Durgadi Fort Dispute in Maharashtra's Kalyan

Durgadi Fort Dispute in Maharashtra’s Kalyan

Learn about the Durgadi Fort dispute in Kalyan, Maharashtra, highlighting historical, cultural, and religious tensions surrounding this iconic site. Understand its roots, stakeholders' perspectives, and ongoing debates over heritage and community interests

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Recently The Kalyan civil court has ruled that Durgadi Fort is owned by the Maharashtra government, dismissing the claims of the Majlis-E-Mushawarat Trust.

About Durgadi Fort

It was constructed in the 16th century during the Adil Shahi Sultanate (Bijapur) and was later modified by the Marathas.
It is situated in Kalyan, Maharashtra, near the Ulhas River. During this time Kalyan was a trading port.
In 1760, after the Marathas captured Kalyan, they built a wooden temple dedicated to Durgadevi and renamed it Durgadi Killa.
After the British took control in 1818, the temple ceased to function, and by 1876, the image of the goddess was stolen.

Historical Background

Construction During the Adil Shahi Sultanate
Built in the 16th century under the Adil Shahi Sultanate (Bijapur), the fort was strategically positioned near the Ulhas River. Kalyan, at the time, served as a prominent trading port, adding to the fort’s strategic and economic importance.
Maratha Modifications
In 1760, the Marathas captured Kalyan and renamed the fort Durgadi Killa after constructing a wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Durga within its premises. This marked a cultural and spiritual transformation of the site under Maratha rule.

Decline During British Rule

The fort lost its prominence after the British took control of Kalyan in 1818. The temple within the fort ceased to function, and by 1876, the idol of Goddess Durga was stolen, marking the decline of its religious and cultural significance.

Geographical Significance

Located in Kalyan, Maharashtra, near the Ulhas River, Durgadi Fort was a key strategic site due to its proximity to the river, which facilitated trade during the medieval period.

Cultural and Historical Importance

Durgadi Fort symbolizes Maharashtra’s layered history, reflecting the architectural and spiritual contributions of the Adil Shahi Sultanate, the Marathas, and later British influences.

Preservation and Heritage

The court’s recent decision ensures that Durgadi Fort remains a protected monument under government ownership. Its preservation safeguards an important piece of Maharashtra’s cultural and historical legacy, emphasizing its role in shaping regional history.