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HoVB

Unveiling Vadodara (Baroda)'s Vibrant History & Cultural Heritage...

Balwantrao Palace

This lost palace was constructed during the early 19th century under the reign of Maharaja Anandrao Gaekwad, specifically for his son Balwantrao Gaekwad. Unfortunately, Maharaja Anandrao Gaekwad passed away before the completion of the palace. Subsequently, Sayajirao II ascended the throne. Balwantrao Gaekwad and his family are known to have resided in the palace for a time. However, after Balwantrao’s…

Amreli

Under the Gaekwad rule, Amreli was transformed into a majestic administrative hub, anchored by the grand Raj Mahal(palace) which served as the seat of Baroda State’s power in Kathiawar. The city’s skyline was defined by the iconic Tower, a regal clock tower that stood as a testament to the architectural elegance and disciplined governance of the Baroda State era. Rajmahal Palace…

Shala Number Ek

Tucked behind a quiet compound wall in a bustling corner of Vadodara lies the historic Raopura Shala Number Ek. Built in 1884-85, this architectural gem exemplifies the Neoclassical style that flourished in the city during its construction. Not only is the building significant for its design, featuring elegant semicircular arches, Doric columns, and classical cornices, but it also holds a…

Radha Vallabh Temple

Nestled amongst the remnants of the Gaekwadi era, the temple believed to be one of the oldest in the region once stood proudly near Sarkar Wada. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, its sacred idol, a replica from Vrindavan, symbolized timeless devotion. The temple graced the ground floor, while above, the venerable Sanskrit Pathshala echoed with ancient wisdom and learning. Maharani Gahenabai,…

Narayan Guru Talim

Established by Dattatray Mujumdar, in house of Mujumdar no Wada at Raopura area, Narayan Guru Talim was registered as full-fledged akhada in 1880, during the rule of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Shrimant Dattatraya Chintaman alias Abasaheb Mujumdar of Baroda and his consort, S. S. Akkasaheb Mujumdar, have made an extraordinary contribution to the Indian Nation with their ten-volume Encyclopedia of…

Vadodara no Garbo

The Gaekwad rule was established when the Marathas invaded Gujarat and took Vadodara away from the Babi Sultans. Then, sometime during 1847–1856, an unidentified poet wrote a garbo, a type of folk song and dance, that described Vadodara under Ganpatrao Gaekwad’s rule. Details about Vadodara at that time is provided in this garbo. The garbo’s names have been numbered, and…

Chhoti Bibi Hazira

Located amidst the concrete jungle along Piramitar Road is Chhoti Bibi’s Hazira, commonly known as ‘Chhotiya no Haziro’. Built during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad II, this Hazira belongs to a dancing lady of his court. Legend has it that Chhoti Bibi herself commissioned the tomb during her lifetime with the intention of being interred there after completing the…