| Ambedkar
Bhavan |
Dr.
Babasaheb Ambedkar Cultural Center was created
in the year 2000 and it was inaugurated by the
Hon. Chief Minister of Maharashtra State on
1.4.2000. The most important part of the Center
is its Exhibition Gallery. This gallery holds an
exhibition on the life of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Photographs of significant events in the life of
Dr. Ambedkar are on view here. For eg. the Pune
Pact, Round Table Conference, as Minister of
Law, adoption of Buddism, Parinirvan etc.
In one corner is a replica of the difficult
circumstances through which Matoshree Ramabai
Ambedkar survived during her marriage to Dr.
Ambedkar. |
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| Bhagwan
Buddha being the guru of Dr. Ambedkar, several
metallic icons of Buddha in various forms have
also been exhibited in showcases. Similarly,
statues of Buddha from Kolkata, carved in stone,
are also included in the exhibition. These
various metallic forms of Buddha are of profound
spiritual significance.
Photographs, write-ups, badges, symbols of
honor, medals, uniforms which signify the
sacrifices of the Mahar regiment, formed by Dr.
Ambedkar in 1940, in defending the nation are
displayed here.
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution
written in bronze letters in Hindi, Marathi and
English is also included in the exhibition.
A replica of the Chaityabhumi, the monument
where his Parinirvan occurred is also a part of
the exhibition.
A few personal articles used by Dr. Ambedkar
are also displayed in the exhibition. |
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| Savarkar Memorial
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Address: Deccan Gymkhana, Karve Road ,
near Yashwantrao Chavan two-wheeler bridge. |
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Swatantryaveer Savarkar
had studied at the Furgusson College in Pune. He
was admitted to the first year on 24 th June
1902. It was the period when Lokmanya Tilak had
initiated an anti-British campaign through his
four-point programme of Swadeshi(made in India),
Swabhasha(Indian language), Swashikshan(Indian
Education) and Bahishkar(boycott). The partition
of Bengal was also declared in 1905. Hence, a
number of anti-British campaigns had taken root
at that time.
Swantantryaveer Savarkar
had set on fire foreign-made clothes, on the
banks of Mutha at the site of the memorial, on
Dassera, 8 th October 1905, when he was still a
student. |
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To add to the
importance of the event, Lokmanya Tilak,
S.M.Paranjape of "Kaal" made excellent
speeches at the site. This event holds great
value in the history of Independence.
To preserve the
memories of this event, it has been depicted
through a mural on the walls of the memorial
as follows: Clothes set on fire, a large
crowd surrounding it, Swatantryaveer
Savarkar, Lokmanya Tilak, S.M.Paranjape are
at the center. In the background is a
half-statue of Savarkar, wearing a topi(cap),
in his student days and in front of the
statue is a blazing torch. There is a
special kind of fountain erected in front of
the memorial by Engineer Sanjeev Naik. An 88
sq.ft. rectangular tank is fitted with 200
water jets and orange and red light bulbs to
create an effect of a burning fire. The
state-of -the- art nozzle technology has
been used in this fountain. This creates an
effect of rising flames being thrown up
through jets of water. During day- time it
looks like any other fountain but at night
it resembles blazing fire.
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| Jog Bird
Park |
| This birds' paradise is
indeed the Studio and Orchestra in Nature,
vibrant with the music of birds. You will get an
opportunity to watch with pleasure and study the
behavior - patterns and habits if the rare
species of birds like Macaw, Lorykeets etc.
bought from far-off places like Australia,
Singapore etc. The bird park will enable the
bird-lovers to study systematically and in
details, the food habits, the likes and
dislikes, the native places and the span of life
of these birds along with other informative
items. It will satisfy your curiosity and serve
as an appetizer for further studies. It will
rekindle your interest in birds. It will also
help you appreciate special features of
different birds and will enable you to endear
yourselves to your bird friends. |
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| Pune University
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Pune University was
established on 10 th February,1949. The
university campus has an area of 411 acres.
Different species of trees are found here. Dal
Bargia is a species imported from Africa. The
characteristic of this species is that it
doesn't grow beyond 15 feet. They grow shoots
from below into the ground which helps them
survive the severe heat of the summers. In fact
they flower with the pre-monsoon showers. The
flowers are tiny and fragrant. Due to the
verdant atmosphere, it is frequented by a number
of bird-watchers.
The main building of the University is built
in the Italian gothic style. Its construction
began in 1864 and was completed in 1871.
Well-manicured lawns surround the main building.
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The convocation ceremony is held on these
lawns. There are fountains below these
lawns. The building has some special
features of its own. It was built as a
palace for the Governor of Bombay. The
Governor used this as his monsoon residence.
The different halls reflect their purpose as
used in those days. The building has two
porches. The first porch opens into the
Darbar Hall, now known as the "Dnyaneshwar
Sabhagriha". The front part holds male and
female statues gifted by His Highness of
Aundh. The Governer used this hall for
meetings with high ranking citizens like the
Kings, Sardars, Raosaheb, Raobahadur, etc.
The chandeliers in this hall are much talked
about. The floors were once covered with
rich Persian carpets. Above, there is
viewing gallery for women. This hall has
wooden flooring.
Beyond this hall, we find the marble
hall. This was used for hosting banquets and
receptions. This spacious hall is a
characteristic feature of this building.
Next to it, is today's Shivaji Sabhagriha.
Here, there are oil-paintings of the
Governor mounted in carved wooden frames.
These oils are considered masterpieces.
There is one of Shivaji Maharaj too.
