Garhi

Garhi, a term with roots in South Asia, generally refers to a fortified village or a small fort. The specific form and function of a garhi could vary significantly depending on the region, historical period, and the purpose it served. In many instances, garhis were built by local chieftains, landlords, or wealthy individuals to protect their families, property, and the surrounding community from raids, invasions, or inter-village disputes.

These structures were typically characterized by thick walls, often made of mud brick, stone, or a combination of both. They might include bastions or watchtowers for better defense and observation. The layout of a garhi could range from a simple enclosure to a more complex structure with living quarters, storage areas, and sometimes even a small mosque or temple within its precincts. Access was usually controlled by a single, heavily guarded gate.

The prevalence of garhis was particularly notable in regions that experienced periods of political fragmentation or frequent conflict. They served as centers of local power and administration, offering a degree of security in often turbulent times. Over centuries, many garhis have fallen into disrepair, while others have been modernized or integrated into larger settlements. The term can also sometimes refer to a larger administrative district or a type of revenue settlement in historical contexts, although its primary meaning remains that of a defensive settlement.