Hidden behind a cluster of buildings across from the Navapura Police Station, the modest dome of the “Panch Bibi No Haziro” (Tomb of the Five Ladies) stands out. Though unassuming compared to other city structures, this tomb holds a unique historical and local significance. The Resting Place The tomb is the final resting place of six individuals, despite its name…
Madhav Baug, a grand 120-year-old haveli, is located near Qutbuddin’s Tomb (Hazira). Built in 1892 in Gothic style, this magnificent residence was the home of Shrimant Madhav Rao Gaekwad, a cousin of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Historical Significance and Restoration Originally serving as the ASI’s office, the property fell into disrepair over the years. In 2002, it was returned to…
Situated on the elevated site of the ancient village Vatapatraka, the Record Tower, also known as the General Record Office, is a remarkable example of 19th-century architecture. Designed by the celebrated architect Robert Chisholm between 1886 and 1888, this complex of 8-9 buildings, including the Record Tower itself, was specifically designed to highlight the verticality of the administrative center of…
Kevda Baug, once the property of the Daibhers, high-ranking officers of the Baroda State, was a sprawling estate featuring a residential bungalow set amidst lush grounds. The name “Kevda Baug” reflects the fragrant plant called “Kevda” that once characterized the area. The Daibhers: Originally known as “Daibhers” and now referred to as “Dhaibhers,” this elite group were the highest-ranking officials…
Maharaja Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad, known for his love of sports such as Golf and Polo, also ventured into Thoroughbred Horse Racing. In 1945, he purchased a year-old horse for a record price of US $1,176,000. This horse was the brother of Epsom Derby winner Dante and was named Sayajirao. Sayajirao went on to achieve remarkable success, winning the Irish Derby and…
The foundation of Vadodara’s aviation dreams was laid in the 1930s, during the reign of the forward-thinking Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. A passionate flying enthusiast, Maharaja Sayajirao’s vision for aviation was solidified in 1936 when he visited the Berlin Olympics. During this visit, he signed a significant Baroda-Berlin pact, enlisting the expertise of German scientists and engineers. In the same…
Long before the Gaekwads of Baroda rose to prominence, the city was under the governance of the Babi Nawabs, who served as officers and governors under the Mughal Empire. An Esteemed Heritage The Nawab family of Baroda traces its lineage back to the Holy Prophet Muhammad through his grandson, Hazrat Imam Husain. In the early 1500s, descendants of Imam Husain…
Just like the Motibaug Palace, Mastu Baug was a distinguished wooden mansion located within the compound of the Lukshmi Vilas Palace. Believed to have been constructed in 1887, Mastu Baug was renowned for its exquisite blend of architectural styles. Architectural Splendor The building was a remarkable example of the fusion between Gujarati woodwork and Marathi Wada architectural styles. Photographs of…
When Baroda was conquered in 1721 by the Gaekwads, Patan acted as one of the administrative headquarters. Later, this was shifted to Mehsana district in 1902, as it was connected to Baroda via GBSR (Gaekwar’s Baroda State Railways). With one of the administrative headquarters being set up in Mehsana, a place for the royalty had to be the next thing…
After establishing control over the territory, the British set up a cantonment in Baroda, located in the area now known as Fatehgunj. Over the years, this cantonment has been fragmented, with major portions now occupied by the Indian Army and an EME Headquarters, while the remaining area has been divided into housing settlements and commercial complexes. Originally, the cantonment spanned…