Latest news with #ChhatrapatiShivajiMaharaj
India.com
14 hours ago
- Business
- India.com
10 Incredible Facts About Pune City That Everyone Should Know!
The eastern Oxford stands among India's thriving metropolitan areas because of its deep historical heritage. The western Indian state of Maharashtra now contains Pune as it developed from a small Maratha fortification site into a thriving city which efficiently unites classic Indian customs with contemporary innovations. The following list contains ten significant facts that make Pune City so fascinating. 1. Historical Significance: The Seat of the Maratha Empire Pune serves as an important historical site because during the time of the Maratha Empire it served as their central power. In the early part of the 18th century the Maratha Empire founder Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj selected Pune to operate as his main military headquarters. The city's transformation to administrative and cultural capital happened when Pune fell under Peshwa rule which lasted up until the prime ministers governed the Maratha rulers. Shaniwar Wada represents the peak of historical glory through its establishment in 1732. Before its demise in 1828 the Peshwa rulers had their authority based in this location. 2. The 'Oxford of the East' Educational institutions in Pune have made the city earn its reputation as 'Oxford of the East.' Among India's top educational institutions are located in Pune which features the University of Pune (now Savitribai Phule Pune University) together with Fergusson College along with Symbiosis International University. Pune has built 300 educational facilities which draw participating students from India and international locations leading to its status as an Eastern Oxford style city. 3. A Hub for the IT and Automotive Industries Pune has established itself into a primary location for both information technology (IT) and automotive industries during the past several decades. Numerous IT parks operate in the city including Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park based in Hinjawadi that hosts major tech companies including Infosys TCS and IBM. The automobile sector has made Pune earned its nickname as the 'Detroit of India'. Tata Motors together with Mercedes-Benz and Bajaj Auto maintain substantial business operations throughout the city. 4. Cultural Diversity and Festivals Cultural intermingling thrives in Pune because the city attracts people from various regional backgrounds with multiple traditions along with multiple spoken languages. Residents in Pune speak Marathi as their primary language although migration from all areas of India combined with an increasing foreign community also calls the city home. The multicultural population of the city translates into numerous exciting annual celebrations. The famous festival of Ganesh Chaturthi brings extreme devotion from the people of Pune during its big annual celebration. Pune celebrates all major festivals equally including Diwali, Eid, Christmas and Navratri which symbolize its open-minded population. 5. Gateway to the Western Ghats Pune functions as a main entrance to the Sahyadri range foothills because it gives direct access to the Western Ghats which hold UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Citizens from Pune base their weekend excursions at natural attractions such as Lonavala, Khandala, and Mahabaleshwar because of the easy access these sites provide. Several beautiful locations surrounding Pune provide stunning sightseeing and hiking routes combined with peaceful lakes which attract population groups interested in nature discovery along with adventure lovers. 6. Military Importance and Cantonment Areas Throughout history Pune has developed into a military hotspot. Pune maintains its military importance through several defense institutions because the British built their cantonment in the city during colonial times. The Khadakwasla location of National Defence Academy holds a prominent position as India's premier military training center. Indian defense infrastructure maintains its presence through the College of Military Engineering and the Armed Forces Medical College situated in the city. 7. Rich Culinary Heritage The culinary landscape of Pune unites classic Maharashtrian tastes with international food elements. People commonly identify Pune through its original Maharashtrian food specialties including misal pav and puran poli and vada pav. The widespread street food markets on FC Road and Budhwar Peth provide visitors with many options of traditional local cuisine. Plans in Pune benefit all types of eaters since its diverse cultural environment supports various international dishes and traditional Maharashtrian tastes. 8. Progressive Social Movements The location of Pune stands as a leading position for many progressive social movements within India. During the British colonial era Bal Gangadhar Tilak along with other leaders fought for freedom from British rule in this strategic city center. The city of Pune currently serves as a central location where activists sustain feminist and environmental and LGBTQ+ rights campaigns. Pune stands out as one of India's largest cities to hold the annual Pride Parade which demonstrates the city's advance-minded people. 