In the compound of GSFC (Gujarat State Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited) stands a remarkable Banyan tree that is over 393 years old, known as the ‘Great Old Banyan Tree’—truly the wisest tree in Baroda. This grand old tree was planted in 1931 & has been a silent witness to numerous pivotal events in Baroda’s history:
– The visit of the Portuguese Ambassador in 1638
– Baroda being designated as the Capital of Gaekwads in 1752
– The arrival of the Britishers in Vadodara in 1802
– The ascension of Sayajirao III as ruler in 1881
– Swami Vivekananda’s visit to Vadodara in 1892
– The arrival of Sri Aurobindo Ghosh in Vadodara in 1893
– The merger of Baroda State into the Indian Union in 1947
– The establishment of Gujarat State Fertilizers and Chemicals Limited (GSFC) in 1962
Additionally, India Post launched a special cover commemorating this iconic tree, which can be viewed here.
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