Located on the western side of Nyay Mandir is the imposing Lal Court, a large red building constructed in the 1950s. It occupies the site where a garden once stood. Initially designed to accommodate Diwani and Faujdaari Courts, as well as a mediation center, Lal Court was likely built to alleviate the burden on the older Nyay Mandir court. Recently,…
It is often astounding to see how a single individual can profoundly impact the lives of thousands in a short span. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was one such visionary who transformed Baroda, placing the city prominently on the national map. In 1938, to mark the 60th year of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III‘s rule, the citizens of Baroda organized a grand…
Located in the Dandia Bazaar area of Baroda, Shree Jummadada Vyayam Mandir, commonly known as the “Temple of Physical Education,” has a rich history rooted in the revival of Indian martial arts. Founded by Jummadada in approximately 1853, the institute began as a modest Akhada (gymnasium) in the Warasia area. With the support of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Jummadada transformed…
Born on July 3, 1897, in Surat, Hansa Mehta was the daughter of Manubhai Mehta, the Dewan of Baroda State. Her educational journey began at Baroda College (now The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda), where she graduated in Philosophy. She furthered her studies in Journalism and Sociology in England. Upon returning to India, she played a significant role in social…
Chandravadan Chimanlal Mehta, aka C.C. Mehta was born on 6th April 1901, in Surat. Chandravadan Mehta pioneered in theater & drama studies at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. The world celebrates ‘World Theater Day’ due to him, as he moved a resolution at International Theatre Institute under aegis of UNESCO in 1960 at Vienna conference to make 27th March as…
Founded in 1893 and formally established on September 1, 1927, by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the Oriental Institute of Baroda (also known as Prachya Vidhya Mandir) stands as a beacon of historical and cultural preservation. The institute was inspired from Oriental Research Institute of Mysore established by Maharaja Chamraja Wodeyar of Mysore. Initially affiliated with The Maharaja Sayajirao University of…
Shivji Ki Savari is a grand and revered chariot procession dedicated to Lord Shiva, organized by the Satyam Shivam Sundaram Samiti during the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. This vibrant event features the procession of a beautifully adorned chariot carrying the idols of Lord Shiva and his divine family around the city of Baroda. The Chariot and Its Idols The…
Located in the Dandia Bazar area of Baroda, the Premanand Sahitya Bhavan was established in November 1916. This initiative was inspired by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, reflecting his dedication to fostering literary and cultural development. Originally known as the Gujarati Sahitya Sabha, the institution was renamed to Premanand Sahitya Bhavan in January 1944. Founders and Purpose The establishment of the…
Nestled in the narrow lane of Ghadiyali Pol near Mandvi Gate, the Amba Mata Temple is a revered site believed to be over 2,000 years old. This ancient temple is distinguished not only by its historical significance but also by its unique customs and practices. The Temple The Amba Mata Temple is dedicated to the goddess Amba Mata and also houses idols…
Popularly known as “Narsinhji no Varghodo,” this grand procession is a cherished tradition that has been celebrated for over 280 years. Held annually on Kartik Poornima, or Dev-Diwali, the procession commemorates the symbolic wedding of Lord Narsinhji with the plant goddess Tulsi. The Narsinhji Temple At the heart of this tradition is the Narsinhji Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in…