Located near Genda Circle, the Model Farm was an important initiative launched by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. Established in 1892, this farm was dedicated to advancing agricultural education and training farmers. It played a pivotal role in experimenting with and producing high-quality seeds. Founding of Agricultural Institute In 1936, the Sheth Dosabhai Maganlal Agricultural Institute was founded in Baroda, thanks…
Vadodara-Baroda
For centuries, India has been setting examples of communal harmony and religious tolerance in the world. And even today this tradition is followed by the people of the country in their communities in their own small ways. Every year during Muharram, the Taziyas of Baroda bring to light one such tradition. A Hindu Pandit and a Tazia For over 150…
Baroda, now known as Vadodara, has undergone significant transformation over the years, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This period of change was largely driven by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III’s visionary leadership, which propelled the city into becoming a cultural and administrative hub. Foundations of Change: The late 19th century saw the establishment of the City Improvement…
In Baroda, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with vibrant colors and enthusiasm, reflecting the city’s deep-rooted traditions. From grand royal Ganpati idols to modest ones set up in homes and community spaces, the festival is marked by joy, elaborate decorations, and festive spirit. Each Ganpati idol is worshipped with great devotion, accompanied by offerings of sweetmeats that children eagerly anticipate until…
Set amidst lush green fields, Wadhwana a century old tank, was constructed by the erstwhile visionary ruler – Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1909-1910. The tank maintains an impressive ecosystem habitat and provides winter grounds for migratory birds. The tank has a massive catchment area of 860 sq km , which provides irrigation to almost 25 surrounding villages. Earlier deriving…
Opened on March 8, 1930, Pratappura Sarovar, also known as Pratapsinh Tank, was commissioned by the visionary ruler Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. This reservoir was designed to supplement water supply to the Sayaji Sarovar/Ajwa Reservoir during periods of low rainfall in the Ajwa Basin area. Constructed at a cost of Rs. 3,85,000, Pratapsingh Tank covers a vast catchment area spanning…
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…