9. Architectural Marvels and Historical Landmarks Pune maintains a beautiful collection of architectural heritage because it embraces historical sites from different time periods. The Aga Khan Palace stands as a 19th-century architectural masterpiece that additionally served as a crucial independence movement base in 1892. The reconstructed parts of the Lal Mahal present visitors with valuable historical evidence about the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The city houses three notable attractions: the Parvati Hill Temple, Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple and the Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum which contains numerous Indian artifacts. 10. Thriving Arts and Entertainment Scene The city of Pune presents an active arts and entertainment fabric which converts it into a major cultural destination. Several performance spaces alongside artistic exhibition spaces and music performance venues exist throughout the city. At the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) in Pune filmmakers find a comprehensive collection of valuable movies alongside cinematic historical artifacts. Pune also hosts the annual Pune International Film Festival (PIFF) and the Serendipity Arts Festival, drawing artists and audiences from around the world. To Sum Up With Pune seamlessly connects its historic origins to its advancing interests into the modern age. Since its time as the birthplace of the Maratha Empire Pune has evolved into an educational industrial leadership role while holding true to its authentic origins. All residents categories including readers of history and students and professionals and visitors can find attractions in Pune. Indian history and culture come to life through its engaging atmosphere together with modern technological advances that have established it as an energetic metropolitan area.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's rule will always be treated as people's rule: Pawar
Pune: NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday said the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj empire would always be remembered as "people's rule". Pawar was speaking at an award ceremony held by the Sahyadri Foundation in Bhugaon, where history scholars, including Jaysingrao Pawar and A H Salukhe, were honoured with the 'Shiv Swarajya Bhushan' award. "These two historians tried to put forward the real history of Maharashtra, while some so-called scholars tried to distort the history," Pawar said. Baramati MP Supriya Sule of NCP (SP) and Congress MP from Kolhapur Shahu Chhatrapati were also on the dais. Pawar said many kings and kingdoms ruled the nation and Delhi. The majority of them were named after the rulers like Mughals, Qutub Shahi, Nijamshahi and King of Devagiri. "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's rule was never known as the rule of Bhosales. It was always a rule of the public and it was Hindavi Swaraj. He always tried to unite people and bring people's rule. It gave confidence to common people. That is why we look at the Shiv Chhatrapati as the 'Yug Purush' (the man of the era)," he said. The NCP (SP) chief said the real history of Maharashtra would be inspirational for the new generations. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Memperdagangkan CFD Emas dengan salah satu spread terendah? IC Markets Mendaftar Shahu Chhatrapati, who chaired the programme, said Maharashtra has a long history of scholars who promoted a progressive school of thought. "We all are observing what is happening in the world, nation and state currently. If the progressive leaders come together, the situation will change for the better," he said.
India.com
3 days ago
- India.com
10 Thrilling Quick Escapes Near Pune You Must Visit Once
photoDetails english 2917397 Explore 10 beautiful destinations close to Pune that are perfect for a quick getaway. Whether you're drawn to green hills, ancient forts, or peaceful lakes, these spots offer the right mix of nature, history, and adventure. A great choice for anyone wanting a break without going too far from home. Updated:Jun 17, 2025, 05:35 PM IST Lonavala 1 / 10 Lonavala is a popular hill station known for its lush greenery, misty mountains, and scenic waterfalls. Just a short drive from Pune, it's a perfect weekend escape. Attractions like Bhushi Dam, Tiger Point, and Karla Caves make it ideal for nature lovers and photographers. Don't miss the local chikki, a famous sweet treat. Khandala 2 / 10 Khandala is Lonavala's quieter twin, offering stunning valley views, serene trails, and fresh mountain air. It's a great place for a peaceful retreat or a romantic getaway. Famous spots like Duke's Nose and Rajmachi Fort are perfect for trekkers and adventure seekers. The monsoon season turns the entire area into a lush green paradise. Malshej Ghat 3 / 10 Malshej Ghat is a mountain pass in the Western Ghats, popular for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and migratory flamingos during monsoon. Ideal for hiking and birdwatching, it's a nature lover's haven. With misty weather and serene landscapes, it's a refreshing escape from city life, especially during the rainy season when the surroundings come alive. Raigad Fort 4 / 10 Raigad Fort holds immense historical significance as the capital of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Situated on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views and a peek into Maratha history. A ropeway takes you halfway up, or you can trek the steps. Explore its ancient walls, market area, and memorials—it's