The durgadi fort in kalyan, maharashtra, has become a contentious site due to ongoing communal and legal disputes over its ownership, as it holds historical and cultural significance for both hindu and muslim communities.
About Durgadi Fort
- Built In: Constructed during Shah Jahan’s rule and completed under Aurangzeb in 1694 AD.
- Location: Situated in Kalyan, Maharashtra, near the Ulhas River, approximately 50 km northeast of Mumbai.
- Built By: Originally built by the Adil Shahi Sultanate and later modified by the Marathas.
History of the Fort:
- Captured by Shivaji in 1654 and converted into a naval dock for Hindavi Swarajya.
- The Marathas constructed a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, renaming it Durgadi Killa.
- It changed hands multiple times between the Mughals and Marathas.
- During British rule, its materials were repurposed for constructing the Kalyan and Thane piers.
Architectural Features:
- Covers an area of 70 acres on elevated terrain.
- Key features include an Idgah (prayer wall), a mosque, a deep stone well, and a small Durga temple.
- The Marathas added a gate and garden to improve accessibility.