The hall next to it has fireplaces
installed in it. It is now known as the
Ramdas Hall. On entering the building
through the other porch we come across an
icon of Goddess Sarawati placed on an old
carved table. Here, we find the oil-painting
of the first Vice-Chancellor of Pune
University, Shri Mukund Ramrao Jaykar. We
also find ancient arms and ammunition and
the publications of the University. Beyond
is the GadgeMaharaj Sabhagriha.
The upper story held the bedrooms and
other rooms of the Governor. Another special
feature of this building is its 100 foot
tall tower, built in red stone. It holds the
flag staff. The flag is hoisted here on the
Foundation Day of the University. There is a
beautiful garden in the front with oak trees
over 150 years old. The University has
various teaching and research departments
like Physics, Chemistry, Computers,
Electronics, Botany, Zoology, Microbiology
as well as English, Sanskrit, Marathi,
Hindi, French, German, Japanese and others
like Sociology, Political Science,
Economics, Anthropology, Psychology, Law
etc. There are 253 colleges and 129 research
institutes affiliated to the University. The
Jaykar Library of the University is the
largest library in Pune. It holds nearly 4 ½
lakh volumes. Pune University has a
tradition of renowned Vice-Chancellors like
Dr. Jaykar, Wrangler R.P. Paranjpe,
D.G.Karve, Mahamahopadhyay D.V.Potdar,
N.V.Gadgil, D.R. Gadgil, Pataskar, Dr. B.P.
Apte, Wrangler G.S. Mahajani, Prof.
Dabholkar, Dr. Ram Takawale, Dr. V.G. Bhide,
Dr. Shreedhar Gupte, Dr. Vasant Govarikar,
Dr. Arun Nigvekar, Dr. Kolaskar. The Campus
has Institutions like C-DAC, BioInformatics,
National Center for Cell Science, Science
Technology Park, UGC office. The famous
IUUCA started by Dr. Jayant Narlikar is also
situated here. Beyond, we find the Botanical
Garden and the Spicer Memorial College.
Outside the University, there is a
junction of 5 roads. One leads to the N.C.L.
at Pashan, one to Shivajinagar, one to
Balewadi. The road leading to Aundh has the
Rajbhavan which is the residence of the
Governor. |
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| Chaturshingi Temple
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There is a
hillock at about 5 km. to the north of Pune. The
temple of Goddess Chatushrungi is situated here.
There is a legend behind the establishment of
this temple. It says: There was a high-ranking
citizen of Pune named Durlabhsheth. He was a
regular pilgrim of the Saptashrungi temple
situated on a hill in Nashik. However, as he
grew older, he found it difficult to continue
this annual pilgrimage. He had a vision of the
Goddess in his dreams who promised him to come
to a hill in Pune for him.
Acting on this divine message, Durlabhshetji
constructed this temple in 1786. The temple is
built in picturesque surroundings by chiseling
the stones in the hill. |
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steps built in stone to approach the temple. The
temple has two entrances. There is a huge
assembly hall around the temple. During Navratri
festival, in the month of Ashwin of the Hindu
calendar, Yagvidhi (ritual of the holy fire) is
conducted in this assembly hall.
The temple has a beautiful dome at the top.
For generations, a family called Angal, looks
after the management of the temple. Since the
last 10-15 years, the surrounding area of the
temple is being developed. Lots of new trees
have been planted in this process. A new
approach road for slow climbers has been built.
There are benches installed for resting. A huge
entrance door has been built which first leads
to the icon of Lord Ganesha, which one is
supposed to visit prior to the Goddess. There is
a big fair during the Navratri festival. Visits
by people all over the city continue through the
day and night. One gets a birds's eye view of
Pune city from the hillock. Worshippers in large
numbers visit the temple on Tuesdays and
Fridays. |
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| Ambedkar Library |
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Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was the architect of
the Indian Constitution. This museum
contains the urn with his ashes and other
articles. The building is built like a "Stoopa"
described in Buddhism. The chair which Dr.
Ambedkar had used while drafting the
Constitution, his easychair, footwear,
clothes, fur cap, gardening shears, cases
used in his travel abroad are preserved here
besides articles like his violin, dining
table, watch, the bed on which he breathed
his last, stationery, his handwriting, books
etc. The BharatRatna Award is also
preserved. There is a photo-gallery above.
Pictures of important events of his life are
displayed here with titles. This exhibition
helps us to have a glimpse of the great work
done by this legendary Indian figure. The
brochure about the museum costs Rs. 10/- and
a memento of Dr. Ambedkar, his laminated
photograph, is available for Rs. 15/-.
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a renowned educational institution in Pune. The
institution has lodging facilities for foreign
students and it also assists them in their
admissions in educational institutes in Pune.
Behind, we find a lovely hillock with a Hanuman
temple and picturesque surrounding and a bird's
eye view of Pune city. This is a place to visit
at leisure. Further we have the "Balbharati"
where curricular text books for school students
are published. Next, on the right are buildings
like Bhandarkar Institute, Law College, Film and
Television Institute, National Film Archives,
Dr. Jaykar's bungalow, etc. On the road to the
left, are institutions like the Bal Chitravani
and the Agharkar Research Institute. In the same
vicinity, we find the two places where
P.L.Deshpande lived and died, the Malti-Madhav
Building and Dr. Prayag Hosptial. This is the
clean and beautiful area of Pune. Children from
most of the families residing here, have settled
abroad.?? We cross the Sambhaji Bridge from
here. This was earlier known as the Lakdi Pool.
