Shaniwarwada is a significant historical landmark in Pune, Maharashtra, and is deeply intertwined with the history of the Maratha Empire. Here’s a detailed overview of its history:

Foundation and Construction

• Built by the Peshwas: Shaniwarwada was commissioned by Peshwa Baji Rao I. He was the Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire. This happened in 1730. The foundation stone was laid on Saturday (Shaniwar in Marathi), hence the name “Shaniwarwada.”
• Completion: The construction was completed in 1732. It was originally intended to be a grand seven-story structure made entirely of stone. However, a royal decree limited the use of stone for private buildings. Therefore, the upper floors were constructed with brick.

Architectural Grandeur

• Delhi Darwaza: The main gate, called Delhi Darwaza, is a massive structure that could allow elephants to pass through. It is said that the gate was named to signify the Maratha’s aspiration to conquer Delhi.

• Other Gates: The fort had four other gates—Mastani Darwaza, Khidki Darwaza, Ganesh Darwaza, and Narayan Darwaza—each with its own significance.
• Palace Complex: Shaniwarwada was more of a palace complex than a military fort. It housed several buildings, fountains, and gardens, displaying a blend of Mughal and Maratha architectural styles.

Historical Significance

• Peshwa Residence: Shaniwarwada served as the official residence of the Peshwas and was the administrative center of the Maratha Empire during its peak.
• Baji Rao I: It was under Peshwa Baji Rao I’s leadership that the Maratha Empire expanded significantly. Shaniwarwada was his seat of power.
• Narayanrao’s Tragic Death: One of the most infamous events associated with Shaniwarwada is the murder of Peshwa Narayanrao in 1773. The palace was the site of his assassination, allegedly orchestrated by his uncle, Raghunathrao. This incident is one of the darkest chapters in the history of Shaniwarwada.

Decline and Destruction

• British Capture: In 1818, the British East India Company took control of Pune, marking the decline of Maratha power. Shaniwarwada lost its importance and gradually fell into disrepair.
• Fire of 1828: A devastating fire broke out in Shaniwarwada in 1828, destroying much of the fort. The cause of the fire remains a mystery, but it burned for seven days, leaving behind the ruins that are seen today.

Present-Day Shaniwarwada

• Historical Monument: Today, Shaniwarwada is a popular tourist destination and a symbol of Pune’s rich heritage. Although only the stone foundations and the main gate remain intact, the site still evokes the grandeur of its past.
• Cultural Importance: The fort is also the site of various cultural events and historical reenactments, keeping the legacy of the Marathas alive.

Visit to Shaniwarwada

Things to See

• Architecture: Shaniwarwada is known for its grand architecture. Much of the fort was destroyed by a fire in 1828. The surviving structures, including the imposing Delhi Darwaza (main gate), remain impressive.

• Gardens: The fort complex has beautiful gardens where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

• Light and Sound Show: In the evenings, there’s a light and sound show. It narrates the history of Shaniwarwada and the Maratha Empire. The show is available in Marathi and English.

Best Time to Visit

• Morning: Visiting in the morning allows you to explore the fort at your own pace without large crowds. There are no tour guides available. Make sure to read a bit about the place before you visit to appreciate the history and significance of the place.
• Evening: If you want to catch the light and sound show, plan your visit in the evening. The show is interesting and I would recommend to watch the show to appreciate the Maratha History. In Pune the weather is usually pleasant hence you can visit this place at the time of your choice.

Stories About Shaniwarwada

The Tragic Story of Narayanrao Peshwa

One of the most famous and tragic stories linked to Shaniwarwada is the murder of Narayanrao Peshwa in 1773.

• Power Struggle: After the death of Peshwa Madhavrao I, his younger brother Narayanrao ascended to the throne. However, his uncle, Raghunathrao, was unhappy with this and wanted to claim power for himself.
• Conspiracy: According to popular legend, Raghunathrao’s wife, Anandibai, played a crucial role in plotting Narayanrao’s murder. She is said to have altered a letter sent by Raghunathrao to his guards. The original letter ordered the guards to capture Narayanrao (“Dharaa” in Marathi). But Anandibai allegedly changed it to read “Kill Narayanrao” (“Maaraa” in Marathi).
• Murder: On the night of August 30, 1773, a group of assassins entered Shaniwarwada and attacked Narayanrao. The young Peshwa ran through the palace. He cried out to his uncle for help (“Kaka, mala vachva” meaning “Uncle, save me”). Eventually, he was caught and brutally murdered.

This incident is said to haunt Shaniwarwada to this day. Many locals claim that Narayanrao’s cries can still be heard on certain nights. These occurrences are especially noted on full moon nights.

The Mystery of the Fire

In 1828, a massive fire broke out at Shaniwarwada, destroying most of the fort. The fire is shrouded in mystery:

• Unexplained Origin: The cause of the fire has never been definitively determined. It is said that the fire started late at night and burned for seven days, consuming most of the wooden structures within the fort.
• Supernatural Theories: Some believe that the fire was not a mere accident. They think it had supernatural causes. It is possibly connected to the restless spirits of those who died tragically within the fort’s walls, including Narayanrao.

The Curse of Shaniwarwada

There is also a belief that Shaniwarwada is cursed:

• Unlucky for Peshwas: Despite being the seat of power for the Peshwas, it is said that no Peshwa who ruled from Shaniwarwada had a long or peaceful reign. No Peshwa had a long or peaceful reign. The fort witnessed several power struggles, betrayals, and untimely deaths.
• The Omen: Some locals say that Shaniwarwada’s troubles began right from its construction. During the foundation-laying ceremony, the Peshwa’s chief priest reportedly found bad omens in the astrological readings, predicting misfortune for the fort.

The Haunted Fort

Due to its tragic history, Shaniwarwada is often considered one of the most haunted places in India:

• Ghostly Cries: The most famous paranormal phenomenon associated with Shaniwarwada is the ghostly cries of Narayanrao. Many visitors and locals claim to have heard his voice, especially on full moon nights.
• Shadowy Figures: Some people have reported seeing shadowy figures within the fort. These sightings are particularly common in the areas that were most affected by the fire.

Shaniwarwada stands as a testament to the Maratha Empire’s glory and its eventual downfall. It continues to be a place of great historical and cultural significance in Maharashtra. Anyone staying in Pune or just visiting Pune must visit Shaniwarwada for better appreciating the history of Marathas.

• Culture and Heritage
• Travelling