No good railway facility is complete without lodging amenities for both travelers and staff. That’s why the Damajirao Dharamshala, located just opposite the Vadodara Railway Station, was commissioned by Maharaja Ganpatrao Gaekwad. The current structure was completed during the 1870s under Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. The Damajirao Dharamshala was bustling in its prime. Originally constructed during Maharaja Ganpatrao Gaekwad’s reign,…
Vadodara-Baroda
During the illustrious reign of the Gaekwads, the Baroda State Anthem was a symbol of respect and admiration for Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. This anthem was a tribute to the Maharaja’s vision and contributions to the beloved city of Sayaji Nagri. The Anthem’s Lyrics The Baroda State Anthem was sung at all significant occasions, festivities, and events throughout the Baroda…
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…
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…