In 1761, the army of the Peshwas which returned
to Pune after their defeat in the battle of
Panipat, had crossed this bridge home. In 1961,
during the Panshet floods, the water levels had
reached 8 to 10 ft. above this bridge. Next, we
come to Tilak Road. Alka Theater as well as the
Head Office of the Bharati Vidyapeeth is found
in this square. We pass the Maharashtra Mandal,
Maharashtra Sahitya Parishad, Tilak Smarak
Mandir, S.P.College, Grahak Peth etc. before
finally reaching the Saras Baug. |
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| Kesariwada |
| On 22 nd
January 1999, a museum depicting pictures on the
life and work of Lokmanya Tilak, was established
at Tilak Wada (568, Narayan Peth, Kesari
Office). The museum also contains articles of
his personal use like a lamp, table, clothes and
pictures of his colleagues. The manuscript of "Geeta
Rahasya", the volume he authored at Mandalay is
also preserved here. A number of letters, awards
also can be found on display. Entry is free and
the time for visit is from 10-1 in the morning
and 3-6 in the evening on all days. |
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Tilak Wada:
This is Lokmanya Tilak's residence at 568,
Narayan Peth, Pune-30. Kesari, a daily newspaper
of more than a 100 years is published from here.
Tilak has left a lasting impression on the life
of Pune. The Tilak Museum is aptly created to
reflect this.
Lokmanya Tilak Memorial- Museum
Tilak Wada hosts the museum containing pictures
of his life and work, his colleagues and
articles of his personal use like a lamp, table,
clothes, etc. The manuscript of "Geeta Rahasya",
the volume he authored at Mandalay is also
preserved here. A number of letters, awards also
can be found on display. Entry is free to all.
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| Shaniwarwada |
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Shaniwarwada is a
monument of glory for Pune. It is relic from the
prosperous past. It was the Peshwe's residence.
It was from here that the Peshwas directed the
development of the Maratha Empire. They
demonstrated the power of the Marathas to the
Moghuls in Delhi, the Nizam and the British.
This monument was constructed by the great
Thorale(Senior) Bajirao Peshwe (1710-1740). The
construction began on 10 th January 1730 and was
completed on 17 th January 1732. It cost Rs.
16,120 at that time. The following generations
of Peshwas added several palaces and other
buildings to the campus. |
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The outer wall surrounding the Shaniwarwada
was also constructed later. It is almost
square in shape built over an area of 6 ¼
acres. The North-South length is 184 yards
while the East-West width is 164 yards.
The Wada has 5 entrances. The main
entrance is known as the 'Delhi Darwaja'.
You stand facing this entrance. It is 21
feet high and 14 feet wide. There are 144
iron stakes on the doors. The enemy had to
use elephants to break open these doors. The
iron stakes have been fitted at a distance
of 6-7 feet for protection. It has a
sub-entrance since the huge doors are opened
only occasionally.
There is a huge horizontal wooden plank
fitted behind the door to avoid breaking.
There is an immediate turn to the right on
entering to prevent direct entry of the
enemy. You can reach the "Nagakhana"(place
for giant drums) on climbing a flight of
stairs. The flag staff is placed here. The
surrounding wall of the Wada is 33 feet
high. Its width is 18 feet at the ground
level and 11 feet at the top. There are
steps within the wall to reach its top. The
lower 10 /18 feet of the wall is constructed
in stone. It is topped by brickwork and the
structure is quite strong.
Next to the Delhi Darwaja is the "Mastani
Darwaja." It was used by Bajirao's wife
Mastani and her sons. The "Khidki Darwaja"
beyond it, was reserved for guests. Entities
like the British delegates and senior
officers of the army used this entrance. In
the eastern corner is the "Ganesh Darwaja".
There is a temple of Lord Ganesha next to
this entrance. The womenfolk of the Peshwas
used this entrance for visiting the Kasba
Ganesh temple. To the south is the "Narayan
Darwaja". The body of the murdered Peshwa -
Narayanrao was carried through this
entrance. There is no entrance on the
western side, but there are steps in the
wall to reach over the wall. There were 9
observation posts on the wall. Each post was
manned round the clock. There are windows in
the walls. They were used for firing on the
enemy. In 1828, a fire had broken in the
Wada.
The platforms in the halls of the palaces
are the only remains of the past, inside the
Wada today. And one more piece that is
intact is the fountain erected by Sawai
Madavrao - the "Hazari(thousand)
Karanja(Fountain)". The fountain ejected a
thousand jets of water at a time. It was the
same fountain which he jumped on and
committed suicide. The Wada had more than 40
halls. The most beautiful was the Ganesh
Mahal. A colored picture depicting a full
court in the Ganesh Mahal, and a British
resident offering gifts to Sawai Madhavrao,
is still in existence. A copy of this
picture is with historian Ninad Bedekar. It
is also found with the Indian Historical
Research Society. (Bharatiya Itihaas
Sanshodhan Mandal)
Thorale Bajirao, Nanasaheb Peshwe,
Madhavrao, Narayanrao, Raghunathrao, Sawai
Madhavrao and lastly Bajirao the Second,
were the generations of Peshwas who lived
here.
On 17 th November 1897, the Union Jack
was hoisted on the Shaniwarwada. After
Independence, now the national flag is
hoisted on it. Leaders like Swantantryaveer
Savarkar orated before the Shaniwarwada. The
Wada has seen the movement for Unified
Maharashtra, freedom movement of Goa,
struggle against Emergency Rule and many
other felicitations too. After bearing
witness to numerous political, cultural and
religious events, the Wada still continues
to inspire nationalism in the future
generations.
