Vishram Baug Wada (Pune)

India / Maharashtra / Pune
 building, place with historical importance
Historic Peshwa mansion, built in 1811 by Peshwa Baji Rao the second, for his relaxation and entertainment. This Wada has a large dancing hall, which still houses a large number of artifacts: paintings, chandeliers, vases and other knick-knacks belonging to the Peshwas. The Vishram (Rest)Baug(Garden) Wada(Homestead) was surrounded by planned gardens and was located at what was then, the outskirts of Pune city. The structure is constructed in the Peshwai architecture style, evolved under the patronage of the Peshwas. There is also the influence of Rajput architecture. The fine woodwork was predominantly the contribution of local as well as Gujarati craftsmen.

One can distinctly see three phases of construction. The façade is the reconstruction by the British Government after it was burned in a fire. The portion forming the façade was used as a municipal office and was torched by Vasudeo Balwant Phadke.

The intricately carved ornamental teardrop teak pillars shaped like Suru (cypress tree) trunks, with banana flower embellishments are characteristic of Peshwa-era craftsmanship.

Two mythological figures called ‘Vvyal’ buttress the 'Meghdambari' a cantilever balcony.

The main entrance of the structure is located below this ‘Meghdambari’ and leads to the first courtyard. The building which forms the façade of the structure houses a mini-exhibition trying to depict how Punawadi progressed to Pune.

The second phase located in the centre was used by the Post and Telegraph department and Central Library for years. It was ill-maintained by the bureaucrats and many beautiful structural elements were destroyed by insensitive use.

The third and recently renovated part is close to the original structure. This has a magnificent rectangular courtyard, paved with local stone. The courtyard called a ‘Chowk’ allows excellent ventilation for the surrounding halls and rooms.

History and art enthusiasts should also visit the ‘Nana-wada’, located a couple of kilometres behind the Shaniwar-wada; which has a similar structure.

Please try and protect these beautiful structures, so our future generations may enjoy the sight of the last remnants of the magnificent Peshwa architecture.
ramrao.abajirao.com/travel/pune/vbwada/
Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vishrambaug_Wada
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   18°30'50"N   73°51'12"E

Comments

  • Original text written by Ram Baji Rao Ref: http://ramrao1.tripod.com/vbwada.html
  • Description now also at http://ramrao.abajirao.com/travel/pune/vbwada/
This article was last modified 12 years ago