Since 1982, Vadodara has been graced annually by the Rath Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots. This significant event is organized by the ISKCON Temple (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) and showcases a rich tapestry of devotion and tradition. Historical Background The Rath Yatra in Vadodara began in 1982, led by Mahant Jasumatinandan Dasji of the ISKCON temple….
The ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) Temple is a serene haven located near the Hari Nagar Market on Gotri Road, Vadodara. Established in 1999, it is dedicated to Radha Krishna, along with Lord Jagannath, Lord Balbhadra, Subhadra, and Gaura Nitai. Temple Precinct The temple complex is expansive, featuring the main temple surrounded by lush gardens and ashrams for men,…
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…
Nestled within the expansive gardens of the Lukshmi Vilas Palace compound stands the tomb of Alam Sayed, also revered as “Ghode ka Pir” (the saint of horses). Alam Sayed, a 15th-century Sufi saint, was an adviser to Sultan Muzaffar Shah II of Gujarat. Legend and Offerings: Local legend holds that Alam Sayed’s horse was buried nearby, beneath a tree adorned…
Located near Khanderao Market, the Govindrao Madhyavarti School was established by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in 1890 in honor of Maharaja Govindrao Gaekwad. Originally, the school also served as a music college, known as ‘Gayan Shala,’ for a period. The original building was replaced by a new structure in 1937, also commissioned by Sayajirao III. Architectural Features The Govindrao Madyavarti School is…
While walking through certain parts of the old city, one may come across strange yet regal-looking poles topped with arrows. These poles are actually the vent shafts of an elaborate underground drainage system. As part of his visionary schemes, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III commissioned a well-planned drainage system in 1894. Thus, a meticulously designed drainage network was established, featuring vent…
Maharani Chimnabai II, like her husband Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, was a forward-thinking leader who played a crucial role in advancing education in the Baroda State. Established in 1911, Maharani Chimnabai High School stands as a testament to her commitment to educational reform. The school was founded with the support of Maharani Chimnabai II and former Chief Justice Bhausaheb Gokhale. Backdrop In…
The post office currently standing in the Raopura area was built in the early 1930s and has a long history of correspondence between the Britishers and the Gaekwads. The earliest known postal service available in Baroda before 1863 was through the Camp PO, located inside the Cantonment area. Until 1863, there was no other post office; the city only had…
The Haribhakti Haveli, located in narrow lanes of Ghadiyali Pol near Amba Mata no Khancho was once a grand symbol of the city’s opulent past, a place where business, culture, and tradition seamlessly intertwined. Built by the influential Haribhakti family, this traditional mansion served as both a home and a thriving business hub. However, in recent years, the haveli has…
Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya is a Heritage Building, located inside the Campus of Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU). It was established by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad I in Year 1833, as a Bungalow, for Stay of British Officers. After many Years, it then became Guest House for Professors of University. And later, it was then known as Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya. Baroda Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya was established…