There is a light and sound show called "Gatha
Chhatrapatinchya Peshwyanchi" (the saga of
the Chhatrapati's(Crowned King's) Peshwe"
every evening between 7 to 8 and 8.15 to
9.15 at the Shaniwarwada. The ticket charges
are Rs. 25/- |
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| Lalmahal |
| The army of
the Adilshah of Vijapur destroyed the city of
Pune in 1630. Houses were burnt down, people
were murdered. It is said that the city was
razed to the ground, using a donkey-driven
plough. After this in 1630, Dadoji Konddeo
entered Pune with 6 year old Shivaji and Rajmata
Jijabai. He bought land from Zambre Patil and
constructed a Wada. The foundation was 52.5 feet
by 82.5 feet. The height of the Wada was 30.5
feet. Besides this, there were many basements of
about 13.5 feet deep. There were fountains in
the square. To the west of the fountains was a
spacious verandah. The verandah was almost like
a mini-court. This was how the LalMahal was
constructed. Shivaji and Rajmata Jijabai lived
here. They could be visiting the Kasba Ganesh
Temple in the vicinity. |
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| It was in
this Lal Mahal that Shivaji and Jijabai planned
to rejuvenate Pune, and set about it by
ploughing the land with a golden plough. On 16
th May 1640 in Pune, Shivaji was married to
Saibai, daughter of Naik-Nimbalkar of Phaltan
and brought the new bride to Lal Mahal.
Shivaji's octagonal seal was created in the
Lal Mahal. Around 1646-47, Shivajiraje shifted
residence to Rajgad. After this, Lal Mahal was
used as an office for the administration of
Pune. Between 1660-63, the LalMahal was occupied
by Shahistekhan. On 6 th April 1663, Shivajiraje
attacked the Lal Mahal. In the fight that
ensued, Shahistekhan lost three of his fingers.
55 men from his army were killed including his
son Abul Fattehkhan. Shahistekhan left LalMahal
and Pune on 8 th April 1663. If Pune is
considered the first capital of Swaraj, then
LalMahal was the first royal residence. In the
period that followed, the Lal Mahal fell into
ruins. Due to the various attacks on Pune, the
LalMahal was razed to the ground.
It is said that during the construction of
the Shaniwarwada, some soil and stones of the
LalMahal were used for luck. In 1734-35, a few
houses were constructed on the land of the
LalMahal and given for use to Ranoji Shinde and
Ramchandraji. The records in the offices of the
Peshwas mention that Lal Mahal was used for
arranging feasts for the Brahmins during the
thread-ceremony of Sadoba, son of Chimajiappa.
The current LalMahal is built only on a part of
the land of the original Lal Mahal. The new
LalMahal was not rebuilt in the same fashion as
the original one. Much information is not found
about the area and structure of the original
LalMahal. The current LalMahal is rebuilt by the
PMC to preserve the memories of the past. Hence,
it does not have the fountains or the window
through which Shahistekhan made his exit. The
PMC started construction of the current LalMahal
in 1984 and completed it on 14.5.1988. The
current Lal Mahal is a memorial holding a
collection of large size oil-paintings based on
the significant events in the life of Shivaji, a
statue of Rajmata Jijabai, a carving depicting
Shivaji using a gold plough along with Dadoji
Konddeo and Jijabai, a fiber model of Raigad
with horsemen etc., a huge map of Maharashtra
indicating the forts of Shivaji, etc. It was
inaugurated on 17 th May 2000.
The highlights in the life of Shivaji have
been depicted by Pratap Rao Mulik in one hall.
His military training, the oath of Swaraj, his
love of justice, the struggle with Afzalkhan,
attack on Shahistekhan, looting Surat, the Pact
of Purandar, exile in Agra, advice to Chhatrasal
Bundela, the crowning ceremony etc. This hall
was inaugurated on 15 th January 1999.
A light and sound show depicting the event of
Shahistekhan losing his fingers is proposed for
the future. Similarly, a museum displaying
articles of Shivaji's era is also being planned.
Currently, the LalMahal Shivachitrasrushti( the
paintings on Shivaji's life) is managed by an
organization called Yashasri Mahila Pratishthan.
Reference: Pune Nagar Sanshodhan Vritta (Pune
city research news) : Part I and Raja
Shivachhatrapati: Author: Babasaheb Purandare.
(Visiting hours: Morning- 9 to 1, Evening - 4-8.
Entrance fee charged) |
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| Dagdusheth Halvai
Ganapati |
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The 107 year old Shrimant
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganesh Festival is the
jewel in the crown of Maharashtra?s long
history of community Ganesh festival.
It is distinguished by
its endeavour to uphold Maharashtra?s
cultural heritage.This famous temple of Pune
is known as Dagdu Halwai Datta Mandir.
Devotees residing in Pune and around often
visit this temple and offer their prayers.
Everyday, Poojas are performed twice.
Huge mounds of coconuts
lie behind the pandal, these are offered to
the diety for fulfilling their desires. The
idol is bedecked with nearly tons of gold
and many precious stones.
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| Phule Wada |
Jotiba
Phule was a social reformer of the nineteenth
century. The Wada where he resided was declared
as a State protected memorial in 1972. On 10 th
December 1991, it was declared as a National
Memorial at the hands of Dr. Shankardayal
Sharma. The Wada contains four halls. The first
hall contains the photograph of Mahatma Phule,
his brief life history and an inscription of the
contents of his will.
The next three hall contain colored pictures
created by Vasant Athavale of Nagpur, on the
significant events of Phule's life. His
education, marriage, his handwriting,
photographs of the books he authored, and his
own picture have been displayed. |
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| Jotiba Phule
founded the Satyashodhak Samaj and was
felicitated by Major Candy. Through pictures of
various such events, we are apprised of the
social conditions prevailing in the nineteenth
century.
