Shaniwar Wada | Shaniwar Wada ( pune ) | Complete information about Shaniwar Wada.

Shaniwar Wada ( pune )

Shaniwar Wada is a historical fortification located in Pune, Maharashtra, India. It was built in the 18th century by the Peshwa Baji Rao I, who was the prime minister of the Maratha Empire under the rule of Chhatrapati Shahu.

Shaniwar Wada was originally built as the residence of the Peshwa rulers, and it served as the center of Maratha politics and administration during its heyday. The fortification was constructed using stone, brick, and timber, and it was designed to withstand attacks from both enemy armies and natural disasters.

The fortification was originally seven stories high, but only the base of the building remains today. The complex also included a massive gatehouse, several courtyards, and an impressive garden. The walls of the fortification were adorned with intricate carvings, and the interiors featured lavish decorations and furnishings.

Shaniwar Wada was witness to several important events in Maratha history, including the rise of Bajirao I to power and the battles fought between the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company. However, the fortification suffered significant damage during the Third Anglo-Maratha War in the early 19th century, and it was abandoned shortly thereafter.

Today, Shaniwar Wada is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Maratha pride and history. The fortification is open to visitors, and it hosts light and sound shows that highlight the history and heritage of the Maratha Empire.
There are several attractions and sights worth seeing at Shaniwar Wada. Some of them are:

1- The main gate of the fortification, called Dilli Darwaza, which is a massive structure with spikes on the top.

2- The palace ruins, which include the base of the original seven-story palace building, several courtyards, and gardens.

3- The Ganesh Mahal, a beautiful hall with intricate carvings of Hindu deities and motifs.

4- The Jhulta Minar or the swinging tower, a unique feature of Shaniwar Wada where two pillars of the tower swing in opposite directions but the central tower remains stationary.

5-The light and sound show, which takes place in the evenings and provides an audio-visual journey through the history of Shaniwar Wada and the Maratha Empire.

6- The museum at Shaniwar Wada, which has a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the Maratha Empire.

7- The nearby Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum, which has an impressive collection of art and artifacts from across India, including musical instruments, textiles, and weapons.

Overall, Shaniwar Wada offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Maratha Empire, and is a must-visit destination for history buffs and anyone interested in Indian heritage.