Mahadji Shinde Chhatri , Pune, India, remarkable architecture splendor to honor former military leader!

Shinde Chhatri is a historical memorial in Pune dedicated to Mahadji Shinde, a prominent Maratha leader and commander-in-chief under the Peshwas from 1760 to 1780. Mahadji Shinde played a crucial role in reviving Maratha power in North India after their defeat in the Third Battle of Panipat in 1761.

Shiva temple, mahadji Shinde chhatri comple, Alamy.com

Shinde Chhatri and temple 

Above image:   Located in the Wanowri suburb, a bit  away from central Pune city, Shinde Chhatri is  a fine heritage site, but has not received wide publicity.  The Shinde Chhatri complex includes a Shiva Temple as well as a samadhi (cenotaph) of 18th century military leader Mahadji Shinde...............

History of Shinde Chhatri

Mahadji Shinde Chhatri., Punepunetourism.co.in/

The complex originally only housed a Shiva temple built by Mahadji Shinde during his lifetime. After his death in 1794, his last rites were performed near this temple. Later in 1965, the Scindia dynasty, particularly Madhavrao Scindia, constructed the memorial building to honor Mahadji Shinde’s legacy. The Shinde Devasthan Trust in Gwalior now manages the complex.

Architecture

Spiral stairway Mahadji Shinde Chhatri.,Pune

                                                                    atlasobscura.com

Mahadji Shinde Chhatri., Pune punetourism.co.in/

Inside Mahadji Shinde Chhatri., Punepunetourism.co.in/

Mahadji Shinde Chhatri., Punepunetourism.co.in/

Shinde Chhatri is a blend of Anglo-Rajasthani architecture. It features intricately carved pillars, vibrant interiors adorned with chandeliers, and stained-glass windows. The yellow sandstone structure is also known for its distinctive rock idols on the roof and the large black stone sculpture of Mahadji Shinde at the entrance. The adjacent Shiva temple, built in the Rajasthani style, is notable for its spires (kalash) and detailed carvings of gods.

Visitor Information  Timings: 6 AM to 9 PM daily,  Entry Fee: ₹10 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners,  Location: Wanwadi, Pune (6 km from Pune railway station, 13 km from the airport)

Tit-Bits:

Visitors can explore the memorial and temple, enjoy the picture gallery of the Shinde family, and admire the complex's rich architectural heritage.

The beautiful memorial you are describing is Shinde Chhatri, located in Wanawadi, Pune. This historic monument was constructed to honor Mahadji Shinde, a distinguished Maratha military leader and statesman of the 18th century.

Mahadji Shinde played a key role as a trusted lieutenant of the Peshwa and served as the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army during a crucial period in the late 1700s. The complex also features a Shiva temple, which Mahadji Shinde himself built in 1794, symbolizing his devotion to Lord Shiva.

After Mahadji's death, he was cremated within the premises, and the memorial, completed in 1910, was built next to the temple to mark the site of his cremation. The structure is a striking blend of Anglo-Rajasthani architecture, a fusion of British and Rajasthani styles, which was popular in colonial India. Visitors can marvel at the memorial’s elaborate designs, archways, and the large hall adorned with paintings, photographs, and details of Shinde's ancestry.

The peaceful and serene atmosphere, surrounded by greenery, adds to the charm of the site, while the spiral staircase along one of the outer walls enhances the aesthetic beauty of the structure. Shinde Chhatri stands as a tribute to the rich history of the Maratha Empire and its remarkable leaders.

https://punetourism.co.in/shinde-chhatri-pune

https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/mahadji-shinde-chhatri

https://www.sid-thewanderer.com/2017/04/travel-guide-shinde-chhatri-pune.html