There is a well in the courtyard outside the
house. He opened it up for the untouchables of
that time. We can see this well here. His ashes
have been preserved by his wife Savitribai Phule
in the space outside the house. His statue has
been erected in this area. |
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| Kelkar Museum
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This is a matter of
pride not only for Pune but for the country. Dr.
Dinkar Gangadhar Kelkar (1896-1990) had, in his
life of 94 years, traveled all over the country
and collected about 20,000 articles which have
been divided into 40 sections. They have been
neatly displayed in 12 galleries across the 3
floors of the building. The building has an
elevator. Initially, Kelkar held an exhibition
of thousands of lamps that he had collected. It
was well-appreciated by the public. He then
created the museum. The museum has been named
after his son Raja Kelkar. He has been awarded
the prestigious D.Lit degree by the University
of Pune for his precious work.
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The museum is situated at a central place,
near Mandai(vegetable market), (1378,
Shukruwar Peth), in a lane off Bajirao Road.
It is open from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm. It
remains closed on the 15 th August, 26 th
January and on AnantChaturdashi day.
Charges: Adult: Rs. 15/-, Child: Rs. 5/- for
Indians
Adult: Rs. 200/-, Child: Rs. 50/- for
foreigners.
Galleries: One gallery
contains wooden carvings, sculptures, doors,
windows, etc. We find the five-faced icon of
Lord Hanuman from the 18 th century brought
from Tamilnadu, along with the icons of
Vishnu and Sun-god, from the 13 th and 16 th
century respectively. The second gallery has
the cosmetic accessories (combs, mirrors,
vermilion holders) and is called the Gujarat
Gallery. There are separate galleries for
Indian art, pots and pans, toys, clothes and
Paithanis( a special type of hand-woven
sari). Of special interest for many is the
Lamp section containing ancient bird-shaped
lamps, samais (tall lamps), Nepali lamps
etc. The Sun-god Lamp is the masterpiece. It
depicts 12 months, 7 days of the week, the
24 constellations and 12 zodiac signs
through corresponding number of horses.
Ancient Adkittas(Betel-nut cutters),
Paan(betel leaf) holders, and various metal
statues are on display. There are a variety
of ink-pots and pen-holders. There are
individual sections for arms and ammunition,
ivory doors and musical instruments. The
main attraction is the perfect replica of
the palace of Mastani, built by Bajirao
Peshwa, Senior, at Kothrud has been created
here.
Publications and Post-cards:
Booklets containing information
about the museum, color post cards (Rs.2/-
and greeting cards Rs. 7/-) are available
here. These can serve as perfect gifts for
friends. A new building for the museum is
being constructed at Bavdhan. |
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| Sarasbaug/Peshwepark |
| This marble
icon of Lord Ganesha has its trunk turned to the
right, which is said to be very auspicious, and
is situated in the lake at Sarabaug near Peshwe
Park. Its height is 2 feet and it is
four-handed, seated in a "Padmasana". In one
right hand he holds the "Parshu", the other is
resting on his lap. In one left hand is the "Modak"(a
sweet condiment), and other holds a "Farash" (an
axe like tool).
Shreemant Thorale(Senior) Madhavrao Peshwe,
an ardent worshipper of Lord Ganesha, had a
vision of the Lord in his dreams, befor he left
for the battle with Haider Ali. The Lord asked
him to rejuvenate the lake at the foot of
Parvati. He followed the Lord's wish. |
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| He dug up
the lake and had it reconstructed. After that
Sawai Madhavrao had a replica made of the right
-trunked "Chintamani'(Lord Ganesha) of Theur,
and got it ritually established in the Lake on
5/6/1784. However, the current icon is not the
same historic one.
Zoo of the Peshwe era: ..Mage Waloon
Pahatana(Looking back...) by M.P. Mangudkar
What is today known as the
"Pranisangrahalay"(Zoo) used to be called
"Shikarkhana"(hunting area) in the Peshwe
regime. Historical documents reveal that the
Shikarkhana came into existence during the early
Peshwe regime.
After the Maratha kingdom was established in
1674, the period upto 1720, was ridden with
instability, internal rifts and external
attacks. During this period, it had not been
possible to devote time for building of Parks
and zoos. Creation of such facilities requires
not only a stable administration but also
prosperity. In this context, the first zoos
could have come into being between 1720 to 1740,
during the reign of Senior Bajirao Peshwe.
Bajirao was a great warrior and also had a keen
aesthetic sense. This aspect of his personality
has been reflected in the way he led his life.
He created the first "Shikarkhana" in Pune. He
brought his pet birds from Satara to Pune. With
the growth of the Empire, the Shikarkhana too,
grew in its stature and beauty. Nanasaheb Peshwe
made valuable additions to the Shikarkhana. He
asked for Falcons from one of his Muslim
nobleman. The nobleman willingly complied and
gifted the Peshwe with some beautiful Falcons.
In his time, Nanasaheb Peshwe had appointed
Trimbak Sadashiv as the manager of the zoo. The
Manager too, received a gift of around 20
species of birds from one of his friends.
Kanoji Shinde was an officer on the fort of
Mahuli in Thane district. He sent a variety of
species of deer, peacocks and boars. Ranoji
Shinde, from Alegaon, Daund, provided pairs of
elegant pigeons. These animals and birds were
well looked after. Some deer had silver reins.
