temple providing a naturalistic appeal to this print.
