In the 1890s, during the construction of Baroda College (now The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda), approximately 40 bungalows were erected around the campus. Among these was Malti Baug, located near Gulab Baug. Originally intended for academicians, this particular bungalow once served as the residence for the Main Education Officer of Baroda State. Architectural Features Malti Baug was named after…
Vadodara-Baroda
Following the completion of the Lukshmi Vilas Palace, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III commissioned several bungalows for state officials. One notable example is Gulab Baug, located directly opposite Sayaji Baug. Originally constructed as the residence for Baroda State’s Main Civil Surgeon, this bungalow later became the residence for the Pro Vice Chancellors of M.S. University after the Civil Surgeon’s residence moved…
Situated in an area called Warashiya is the tomb of Waris Shah, the “senapati” (commander) of Sultan Muhammad Shah III, the ruler of Ahmedabad in the 16th century. The name “Warashiya” is derived from his name, combining “Waris” and “Shah”. Waris Shah was known for his kindness and generosity, revered by the people as a “pir” or saint. Upon his…
Situated on banks of River Vishwamitri near Sports Academy is the Boat House belonging to Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. This building was used to park the boats when not in use. As seen in the picture the structure displayed exposed brick work with ornately carved eaves and finials adorning it’s roofs. The design of boathouse was derived from the vernacular timber…
It is often astounding to see how a single individual can profoundly impact the lives of thousands in a short span. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was one such visionary who transformed Baroda, placing the city prominently on the national map. In 1938, to mark the 60th year of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III‘s rule, the citizens of Baroda organized a grand…
Located in the Dandia Bazaar area of Baroda, Shree Jummadada Vyayam Mandir, commonly known as the “Temple of Physical Education,” has a rich history rooted in the revival of Indian martial arts. Founded by Jummadada in approximately 1853, the institute began as a modest Akhada (gymnasium) in the Warasia area. With the support of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Jummadada transformed…
Popularly known as “Narsinhji no Varghodo,” this grand procession is a cherished tradition that has been celebrated for over 280 years. Held annually on Kartik Poornima, or Dev-Diwali, the procession commemorates the symbolic wedding of Lord Narsinhji with the plant goddess Tulsi. The Narsinhji Temple At the heart of this tradition is the Narsinhji Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in…
As a part of a 200 year old tradition, a procession or ‘Vithhalnathji ni Palki’ or ‘Vitthalnathji Varghodo’ as it is known in the local terms, is taken out from Vitthalnathji Temple every year on the occasion of Devpodhi (Shayani) Ekadashi (agiyaras) & Dev Uthi Agiyaras. Significance : The procession or the occasion signifies the start of a four month…
The city of Vadodara, as we know it today, is a reflection of the vision and legacy of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. His dream was to create a city that was educated, industrialized, and culturally vibrant – a source of pride for its residents and the nation. The Significance of 2012 for Vadodara The year 2012 was particularly special as…
Standing solitary on the eastern side of the Old Bridge over the Vishwamitri River is an ornate Chhatri. This structure was commissioned by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in memory of his biological father, Kashirao Gaekwad. My Father Although Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was permitted to meet his biological father Kashirao only about once a month, he held immense love and…