Jasmine oil was used for cats. In the times of
Nanasaheb Peshwe, the zoo had the following
officers:
After Nanasaheb, Sawai Madhavrao added to the
prosperity of the zoo. It grew to include lions,
rhinoceros, talking mynas, 7-8 Chandols, 10-12
pairs of peacocks, nearly 200 deer, black bucks,
4-5 Cheetahs and 700-800 rabbits. There were
around 20-30 tigers on Parvati. Mahadji Shinde
sent rhinoceroses, rams, ducks and fowl from the
North. All these animals were neatly preserved
on the Parvati.
In 1791, Major Price, a British man, had
visited Pune. He says, " The zoo of the Peshwas
is exemplary. Its animals are excellent.
Especially, one lion and rhinoceros are very
special."
In 1792, Sawai Madhavrao had invited, the
Resident of Pune, Sir Charles Mallet, to visit
the zoo. He has described it as follows:
As per the invitation I reached the
"Ramana"(square where the Peshwe sat). There was
a "Dhokla" (tent) in which I sat. The Peshwe
soon arrived. 4 black bucks were released. They
were being followed by horsemen in a semicircle.
The horsemen were waving red flags. As the black
bucks entered the tent, there was music. 3 of
the four black bucks entered the tent with
aplomb. There were two swings suspended on which
they sat. A third sat next to us on the carpet.
The dancers began performing before the black
bucks. The black buck next to us lay quietly
grazing. Just then, a timid looking fourth black
buck entered the tent and lay on the carpet. A
servant helped him on to the swing and rocked
him. Then they were garlanded and the show cam
to an end".
Mallet seemed to be a great admirer of the
animals in the zoo. He had mud icons made of
them and a picture which he preserved in his
collection.
The collection of historical "powadas"(inspirational
songs) edited by Y.N. Kelkar, has several
mentions of Sawai Madhavrao's love for animals.
Prabhakar Shahir(powada singer) has described
the large numbers of animals that were
maintained and ended his powada by praising the
Peshwe for having the prosperity to maintain
them.
Several other Powadas too describe the love
of the Peshwas towards animals. They liken it to
a father's love to his child.
Kelkar has discovered some letters of the
Peshwe regarding the zoo. They reveal a
heartfelt concern about animals. Peshwe wrote to
the manager of the zoo:
Phulrani: mini-train for children:
The mini train for children has been an
added attraction in the Peshwe Park. It runs on
the artificial hillock created on the right side
of the entrance. The Parks department of the PMC
has shown great imagination in creating this
mini train. Phulrani(Queen of flowers) soon
became popular amongst the children. Such a
train for children was the first of its kind in
India. Pune has been the pioneer in this area.
The train has a diesel engine and two coaches
for seating 16 children each. The railway tracks
spans a large circle passing through the
artificial hillock. The track has a tunnel,
signal, bridge etc. giving it an appearance of
the real life track. The whole construction cost
Rs. 25,000/-. The train was inaugurated in 1956
by Bharatratna Dr. Dhondo Keshav Karve. There
was a radio broadcast of the inauguration
ceremony. The specialty of this train is that
all its parts have been made in the Municipal
Workshop. |
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| Parvati |
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Parvati is the one of the most scenic
locations in Pune. It is situated at a
height of 2100 feet above sea level. The
temples on Parvati hill are the oldest
heritagestructures in Pune and reminiscent
of the Peshwa dynasty. It offers an aerial
view of the city and for the punekars, it is
a respite from the noise and pollution of
city life.
Parvati is the daily visiting place for a
number of citizens and for many people,
going to Parvati (103 steps) forms a part of
their daily exercise regimen. Being the
highest point in Pune and having
conveniently located observation points, the
beautiful panaromic view of Pune city
leaves visitors spellbound .
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| Parvati
gates open at 5.00 am and close at 8.00 pm. It
is said that at this spot the Peshwa ruler
Balaji Baji Rao watched the British defeat at
the Battle of Kirkee. There is one Devdeveshwar
temple on the hill and other temples of Lord
Kartikeya, Vishnu and Vitthal. Every temple has
a place in the history of the Maratha empire.
Located on this hill is an interesting museum
that commemorates the Peshwa rule. Near the
museum is situated the Samadhi Sthan of Shrimant
Nanasaheb Peshwa who took his last breath here.
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| Mahalaksmi Temple (Bagul
Park) |
| The ownership of the
Late Vasantrao Eknath Bagul Park is with the
PMC. The PMC has created many such Parks for the
benefit of the citizens. It is open from 6.00 to
11.00 am and 4.00 to 8.30 pm. The entry fees for
Adults and children are Re.0.50 and Re. 0.25
respectively.
The Park contains an excellent jogging track
of 450 meters. The PMC has developed 7-8 such
tracks in the city. There is a beautifully
manicured lawn and since 1998, there are grand
celebrations during the Navratri festival every
year. A sports complex has been developed here
in year 2000. There is also a temple of Goddess
Mahalakshmi in the Park. |
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| Rajiv Gandi Animal Zoo
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The Rajiv Gandhi zoo at Katraj has become
one of the first zoos in India to adopt
digital identification technology for its
furry and feathered inmates. Identifying an
animal in the wild, or even in the zoo, is
never too easy.
Located in Katraj, this snake park is home
to a number of snakes and other reptiles
like crocodiles. One can see Snakes of
diferent shapes and sizes in the park.
Information about snakes with pictures is
displayed in a library within the park. A
zoo has also been recently added, making it
an attractive tourist place, especially for
children.
