qila

Qila is a term used in many South Asian languages to refer to a fort or fortress. It appears in Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi and related languages and is often part of the names of historic defensive structures.

The word derives from Persian qala(h), meaning fortification or fortress, and is transliterated in various ways as qila, qala or kale. In everyday usage, the form qila is common in Indian and Pakistani place names and literature.

Historically, qalas were built and maintained by rulers across the Indian subcontinent as military strongholds, administrative centers, and symbols of power. They typically featured thick walls, bastions, gates, and water supplies, often sited on advantageous terrain such as hilltops or riverbanks. Fortifications dated from different periods, including the Mughal and Rajput eras, reflect a range of architectural styles and defensive technologies.

Notable examples associated with the term include Lal Qila, the Red Fort in Delhi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site begun in the 17th century under Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Another well-known fort is Qila Mubarak in Bathinda, Punjab, a large historic fort complex with layers added over time. In broader usage, many other forts throughout India, Pakistan and neighboring regions are referred to as qila in local speech and tourism materials, illustrating the enduring association between the word and fortified structures.