Shaniwarwada is a 17th-century palace complex in Pune, Maharashtra, India. It was the seat of the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire from 1707 to 1818. The complex is located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Pune, and is surrounded by a moat.
The palace complex is built in the traditional Marathi style, with a blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural elements. The main entrance to the complex is through the Surya Darwaza, a massive gateway with a 1200-pound (544-kilogram) iron door. The palace complex is home to a number of courtyards, gardens, and pavilions. The most notable of these is the Diwan-i-Am, or Hall of Public Audience, which is where the Peshwas met with their subjects.
Shaniwarwada was severely damaged in a fire in 1828, and only a few of the original structures remain. However, the complex has been carefully restored, and is now a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace, learn about the history of the Peshwas, and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
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History of Shaniwarwada
Shaniwarwada was built in 1635 by the Maratha ruler Shahaji Bhosale. The complex was named after the day of the week on which it was founded, Saturday (Sanskrit: Shanivar). Shahaji Bhosale’s son, Shivaji Maharaj, used Shaniwarwada as his headquarters during his early campaigns against the Mughal Empire.
In 1707, Shivaji Maharaj’s son, Sambhaji Maharaj, was crowned Chhatrapati (Emperor) of the Maratha Empire at Shaniwarwada. Sambhaji Maharaj was a cruel and tyrannical ruler, and he was eventually assassinated by the Mughals in 1719.
After Sambhaji Maharaj’s death, the Peshwas became the de facto rulers of the Maratha Empire. The Peshwas ruled from Shaniwarwada for over a century, and the complex became the center of Maratha power and culture.
In 1818, the British East India Company defeated the Maratha Empire at the Battle of Pune. The British took control of Shaniwarwada, and the complex was abandoned.
Shaniwarwada Resotration
In the early 20th century, the Government of India began to restore Shaniwarwada. The restoration work was completed in 1936, and the complex was opened to the public.
In recent years, Shaniwarwada has become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace, learn about the history of the Peshwas, and enjoy the beautiful gardens.
Things to do at Shaniwarwada
There are a number of things to do at Shaniwarwada. Visitors can:
- Explore the ruins of the palace complex.
- Learn about the history of the Peshwas at the Shaniwarwada Museum.
- Enjoy the beautiful gardens at Shaniwarwada.
- Take a walk along the ramparts of the complex.
- Visit the Surya Darwaza, the main entrance to the complex.
- Visit the Diwan-i-Am, the Hall of Public Audience.
How to reach Shaniwarwada
Shaniwarwada is located in the heart of Pune city. It is easily accessible by car, bus, or rickshaw. The nearest railway station is Pune Station, which is about 2 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Pune Airport, which is about 10 kilometers away.
Timings and Admission Fees
Shaniwarwada is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week. The admission fee for adults is INR 25, and the admission fee for children is INR 10.
Conclusion
Shaniwarwada is a fascinating historical and cultural gem in Pune. The complex is a reminder of the Maratha Empire’s power and glory, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history.