a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Lavasa 5 / 10 Lavasa is a planned city surrounded by the Sahyadri Hills, known for its European-style architecture and scenic lakefront. Great for boating, cycling, or just relaxing by the water, it offers a peaceful and modern vibe. With cafes, adventure sports, and nature trails, Lavasa is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a quiet escape. Mahabaleshwar 6 / 10 Mahabaleshwar is a famous hill station known for its strawberry farms, forested paths, and viewpoints like Arthur's Seat and Wilson Point. The cool climate makes it a year-round destination. Visitors can enjoy boating in Venna Lake, tasting fresh strawberries, or exploring old temples. It's perfect for a mix of relaxation and sightseeing. Karjat 7 / 10 Karjat is a beautiful town surrounded by hills and rivers, perfect for trekking, river rafting, and nature walks. It's home to ancient caves like Kondana and offers stunning landscapes during the monsoon. Karjat is also a popular spot for film shooting and weekend homes, making it a peaceful yet adventurous destination near Pune. Pawna Lake 8 / 10 Pawna Lake is a tranquil spot known for its lakeside camping, peaceful surroundings, and scenic sunsets. With a view of nearby forts like Lohagad and Tikona, it's perfect for an overnight trip. Campers can enjoy bonfires, stargazing, and kayaking. It's a great escape for those looking to relax close to nature. Matheran 9 / 10 Matheran is one of India's few vehicle-free hill stations, offering clean air, red soil paths, and stunning viewpoints like Panorama Point. The toy train ride adds to the charm. With dense forests, colonial architecture, and quiet trails, Matheran is ideal for a peaceful weekend, away from traffic and noise. Kamshet 10 / 10 Kamshet is a paradise for paragliding lovers, known for its open skies and rolling hills. Located between Pune and Lonavala, it's also rich in caves, temples, and trekking routes. Shinde Wadi Hills is a popular take-off spot for flying. Kamshet is perfect for thrill-seekers and those wanting to explore nature and adventure together.
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Residents around Shaniwar Wada stage protest, demand lifting of ban on reconstruction within 100 m of protected monuments
Residents living around the historic Shaniwar Wada on Sunday staged a protest demanding that heritage laws prohibiting reconstruction within 100 metres of protected monuments be repealed. Members of the Shaniwar Wada Heritage Victims' Committee gathered holding placards that read: 'No begging, we want a house of our right', calling current laws unjust and outdated. The protesters demanded that restrictive laws barring reconstruction within 100 metres of protected monuments such as Shaniwar Wada be abolished. They said that families living in the area for generations are now facing displacement due to regulations under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2010. The law, enacted by Parliament, prohibits redevelopment or new construction within 100 metres of monuments protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), including Shaniwar Wada and Pataleshwar. Sunil Tambat, chairman of the committee, said, 'Residents whose families have been here since the time of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Peshwas are now forced to live in crumbling structures, with no legal rights to rebuild. Most cannot afford to buy homes elsewhere. These heritage laws have left us trapped.' Sunday's protest was attended by several local residents and activists, including Mayuresh Pawar, Ganesh Nalawade, Sanjay Fengde, Kundan Tambat, Anupama Majumdar, Swapnil Thorve, and others. The committee plans to continue its agitation until the demands of its members are met. In March 2023, the committee had also written to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) seeking permission for total reconstruction of dilapidated houses and a reconsideration of ASI norms. However, there was no response which prompted the Sunday protest. The issue has grown more urgent due to the deteriorating condition of several traditional wadas—historic residential structures—in nearby areas like Kasba Peth, Budhwar Peth, Shaniwar Peth, and Nana Peth. According to a 2022-23 survey conducted by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), 57 such wadas located within 100 metres of Shaniwar Wada were declared dangerous. Of these, 26 structures fall under the C1 category (extremely unsafe and uninhabitable); while 31 fall under the C2 (moderately unsafe) category. Every monsoon, the PMC begins the process of evicting residents from these buildings to prevent accidents. PMC executive engineer Supriya Walse-Patil clarified, 'As per the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR), residents are allowed to repair structures within 100 metres of Shaniwar Wada. However, any redevelopment or new construction still requires approval from the archaeological department, which remains restricted under ASI rules.' Local MLA Hemant Rasane, representing the Kasba Peth constituency, acknowledged the limitations of current laws and the plight of residents. 'The ASI law is the same across India. Changing it requires a central government policy decision. We are following up on the matter with the Centre. In addition to this, redevelopment of wadas poses a separate set of challenges, and I am actively working with the state government to find a solution.'
