Shaniwar Wada is located in Pune, Maharashtra, and is a historical fort that shows the rule and beauty of the Maratha Empire. It was Built in the 18th century and was the place where Peshwas, the leading ministers of the Maratha rulers, resided. When translated into English, the name “Shaniwar Wada” means “Saturday Fort.” It was named Saturday Fort because Peshwa Baji Rao 1 found it and kept the stone on Saturday in 1730.
The History of Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada was Constructed between 1730 and 1732 and served as the place where the peshwas ruled and lived, but the control was taken by the British East India Company in 1818 after the Third Anglo-Maratha War. The fort has seen many important events, including royal ceremonies and the assassination of Narayan Rao Peshwa in 1773. It is said that he cried for help, and those echoes of cries are still heard in the fort, leaving a haunted reputation of the fort.
Architectural Features
Shaniwar Wada is a significant and main example of Maratha architecture, which is beautifully influenced by Mughal and Persian styles. The fort was planned to be seven stories tall, but the plan wasn’t successful, and it was ultimately built with only a stone base due to local opposition. The remaining structure was made of bricks and was mostly destroyed in a fire in 1828
The fort is known for its big stone walls, which are about 5 meters high and 3 meters thick. There are five main gates, each with its significance and charm. The five gates are:
- The Dilli Darwaza is the most giant gate of all and faces north. It is covered with beautiful ancient writing or designs and has spikes to protect the fort against elephants.
- The Mastani Darwaja: It is also known as Alibahadur Darwaja. This gate was named after Mastani, the second wife of Peshwa Baji Rao 1. It is said that she used this gate to enter and leave the fort.
- Khidki Darwaja: The Khidki Nawaz was unique because it was designed like a window and used to observe the outside activities while staying inside the fort.
- The Ganesh Darwaja was named after the Hindu god Ganesha and was mainly used by the royal family women to visit the nearby Kasba Ganpati temple.
- The Narayan Darwaja is also known as Jambhuk Darwaza and is infamous and full of sorrows because the body of Peshwa Narayan Rao was taken out of the fort from this gate only.
Gardens and Fountains
The gardens in Shaniwar Wada add beauty and peace to the fort’s beauty and serenity. The fort has the Mughal Garden, which was designed to create a peaceful environment for the Peshwas and their guests. Among all these, one feature had to be noticed: the Hazari Karanje, a lotus-shaped fountain with 16 jets that create beautiful water designs.
Cultural Impact
Shaniwar Wada is not just an architecture that people visit; it is also a cultural icon and plays a vital role in Pune’s identity, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The fort hosts various cultural events, including a light and sound show that narrates the history of the Maratha Empire, drawing visitors from around the world.
Preservation and Tourism
Today, Shaniwar Wada is a protected monument, and many efforts are being made to preserve its remaining structures. Even after much of the original palace was destroyed by fire in 1828, the fort’s surviving parts still show its importance. The site attracts many visitors who want to explore its rich history and architectural beauty.
Shaniwar Wada is an excellent example of Maratha architecture. Its mixture of cultural traditions, historical events, and beautiful architecture makes it a must-visit place for anyone interested in the history and culture of India. Shaniwar Wada tells the story of the Maratha Empire and stands as a proud symbol for the people of Pune and Maharashtra.
