Shaniwar Wada Fort is a huge architectural marvel of the 18th century built in honour of the great Maratha warrior and the seventh Peshwa (Prime Minister) of the Maratha Empire “Peshwa Bajirao Ballal,” for his fearlessness and courage. Shaniwar Wada fort was constructed in 1730 on the banks of the Mutha river in the city of Pune, Maharashtra. Being the seat of Peshwas from 1730 to 1818, this Fort became the most significant place in Indian history. This historical Fort stands in a unique form of architecture today, whose charm and grandeur are not just famous in India but all over the world.
About Shaniwar Wada Fort (Pune)
The Shaniwar Wada Fort is famous as one of the prime tourist destinations in Pune, but once, it was a place where the stories of sacrifice and courage were Written. This heritage structure is associated with the great history of Pehwas of the Maratha Empire. This magnificent Fort was built to appreciate the bravery and valor of Peshwa Bajirao I of the Maratha Empire. Built in 1732, this Fort was the official seat and residence of Peshwas of the Maratha Empire until the Peshwas lost the Wada to the British in 1818 after the Third Anglo-Maratha War.
The grandeur of this beautiful Fort and the interesting history associated with it have always been a center of attraction for those who come to visit Shaniwar Wada Fort. This Fort was part of many significant events in the history of Peshwas, and it faced many military attacks. However, the popularity of this majestic Fort was further infuriated when people came to know about the horror story of Shaniwar Wada Fort. These paranormal activities are the main reason why tourists from all over the world eagerly want to visit this Fort.
It is said that this Fort has faced many tragedies in the past. An unexplained fire largely destroyed the Shaniwar Wada fort in 1828, and local relates this incident to the Shaniwar Wada haunted story. Still, the remaining structure that survived the fire now remains a famous tourist site. The light and sound show at Shaniwar Wada Fort at night, which shows the story of bravery and courage of Maratha, is the most exciting activity event for the tourists.
What is so Interesting about the History of Shaniwar Wada Fort?
We all know that Shaniwar Wada is one of the major historical places in Pune but what is so fascinating about its history that attracts people around the world. The history of this fort revolves around Peshwa Bajirao, who never lost a single battle in his lifetime. He also laid the foundation of this Fort as his prime seat.
This Fort was initially built with stones, but some people complained to Chhatrapati Sahu that Peshwa was getting his house built with stones. After which, an official letter came and ordered to build the rest of the building with bricks. Even today, if you look at the architecture of the Fort, you will see that the initial structure of this grand Fort is made of stones and the rest the bricks.
Along with being proud of this fort, many heart-wrenching incidents are associated with it. This palace, lying like ruins in today’s time, used to be a huge seven-storey building where thousands of people lived. The beauty of this fort was tarnished when a significant part of the fort came under fire in 1791. The traces of this horrific event were also not well hidden; in 1808, an incident burnt all the artifacts and important documents of this fort.
Similarly, the years 1812, 1813, and 1818 were the years when this fort was engulfed by fire several times, causing great damage to the fort and destroying the two storeys of the palace and the royal hall. 90 years after the construction of the fort, British artillery attacked the fort. In this attack, except for the base floor made of stones, no part of the rest could stand.
In the year 1828, the fort was again covered with dark clouds, and fire once again engulfed the fort in which the remaining building and things of the fort were burnt to ashes. It is said that this fire remained in the palace for a whole week, due to which it turned into ruins.
Till date, no one has come to know the reason behind the incident of this mysterious fire. Everyone has their own theory for these incidents, but the truth is lost in some pages of history that are being tried to find. It is believed that Shaniwar Wada Fort is haunted and is still living the curse of its misfortune.
The Mystery Behind the Shaniwar Wada Fort Haunted Story
What happened is that Fort, which was built to cherish stories of bravery and courage and to be their symbol, went into the trap of secrets overnight. Why Shaniwar Wada Fort’s history is related to betrayal, pain, and ill-fate? At once, this Fort was known as the most brilliant piece of architecture, but at present, it is renowned for its paranormal activities on full moon night.
Locals say that this palace is haunted by the ghost of Narayan Rao, who was the grandson of Bajirao and the fifth and ruling Peshwa. He was brutally killed by the guards on the orders of his uncle Raghunathrao and aunt Anandibai. After the murder, his body was thrown in the river without performing the last rites.
It is believed that if one’s last rites are not performed as per ritual, the soul gets trapped at the place of death. Since then, the tortured spirit of Narayan Rao cries for help and cries “Kaaka Maala Vaachva” can be heard in the night, making it one of the most haunted places in India.