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| Shinde Chatri |
| Shrimant
Mahadji Maharaj Shinde, the founder of the royal
Shinde dynasty, was the 5 th son of Shrimant
Ranojirao Maharaj Shinde. He left for his
heavenly abode on Wednesday, Magh Shuddha(first
fortnight) 13 1850, according to the Hindu
Calendar and February 13 th 1794 as per the
Christian calendar. His heroic deeds are the
golden pages of the history of India.
This Umbrella has been erected by Shrimant
Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia 1 st in 1965, and
also inaugurated by him on Jeshtha Shuddha 5,
Saturday, 1971(1913) as per the Hindu calendar.
In the vicinity of this monument is also the
Samadhi(final resting place) of Shrimant Mahadji
Maharaj. There is a temple of Lord Hanuman too,
nearby. Shrimant Madhavrao Maharaj Scindia 1 st
, built the temple in 1972 (1925) and the
religious establishment of the icon was done by
him in 1976 (1919). |
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Shreenath
(Marathi)
Shrimant Mahadji Maharaj Shinde, the founder of
the royal Shinde dynasty, left for his heavenly
abode at Wanowrie, on Wenesday, Magh Shuddha 13
1850, according to the Hindu Calendar. This
Umbrella has been erected by his great-great
grandson Shrimant Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia 1
st and inaugurated by him on Jeshtha Shuddha 5,
Saturday, 1972 as per the Hindu calendar.
Late Shrimant Ranoji Maharaj Shinde was the
founder of the royal Shinde dynasty. He had 5
children. The second was Shrimant Dattaji
Maharaj Shinde and the fifth was Shrimant
Mahadji Maharaj Shinde. He died on 13/2/1794 at
Wanowrie. His Samadhi is in the same vicinity.
Since he had no son, he adopted Late Shrimant
Daulatraoji Maharaj who was born on Kartik
Shuddha 7, 1780 and died on 21/3/1827. He had no
son and adopted Late Shrimant Jankojirao Maharaj
Shinde who was born on Ashwin Shuddha 14, 1816
and died on January 7, 1843. He too had no
children and adopted Late Jayajirao Maharaj
Shinde who was born on Magh,
Krishnapaksha(second fortnight) 5, 1834, and
died on 20/6/1886. His son was JiwajiMaharj
Shinde. His son was Late Shrimant Madhavrao
Maharaj Shinde, who died in an air crash on 30
th September 2001. His mother is Vijayaraje
Shinde. Jyotiraditya Maharaj Shinde is the son
of Late Madhavraoji Maharaj Shinde.
Contact Person: Shri Raghunathrao Yashwant
Bhosale
Survey no. 25, Wanowrie, Pune-40.
Telephone no: 26851502, 26852141.
- Late Shrimant Ranojirao Maharaj Shinde:
Founder of the royal Shinde dynasty
- Late Shrimant Dattajirao Maharaj Shinde
: 2 nd son of Late Shrimant Ranojirao
Maharaj Shinde
- Late Shrimant Mahadjirao Maharaj Shinde
: Founder of the royal Shinde dynasty.(two
founders?) Died: 13/2/ 1794
- Late Shrimant Daulatraoji Maharaj Shinde:
Adopted son of Shrimant Mahadjirao Maharaj
Shinde. Born: Kartik Shuddha 7, 1780 Death:
21/3/1827
- Shrimant Jankojirao Maharaj Shinde:
Adopted son of Shrimant Daulatraoji Maharaj
Shinde. Born Ashwin Shuddha 14, 1816, Died:
January 7, 1843.
- Late Shrimant Jayajirao Maharaj Shinde:
Adopted son of Shrimant Jankojirao Maharaj
Shinde Born: Magh, Krishnapaksha(second
fortnight) 5, 1834, Died : 20/6/1886.
- Late Shrimant Madhavrao Maharaj Shinde:
Son of Late Jayajirao Maharaj Shinde(Missing
from the above paragraph)
- Late Shrimant JiwajiMaharj Shinde: Son
of Late Shrimant Madhavrao Maharaj Shinde.
- Late Shrimant Madhavrao Maharaj Shinde:
Son of Late Shrimant JiwajiMaharj Shinde.
Born: 10/3/1945, Died: 30/9/2001
Memorial of Mahadji Shinde - Shinde
Chhatri(umbrella):
Mahadji Shinde was one of the main Sardars and
diplomat of the Maratha regime. He was revered
even by the courts of the Mughal Emperor of
Delhi. In 1785, the shrewd diplomacy of Nana
Phadnavis and the valor of Mahadji Shinde, had
established the supremacy of the Maratha regime
from Sutlej to Tungabhadra. In 1789, the army
platoons were trained with the help of the
French. There was an infantry of 30,000
soldiers, 500 cannons and 1 lakh cavalry.
Mahadji was fearless, courageous, diplomatic,
worshipper of Lord Krishna and also somewhat
educated. He was an excellent administrator too.
In those times, Ujjaini was the capital of the
Shinde kingdom and the army was based at
Gwalior. Later, he made Gwalior, the capital of
his kingdom. After he conquered the North, he
died due to typhoid, suddenly at Wanowrie on 12
th February, 1794, at the age of 67. His
memorial has been built in the form of an
umbrella. The building has two sections. The
small temple on the left is the "samadhi" of
Mahadji Shinde. It also has a Shivalinga (Lord
Shiva). There are also pictures of the eminent
members of the Shinde family, their heirs. Late
Vijayaraje Shinde and Late Madhavrao Shinde were
the descendants of Mahadji Shinde. This
two-storied building is considered an example of
architectural excellence. The designs and color
schemes used are beyond compare.
