The
Mystery of Shaniwarwada: Pune's Ghostly Fort
The
Tragic History
Shaniwarwada was built as a seat of Peshwas or the prime
ministers of the Maratha Empire. Decades have rolled by and watched grandeur,
intrigue, and betrayal within this fort. Narayanrao is perhaps the most fabled
story concerning the fort-he was the youngest Peshwa who met an untimely death
within the boundaries of the Shaniwar Wada. He was murdered, in 1773, due to
political conspiracies at the hands of assassins who were rumored to be
relatives of Narayanrao themselves.
It is said that on full moon nights, the cries of Narayanrao
for help, "Kaka! Mala Vachva!" (Uncle! Save me!) still echo from that
fort. Many visitors and guards have reported hearing the heart-wrenching cries
of Narayanrao, and thus this place is yet so eerie.
Paranormal Activities
Numerous instances of paranormal activity are reported at
Shaniwarwada. One can feel inexplicable presence; hear strange, mysterious
whispers and experience sudden dips in temperature. During nights, the very
atmosphere of this fort is unnerving, placing Shaniwarwada in the category of
India's most haunted location.
Architectural
Grandeur
Despite its dark history, the architectural brilliance of
Shaniwarwada cannot be overlooked. The fort originally covered more than 625
acres and featured intricate wooden structures, lush gardens, and towering
gates. The majestic Delhi Darwaza (Delhi Gate) is a testament to its grandeur.
Though much of the fort was destroyed in a fire in 1828, its ruins still stand
as a reminder of its glorious past.
Myth and
Folklore
Local folklore adds another layer to Shaniwarwada’s
mystique. It is said that a curse was placed upon the Peshwas, leading to the
tragic events that unfolded within the fort. Stories of hidden treasures and
secret tunnels further fuel the intrigue surrounding this historic site.
Modern-Day
Appeal
Shaniwarwada is now one of the popular tourist attractions
and a place for cultural events. Its historical significance and ghostly
reputation attract people from all over the world. Guided tours can be taken to
learn about its rich history, and night tours are there for those who are brave
enough to visit its haunted corners.
The
Unanswered Questions
There are questions to haunt the very walls of Shaniwarwada
that are probably never going to be answered. Whether these ghostly phenomena
have arisen from the turbulent history of the fort or from the reals of human
faith and folklore, the mystery remains. Whatever may be the answer,
Shaniwarwada remains a sort of abstruse symbol of India's past that reflects
history, architecture, and the supernatural.
End
Shaniwarwada's haunting legacy ensures its place in India's
cultural and historical narrative. Whether you visit to admire its architecture
or to seek a brush with the paranormal, one thing is sure: Shaniwarwada is a
place where history and mystery intertwine, leaving an indelible mark on all
who experience it.
.jpeg)
0 Comments