However, the truth behind these paranormal events is still a mystery. Some people believe that these stories are mere rumours, while others say that they have heard the cries of Narayan Rao’s soul. Whatever the reason, this fort has been attracting tourists from all over the world.
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The Amazing Architecture of Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada Fort always comes on the list of majestic forts of India because of its unique architectural style and stunningly designed buildings. This fort was built for Peshwa Bajirao, and he also laid the foundation of this fort on 10 January 1730. Mughal and Maratha architectural styles were used in the construction of this fort. Many things, including teak wood, limestone, and stone, have been used in the construction of Shani War Wada Fort.
The fort wall was made so strong that it could withstand any kind of attack, but due to the order of Chatrapati Sahu, half the wall was made of stone and half of bricks. The main gate of the fort, also known as Delhi Darwaza, was of great importance at that time.
This main gate of Shaniwar Wada Fort towards Delhi reflects the ambitions of Baji Rao against the Mughal Empire. To strengthen this door, sharp iron nails have been installed in it, and it is so big that an elephant can pass through it. Apart from Delhi Gate, there are 4 more gates which are known as Mastani Gate, Khidki Darwaza, Ganpati Gate, and Narayan Gate.
The courtyard of the fort is decorated with gardens, but the most attractive thing in the fort’s courtyard is the sixteen-petalled lotus-shaped fountain (Hazari Karanja). This fountain is a priceless specimen of the unmatched workmanship of that time.
Stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana periods are depicted on the walls of the fort. You can also see several surviving cannons from that time which have been kept at the front door and within the premises. You will be surprised to know that a total of Rs 16,110 was spent on the construction of this fort, and it was a huge amount at that time.
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The Unbelievable Facts About Shaniwar Wada
- Shaniwar Wada Fort was the official seat and residence of the Peshwa of the Maratha Empire.
- It is so big that till 1758 thousand people lived in the fort.
- Shaniwar Wada got its name from two Marathi words “Shaniwar” and “Wada”. Shaniwar means Saturday and Wada means House.
- The fort had gone through a lot of destruction in the past.
- The fort faced fire several times, but in 1828 it burned down in a fierce fire that lasted for 7 days.
- It was featured in the most famous movie of 2015, Bajirao Mastani.
- It was also featured in an episode of the TV reality show “The Amazing Race Asia 3”.
- In 1773, the fifth ruler Peshwa Narayan Rao was assassinated in the fort by guards on the orders of his uncle Raghunathrao and aunt Anandibai.
- It is believed that the Narayan Rao’s ghost haunts this Fort
- It cost Rs 16,110 to build this grand fort, and it was a huge amount then.
How To Reach Shaniwar Wada Fort
Shaniwar Wada is the most famous place to visit in Pune, and it is situated in the centre of the city, which makes it very easy to reach here. You can take The fort is just 12 km far from the Pune airport, and it will take just 10-15 min to reach. There are taxis, private cabs, and autos that are easily available from the airport to the fort. You can also visit Shaniwar Wada by booking a ticket for the Pune Darshan buses organized by Pune Municipal Corporation. It will cost INR-500 per person.
Things To See Inside The Fort Complex
Being a part of Indian history, this fort has faced and seen so many things in a span of a long time period, But even today, this fort is in front of us with the same grandeur. Even after a large part of Shaniwar Wada was destroyed in the fire, we can still see some such historical things in this fort, which shows the richness of workmanship and architecture of that time. Some of these things are:
- Lotus-Shaped Fountain:- This 16-petaled lotus-shaped fountain, also known as Hazari Karanje is one of the best things you can see in the fort. This fountain is fixed in the middle of the garden and what is unique about this fountain is its beautiful lotus shape which shows how good the people who made this iconic piece of artwork were.
- Garden Complex:- Spread over a large area, this garden is very beautiful and enhances the beauty of the fort. Looking at the beauty of this garden, we can guess how wonderful this fort would have looked before it was ruined in the fire.
- Dilli Darwaza or Dilli Gatewaja:- It is a Main Gate of the fort decorated with iron nails built to protect the fort from the enemies. The gate facing Delhi reflects Peshwa Bajirao’s ambitions to conquer the Delhi Sultanate.
- Statue Of Peshwa BajiRao:- The grand equestrian statue of Peshwa Bajirao can be seen at the entrance of the Palace. This statue is also one of the best things to see in the Shaniwar Wada Fort.
- Ganesh Darwaza:- Women used this door to visit the nearby Kasba Ganapati temple.
- Mastani Darwaza:- This gate was dedicated to Mastani, wife of Bajiraoi, and she used this gate while traveling to go out of the palace.
- Jambhul Darwaza:- Also known as Narayan Darwaja, the concubines used this gate to enter and leave the fort. It got its second name after the body of Narayanrao Peshwa was removed from the fort for the last rites through this gate.
