What was the significance of a fort in medieval India? What were the strategic devices adopted in the construction of forts to confuse or defeat the enemy?

Building monumental forts was a regular feature in medieval times which often symbolised the seat of power of a king. When such a fort was captured by an attacking army the vanquished ruler either lost his complete power or his sovereignty. This was because he had to accept the suzerainty of the victorious king.
Commanding heights were utilised to great advantage to construct forts. These heights gave a good perspective of the region, strategic advantage for security, unfettered and unhindered space to make residential and official complexes while simultaneously creating a sense of awe in the people.
Chittorgarh bears the distinction of being the largest fort in Asia and was occupied for the longest length of time as the seat of power.

Topics: GS-I: Indian Architecture