India Gazette
09-06-2025
- India Gazette
"Matter of pride to launch Bharat Gaurav train on Shivaji Maharaj's coronation anniversary": Central Railway PRO
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 9 (ANI): To mark the 351st coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the Bharat Gaurav Special Tourist Train was flagged off on Monday from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai. The train carried 710 passengers on a journey to several historic locations associated with the life and legacy of the Maratha warrior king. Speaking to ANI, the Chief Public Relations Officer of the Central Railway, Dr Swapnil D Nila, said, 'Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Bharat Gaurav train is starting from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus today. It is a matter of pride in itself, and at the same time, it is also important that today is the 351st festival of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation.' He added, 'On this occasion, the Bharat Gaurav train is going to places where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's special works are held, carrying about 710 passengers from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. This train gives all the passengers a chance to have a different experience and to show their love and devotion towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj...' Earlier today, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis flagged off the Bharat Gaurav Special Tourist Train for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj circuit from Mumbai, coinciding with the celebrations of Shiv Rajyabhishek Day. CM Fadnavis greeted the people on Shiv Rajya Abhishek day, marking the 351st anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Fadnavis also launched the Bharat Gaurav Yatra Train, a special tourist train that will take passengers to prominent places related to Shivaji Maharaj's life over the next six days. Speaking on the occasion, Fadnavis told reporters, 'My greetings to everyone for the Shiv Rajya Abhishek day. 351 years ago, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established Hindavi Swaraj. The Bharat Gaurav Yatra Train for the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj circuit, which started today, will take the passengers to all the prominent places related to Shivaji Maharaj in the next five days.' According to Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), the six-day itinerary will commence its journey from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Day 1 for Mangaon Railway station on the Konkan Railway network, the closest railway link to Raigad fort. The first destination is Raigad, known for the eponymous hill fort where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation or Rajyabhishek took place. Later, it was his capital from which he ruled. After sightseeing, the tourists return to the train and proceed to the next destination, Pune, where they will have dinner followed by an overnight stay at a hotel. On Day 2 of the tour, the prominent sites that the tourists will visit in Pune are Lal Mahal, Kasba Ganapati, and Shivsrushti. As the name suggests, Lal Mahal is a red-coloured palace constructed by Chhatrapati Shivaji's father, Shahaji Bhosale, for his wife Jijabai and son in 1630 CE. The present-day structure was rebuilt in 1984 on a part of the land where Lal Mahal stood and houses a vast collection of oil paintings that depict significant life events of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The temple of Kasba Ganapati, the presiding deity of Pune, dates back to 1893 and is believed to have been earmarked by Jijabai, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's mother. Since then, the city has been known as the city of Ganesha. Later in the day, the tourists will visit Shivsrushti, the largest historical theme park showcasing the legend of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Tourists will watch the life story of the Maratha ruler in 3D and enjoy other interactive sessions. On Day 3, after a night's rest at Pune, the guests will travel to Shivneri, 95 km from Pune city. The Shivneri Fort is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Junnar. It is the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a symbol of Maratha pride and resistance against Muslim rule. After lunch, the tourists will visit Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, before returning to Pune for a night halt. On Day 4 of the itinerary, the tourists will board the train for an onward journey to Satara. The key site to be covered from this station is Pratapgarh Fort, which is of immense historical importance because of the Battle of Pratapgad, which took place in 1659 between Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Bijapur Sultanate general Afzal Khan. This battle set the stage for the establishment of the Maratha Empire. After the visit, the tourists will have lunch at a suitable place and then board the train for the last destination of this tour, Kolhapur. The train will arrive at Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Terminus, Kolhapur Railway Station early on Day 5. After washing, changing, and breakfast at a hotel, the tourists will proceed to the Mahalakshmi Temple, popularly known as Ambabai, followed by the Panhala Fort. Sitting atop the Sahyadri range, the hill fort bears a testament to many battles. It is closely connected with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who spent over 500 days as he was held captive and later escaped. The Panhala Fort - also called the 'Fort of Snakes' since it is zigzag in shape. The Fort is associated with the life history of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Shambhaji Maharaj. It is remembered for the heroic valour shown by Baji Prabhu Deshpande, the commander of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during the fight to capture the Fort. In the late evening, the train starts back on its return journey for Mumbai and reaches early morning in Mumbai on Day 6. The package has been attractively priced at Rs. 13,155/- per person in Economy (Sleeper Class), Rs 19,840/- per person in Comfort (3AC) & Rs. 27,365/- per person for Superior (2AC). The all-inclusive price in all categories will cover the train journey in respective classes, the night stay at comfortable hotels, all meals (vegetarian only), all transfers and sightseeing in buses, travel insurance, tour escort services, etc. IRCTC will make all necessary efforts to provide a safe and memorable experience to the guests. (ANI)
