Baroda House, as the name suggests, was constructed for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda. Located on Kasturba Gandhi Marg near Faridkot in Delhi, it served as his residence.
Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, it is said that he conceived the design during a train journey from Bombay in 1921. Construction began in October 1928 and lasted 15 years before the completion of this architectural marvel. Modeled after other buildings in Lutyens’ Delhi, Baroda House features a dome inspired by the Sanchi Stupa, semi-circular arches, terraces, grand corridors, cooling arcades, beautiful gardens, well-ventilated salons, and elegantly decorated living rooms.
Today, Baroda House serves as the Zonal Headquarters of Northern Railway. Over the years, the building has undergone extensive modifications to suit the needs of the railway offices, yet it is reportedly in a deteriorated condition. Despite this, it stands as a testament to the former opulence of the princely State of Baroda.
Outside the building, in a small landscaped area, rests a narrow-gauge MTR class steam locomotive. In times past, every weekday at 5 pm, this retired locomotive would rotate its driving wheels and emit its distinctive horn, adding to the historical charm of Baroda House.
Partial Sources: Hindustan Times, Lutyen’s Trust (for Image)
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