Shaniwar Wada in Pune

Shaniwar Wada is often the face of promotions for Pune Tourism. It was constructed by Peshwa Baji Rao I of Maratha empire in 1732. 'Shaniwar Wada' literally means 'Saturday Home'. 

In the below picture we can see 'Dilli Darwaja' meaning 'Delhi Gate' since it faces Delhi (North) - as a challenge to the Mughal empire. The steel spikes made in the gates were to discourage elephants from attacking it. 

There were around a thousand people living inside the fort. Teak wood from nearby Junnar forests of Pune was used extensively to make the buildings inside the fort which were exquisitely carved. The highest building inside the fort was seven storied high! 

In 1818 the British won over the fort from Peshwa Bajirao II and in 1828 there was a massive fire in the fort which destroyed all its buildings. People say that the British had set the fort to fire since it stood for Maratha Pride. Today only the foundation of the palace remains inside the fort which has been converted into a garden. We have visited it several times. In the ground adjoining it, Shaniwarwada Kala Mahotsav and lots of cultural festivals are conducted regularly.

Picture (below): Zooming in more to get glimpses of beautiful wall paintings:

(You can click on these pictures to see in bigger sizes)

Picture (below): Another Gate of Shaniwar Wada on the East side:

Picture (below): Glimpse of fountain and garden inside the fort palace:

Picture (below): Family Tree of the great Peshwas displayed inside the fort:

All pictures ©: Rahul