Historical Places In Pune

Shaniwar Wada :

The palace was constructed by Bajiroa 1st in the 1730. It was a 13 storey building. There is a story told about why this place was chosen for the construction. The story says-The Thorale (Elder) Bajirao once saw a rabbit chasing a dog in this place. Taking inspiration from this Shaniwar Wada was built, a place which would never see defeat. It used to be the head quarter of the Peshwas and it symbolizes Pune's culture. Looking at the construction one understands how the structure was built giving highest priority to the security. The main entrance is known as 'Delhi Darwaja', others have named like Ganesh, Mastani, Jambhal, Khidki.

There is a statue of Bajijrao (1 st) on a horse in the ground in front of Shaniwar Wada. Inside one can see Ganesh Mahal, Rang Mahal, Aarsa (Mirror) Mahal, Hasti Dant (Elephant Tusk) Mahal, Diwan Khana, Fountains. Currently renovated & also have a light & music show. The main part left is nagarkhana which gives good inside view. This is an expansive palace with its impressive fountains and gardens. The palace was the seat of Peshwa power and later was destroyed by a fire in 1828. All that remains are the walls that fortified this palace, with their sturdy doors, studded with spikes for added protection. Nearby is a street where the Peshwas unleashed elephants to trample dissidents to death.

               On some special days there is some sound & light shows are held for people...& also play the whole story. 

Lal Mahal :

Shivaji's father Shahaji who was a Sardar in the Bijapur Sultanat, was given territories in Pune. At that time he was residing in Bangalore. He decided to send his wife Jijabai and his son Shivaji to Pune. In 1636 AD for their residence he built a palace for them, to which he named Lal Mahal. Shivaji stayed here for many years until he conquered his first fort. Lal Mahal was renovated by Pune Municipal Corporation in 1988.
It is a red brick structure standing very prominently in the heart of the city. There is a statue of "Jijamata" ( Shivaji's Mother ). There is the impressive representation, showing young Shivaji plowing the land with a golden plough, with mother Jijabai and  Guru Dadoji Konddev looking at him. This place is just next to Shaniwarwada. Four Umbrellas on terrace is the attraction of the Mahal.  This is the same place where Shivaji Maharaj cut Shaistekhan's fingers when he was trying to run away from one of the windows of the Lal Mahal. Pictorial representation of incidents from Shivaji Maharaja's life could be seen on the walls of this palace. Jijamata Garden has also been made in this place. Kids senior citizens spend their evenings happily here.