- Foundation and Huge walls:- We can still trace the boundaries of the rooms destroyed in the fire, which gives an idea of how grand the palace must have been at that time. And the fort’s massive walls are a fine example of the rich architecture of that time.
- Light and Sound Show:- The most exciting Light and Sound show happen every day from 7:15 pm to 9:15 pm. It shows the journey of Peshwa Bajirao through a projector.
Places To Visit Near Shaniwar Wada Palace
- Vishrambaug Waada Palace
- Chatrapati Sambhaji Udhyan
- Lal Mahal
- Shreemant Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Mandir
- Aga Khan Palace
- Shree Omkareshwar Temple
- Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
- Mahatma Phule Museum
- Pune-Okayama Friendship Garden
- Parvati Hill
Fascinating Shaniwar Wada Light And Sound Show
After visiting the fort, you can rest and enjoy the Light and sound show about the entire history of the Maratha Empire and the life of Peshwa Bajirao. This light and sound show happens every day at Shaniwar Wada fort through projections over a fountain of water. The First show starts from 7:15 PM to 8:10 PM in the Marathi language, and the second show starts from 8:15 PM to 9:10 PM in the Hindi language.
It is advised to book your ticket in advance to avoid facing a rush at the ticket counter. The ticket counter opens every day from 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm. If you want to experience something exciting, then you must not miss this amazing Light and sound show where you can learn more about the Maratha Empire and the life of the Peshwa Bajirao.
- Time Duration:– 55 minutes
- Ticket Booking Timings:- 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
- Show Timings:– 7:15 pm to 8.10 pm in Marathi – 8:15 pm to 9.10 pm in Hindi
- Ticket Prices:- INR 25 per Person
Best Time To Visit Shaniwar Wada Fort
September to March is considered the best time to visit Shaniwar Wada. During this time, the weather is not so harsh and remains calm and cool. This weather is also perfect for clicking pictures as the surrounding,s and the garden inside the fort become more beautiful after the monsoon. As it is an open area, it becomes difficult to visit this palace in Summer and monsoon.
Essential Information You Must know
- Location:- Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra, 411030, India
- Timings to visit:- The Fort is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Everyday
- Entry Fee:- Entry fee is INR-5 for Indian tourists, INR-125 for foreign tourists, and INR-25 Per head for light and sound show.
Some Essential Tips To The Visitors
- Try visiting the fort early in the morning when the palace is a bit crowded.
- Keep a water bottle with you to remain hydrated.
- Take your camera with you to take some pictures.
- Hire a tour guide to know in deep about the fort and make your trip to this Fort exciting and knowledgeable.
- Try to wear easy clothes so you can properly and comfortably explore the Palace.
- Do not throw garbage and food rappers inside the premises.
- Writing on the walls is a punishable offence so try to avoid it.
- Enjoy the delicious Marathi food around the Fort.
It is all about the Shaniwar Wada Fort. We hope this information will help you to know something about this majestic fort. As a witness to the great history of India and as a historical heritage in today’s era, Shaniwar Wada will definitely remain the centre of tourist attraction. We have tried to cover every point about the Shnaiwar Wada Fort through this article. If you have any interesting story or incident related to this fort, share it with us in the comment box.
FAQ of Shaniwar Wada Fort
Ans. Shaniwar Wada is derived from Marathi words; Shaniwar means Saturday, and Wada means abode. The foundation stone of Shaniwar Wada was laid on Saturday. Hence it was named Shaniwar Wada.
Ans. According to legends, it is said that Shaniwar Wada Fort is haunted. It is believed that the ghost of Narayan Rao haunts this fort, and the sound of his cries can be heard inside the fort on the full moon.
Ans. Shaniwar Wada was destroyed many times by fire and British attacks in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Ans. Shaniwar Wada is famous for many things. It is one of the most famous historical places to visit in Pune but what makes it more famous is the haunted story related to it. It is believed that the Spirit of Narayan Rao still haunts the fort. The beautiful gardens and lotus-shaped fountain are some attractions inside the fort. The light and sound show at night is also the major attraction, making it famous.
Ans. Built with Maratha Imperial Architecture, this fort is located in Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra, 411030, India.
Ans. Peshwa Bajirao-I built Shaniwar Wada in the year 1736.
Ans. This majestic palace was constructed at the cost of Rs 16,110, which was a huge amount in those days.
Ans. The visiting hour to visit Shaniwar Wada Fort is from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
Ans. The Shaniwar Wada ticket price is the entry ticket price is INR-5 per person For Indians and INR-125 per person for foreigners. The price for the Light and Sound Show is 25 INR per person.