On the way to Wanowrie and from Wanowrie to
AgaKhan Palace, we come across the Camp area of
Pune. There are wide roads, several parks and
one-storey bungalows in this area. We can also
see high-rise buildings like Residence, Plaza,
Arcade etc. currently under construction. |
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| War Memorial |
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This memorial has been constructed through
Citizen Initiative as a tribute to those
soldiers and airman who laid down their
lives for defense of our freedom.
Engraved on the walls of this monument
are the names of their martyrs of
Maharashtra placed in the casket in a roll
of honor that records the names of service
man of all over India who made the
sacrifice. |
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| Tribal Memorial
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Address:
28, Queen's Garden, near Yerawada Bridge, Pune.
Tel: 26362071.
Established: 3 rd May 1962.
Entry: 10.30-5.30 on all days except Govt.
holidays and Sundays.
Entry fee: Rs. 3/-
Maharashtra has several tribes like the Bhil,
Gond, Korku, Katkari, Kolam, Warli, Thakur,
Mahadev Koli etc. The museum displays more than
2000 valuable articles which reflect their
ethnic and cultural beliefs and practices. The
collection is divided in 2 sections. |
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Section I:
- Handicrafts
- Household articles
- Cosmetics and jewellery
- Musical instruments
- Gods and Goddesses
- Dwellings and huts
- Tribal Environment
- Tools of agriculture
- Tools of hunting (bow and arrow)
Section II:
Galleries named Gondwan and Sahyadri. There is a
display of articles of cultural and ethnic
significance depicting the cultural practices of
tribals living in these parts. Handicraft
articles made by tribals are on sale here as
mementos. |
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| Osho Ashram |
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Acharya Rajneesh has created an Ashram at 4,
Koregaon Park in Pune. Acharya Rajneesh had
a stormy personality. His books, cassettes
of his orations are valuable and amount to
nearly 750 products. An exhibition of his
products is held every year. The Osho
Teertha is another valued work of
Rajneesh.(He was also known as Osho). He was
given a piece of land 900 meters long and
60-70 meters wide. A bund has been
constructed there and a park with
picturesque surroundings and waterfalls has
been created. Environmentalists must visit
this creation. ( Visiting time: 6-9 in the
morning and 3-6 in the afternoon).
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visit the Ashram twice during the day. 10-11 in
the morning and 2-3 in the afternoon. The fees
are Rs. 10/-. Tickets have to be purchased in
advance. In the visit one can see a video
recording of Rajneesh, the daily routine of the
Ashram, Gautam Buddha Meditation hall, the
gallery displaying the works of Rajneesh and his
Samadhi (final resting place). His books are
also available on sale. |
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| Aga Khan Palace |
| Agakhan
Palace is on the Pune-Nagar Road, in Yerawada
village, at a distance of 1-2 kms from the Bund
garden bridge. It is convenient to reach from
the Pune Railway Station.
Agakhan Palace:
This was a palace owned by the Khoja
Priest Prince Agakhan. It is spread over 19
acres of land. 7 acres of this land was donated
by him for the Gandhi National Memorial in 1969.
It is an example of architectural excellence.
There is a beautiful and well-maintained garden
surrounding it. |
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Significance of the National Memorial:
On 8 th August 1942, Mahatma Gandhi
gave the slogan of "Quit India" at the Congress
meeting at Gowalia Tank in Mumbai, and passed a
resolution asking the British to quit India and
make the country independent. After this,
Mahatma Gandhi was arrested and detained at the
AgaKhan Palace in Pune. His personal secretary
Mahadevbhai Desai also accompanied him. 2-4 days
after that, Kasturba Gandhi, wife of Mahatma
Gandhi called for a strike in Mumbai, due to
which she and her colleague Sushila Nair were
also brought to Agakhan Palace in detention.
Further, freedom fighters like Sarojini Naidu,
Chitnis Pyarelal, Dr. Guilder were also detained
here. Mahatma Gandhi was released on 6 th May,
1944. In the meantime, his secretary,
Mahadevbhai Desai suffered a heart attack and
passed away on 15 th August 1942. Kasturba or Ba,
passed away on 22 nd February 1944.
Samadhis(final resting places) of both these
personalities are built on the rear side of the
palace. Mahatma Gandhi never had his meals
before visiting these Samadhis.
There are 5 halls in the palace. The history
of the independence movement has been depicted
here through an exhibition of pictures. Articles
used by Mahatma Gandhi, his bed, desk,
Kasturba's saris and articles of clothing,
footwear etc. has been preserved here with care.
Some statues are also found here.
The first hall displays the pictures of
significant events in the history of
independence. There are also full statues of
Mahatma and Kasturba Gandhi. Mahatma Gandhi
nursed Kasturba Gandhi in her last illness.
There is a touching picture of Kasturba lying
with her head in the lap of Mahatma Gandhi.
The Gandhi National Memorial runs activities
like the Khadi and Village Industry Stores,
Mahadev Press, Sewing classes by National
Women's' Organization, a library and catalogue
of literature, horticulture etc. The place is
also lent for holding camps, discussion
sessions, conferences etc. The memorial is open
on all days from 9.00 to 5.30 excepting 4 days
of Diwali, Muharram, Dhulivandan and
Anantchaturdashi. The entry fee is Rs. 5/- for
Indians and $2 for foreigners. The visit to this
site gives us an insight into the sacrifices of
the freedom fighters and we bow to them in
humility and reverence.
Khadi and cottage industries products can be
purchased as mementos.
This is how we get acquainted with the
socio-cultural ethos of Pune through this
wondrous tour of Pune-Darshan |
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