Diwali in Pune: Children and Families Celebrate History with Miniature Forts
Pune, 19th October 2025: This Diwali, Pune’s streets and homes were not the only places to sparkle with light and joy — miniature forts built by children, families, and community groups transformed the city into a celebration of creativity and cultural pride.
The annual Killa (Fort) Making Competition, organised by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), continues to be one of the city’s most cherished Diwali traditions, celebrating Maharashtra’s fort heritage and the enduring legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Recreating History with Clay and Creativity
Held under the PMC’s Garden Department and Tree Authority, the competition invited participants to recreate historic forts such as Sinhagad, Rajgad, Shivneri, Torna, Panhala, and more, using eco-friendly materials like clay, mud, and stones.
The initiative seeks to combine creativity, teamwork, and historical learning, keeping alive a centuries-old tradition where children would build mud forts during Diwali, inspired by tales of Shivaji Maharaj’s valour.
“In today’s urban landscape, this hands-on tradition offers children a rare opportunity to engage with history while enjoying a tactile, creative experience,” said a PMC official.
Record Participation and Lively Exhibitions
This year, the competition saw one of its largest turnouts in recent years, with entries from schools, housing societies, and individual enthusiasts across Pune. The exhibition area at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Udyan was transformed into a vibrant display of miniature forts, each narrating stories of imagination, dedication, and collective effort.
Ajinkyatara and Bankot Killa Steal the Show
The top honours went to the Ajinkyatara and Bankot Killa, recognised for their historical accuracy, scale, and storytelling. The winning creations were built by 18 children from Grades 1 to 9, representing multiple schools across Pune.
Tanush Lalwani (13) and Avaneesh Shinde (14), members of the winning team, said, “The competition is not just about winning. It’s about parents, friends, and children coming together to build something that connects us to our roots.”
Officials praised the enthusiasm and creativity of participants, highlighting the use of sustainable materials and the value of research-based construction in nurturing young minds.
Heritage Lives On in Communities
As Diwali lights fade and the clay settles, the miniature forts stand as a testament to Pune’s living heritage, showing that cultural traditions thrive not just in museums, but in the hands and hearts of communities.
Through events like these, Punekars are keeping history alive — brick by brick, story by story.
