6 Places In Pune That Will Remind You Of The Glory Of The Peshwa Legacy

Our very own city of Peshwas is historically significant as it was a major foothold of the Maratha empire. Once ruled by the Peshwas appointed by the Maratha rulers, the city is still home to mansions, temples and other monuments that remind us of the Peshwa legacy. So let’s take a look at some of these monuments that stand tall even today.

Shaniwarwada

One of the most iconic monuments in the city, Shaniwarwada was built in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao Ⅰ as the capital building of the Peshwas. The originally seven storeyed stone structure was largely destroyed in a fire in 1828, but even though in ruins, the wada still retains its magnificence. The massive Dilli Darwaza, the intricately designed jharokhas or the sixteen petal lotus fountains; the architectural elements depict the richness of its Peshwa inhabitants even today. And when you visit Shaniwarwada, don’t forget to catch their light and sound laser show which will give you a deeper insight into Peshwa history.
Where: Shaniwar Peth

Kasba Ganpati

The Gram Devta (presiding deity) of Punawadi, we know Kasba Ganpati as the Pahila Manacha Ganpati today. After the discovery of this Ganpati idol in 1630, the Kasba Ganpati temple was established by Jijabai, mother of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The Peshwas were also ardent followers of Lord Ganesha and carried forward the tradition of holding grand Ganesh celebrations in the Shaniwarwada. Pioneered by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, the public Ganeshotsav celebrations take place even today in the city with Kasba Ganpati having the honour of kicking off the processions!
Where: 159, Kasba Peth Road, Durvankur Society, Phadke Haud, Kasba Peth

Mahadji Shinde Chhatri

Shinde Chhatri is a memorial dedicated to the 18th-century military leader Mahadji Shinde. He was the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army under the Peshwas and was known to be one of the pillars of Maratha resurrection. The Shinde Chhatri is the site of cremation of the powerful statesman. The Anglo-Rajasthani architecture used in the construction of this monument depicts a fine blend of the two cultures and the hall is complete with fine carvings, idols of saints and paintings. Restoration efforts are underway here and the monument will soon have its own museum as well!
Where: Wanawadi Road, Pune Cantonment

Vishrambaug Wada

Located right in front of the entrance to Tulsibaug, Vishrambaug Wada, after much restoration, stands tall and beautiful today, reminiscent of its past. The luxurious residence of Peshwa Bajirao II in the early nineteenth century, Vishrambaug Wada is a vision to behold. With its gorgeous carved woodwork and fine brick construction; the Wada is a sprawling 20,000 sq ft. The Wada is three-storeyed or teen chowki as it is known, and it also houses an exhibition that takes you through the historical journey of Pune.
When: 619, RB Kumthekar Road, Perugate, Sadashiv Peth

Nana Wada

Another stunning example of Peshwa-era architecture, Nana Wada was built in 1780 by Nana Phadnavis, the chief administrative officer of the Peshwas. After the death of Madhavrao Peshwa, Nana Phadnavis provided his able leadership to the Maratha empire. Made in timber with beautiful arches, balconies with wooden railings, cypress shaped columns and dome-shaped ceilings; the Wada depicts a strong influence of colonial architectural elements. The first floor has a big diwan khana and a verandah with paintings on its walls! 
Where: 715, PMC Vidyalaya Road, Budhwar Peth

Tambdi Jogeshwari Temple

Formed around a Swayambhu idol, the Tambdi Jogeshwari temple is supposed to be the oldest in Pune. With the blessings of the Goddess in 1636, Shivaji Maharaj with his mother Jijabai, ploughed the land in front of the temple with a golden plough and laid the foundation for Pune's new beginning. The Peshwas too, along with their wives, sought the blessings of this Goddess before every new beginning. On special occasions such as Dussehra, a pooja followed by a procession with the Goddess in a palkhi was a tradition started by the Peshwas that continues even today!
Where: 33 A, Budhwar Peth Road, Budhwar Peth