Just like any other town of Gujarat, Baroda also displays Pols as its basic housing unit in the old city areas. It is said that Baroda had about 200 Pols in total at one point of time. What is a Pol ?: A pol is basically an indigenous type of housing, seen commonly in Gujarat. A pol can be best…
Located near the historic Gahdiyali Pol, the Tank Shaal (Mint) is an important piece of Baroda’s history. It was established during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad I, based on the orders of his brother, Fatehsinhrao Gaekwad. The building was equipped with a large chimney, melting furnaces, and water ponds, all essential for minting coins. The coins produced here were…
Situated in the bustling Dandia Bazaar area, Bhaskar Vitthal Wada is a notable historical edifice with a rich heritage. Built during the reign of Maharaja Govind Rao Gaekwad (1739-1800) by Bhau Bhaskar Vitthal Khasgiwale, the then Deewan of Baroda State, this wada (traditional residence) is a testament to the architectural grandeur of its time. Architectural Features The wada is distinguished…
Maharaja Damaji Rao Gaekwad, also known as Damaji II, was the second son of Maharaja Pilaji Rao Gaekwad. He ascended to power in 1732 following the assassination of his father by the allies of Abhay Singh, a Mughal officer of Ahmedabad. Revenge and RecoveryUpon taking control, Damaji Rao’s first action was to seek revenge against Abhay Singh. His initial attempts…
Nestled near Padra Taluka in Ranu village, the Tulja Mataji Temple is a revered spiritual site with a rich history extending over 700 years. The temple attracts thousands of devotees annually, particularly during the Navratri festival, making it a significant center of worship and cultural tradition. Historical Origins According to Mahant Kavindragiri, the temple’s caretaker, the origins of the Tulja…
Ustad Maula Bakhsh (1833-1896), born in Bhiwani, Haryana, made a lasting impact on Baroda’s musical heritage, thanks to the invitation of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. On February 26, 1886, a Music College was established in Baroda, now known as the Faculty of Performing Arts, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, with Ustad Maula Bakhsh appointed as its first Principal. Known…
In India’s history, examples of religious tolerance and harmony are plentiful. One remarkable instance is the enduring relationship between the Parsi community and the Maratha Gaekwads of Baroda. The phrase “Pran jaye par Vachan na jaye” — a person may be allowed to lose his life, but the credibility of a promise made by him must always be preserved —…
Baroda State was renowned as one of the wealthiest states during the princely period, boasting its own army and navy. In 1725, 299 years ago, the first Maharaja of Baroda State, Pilajirao Gaekwad, was appointed by the Peshwas as the General of Revenue Collection. To safeguard the coastline from foreign invasions and enhance trade, a navy was established. Ships armed…
Baroda State had its own army and navy, collectively known as the Baroda State Royal Army. Renowned as one of the most modern and capable forces in India during its time, it was Maharaja Khanderao Gaekwad (1856 to 1870 AD) who established and organized a regular force comprising infantry, cavalry, and artillery. European and Anglo-Indian trainers were engaged to train…
Opened in 1929, Shivaji Chitra Bhavan, located near the Music College, was Baroda’s first cinema house to feature a cinemascope screen. Originally named Chitra Bhavan, the theatre was known for showing silent films in its early days. The Evolution of the Theatre In 1969, the theatre was damaged during riots but was soon renovated and reopened as Prince Cinema (Talkies)….