Divaale Koliwada boys build Diwali mud fort from red soil and stone

Priyansh Patil and Parin Patil have turned red soil, stones, toy soldiers and cannons into a miniature fort in Divaale Koliwada for Diwali.

Their model has fortified walls, bastions and gateways, along with miniature Mavlas. Residents have visited the display and praised the children’s effort to continue the festive practice of building mud forts.

For many families, the Diwali tradition introduces children to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Swarajya and the design of Maharashtra’s hill forts. The boys built their version in an urban area where open space for such activities is becoming harder to find.

Praful Patil said the project was encouraging as children spend more time with phones and digital entertainment. “Their effort reflects an enduring bond with our cultural heritage,” he said.

The handmade model stands in Divaale Koliwada with its soil-built walls, gateways, toy soldiers and cannons.