Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Maharaja of Baroda State from 1875 to 1939, was a transformative leader who significantly modernized the state. His reforms spanned various sectors, including education, industry, and agriculture. A notable project during his reign was the establishment of a tramway system in Baroda. This initiative was part of his broader vision to enhance public transport and urban…
It was at Baroda’s Kalabhavan that the Father of Indian Cinema, Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, also known as Dadasaheb Phalke, made history with his first full-length film ‘Raja Harishchandra’ in 1913. Phalke enrolled in Kalabhavan in 1891 after graduating from the J.J. School of Arts in Bombay. The Principal of Kalabhavan, T.K. Gajjar, recognized Phalke’s talent early on and imparted the…
Pendawala Duliram Ratanlal Sharma, an iconic establishment nestled in Vadodara’s historic Jambubet area. For over 162 years, this renowned store has captivated locals and visitors alike with its signature offering: Mathura Peda, affectionately known as Duliram Penda locally. Founded in 1862 by brothers Duliram and Maharam Sharma, who migrated from a village near the Rajasthan-Mathura border, the shop quickly gained…
In the serene town of Mehsana, Gujarat, nestled amidst tales of divine grace and timeless devotion, stands the revered Bahucharaji Temple. Legend speaks of its origins dating back over 180 years, rooted in the vow of Manaji Rao Gaekwad, a noble of the Baroda State, who sought solace and healing within its sacred precincts. The Origin of the Temple In the…
The Jagannath Temple in Vadodara, situated within the Dhairyasheel Palace compound, not only showcases architectural marvels but also holds a rich historical narrative. Built by Sayaji Gaekwad for his son Dhairyasheel Gaekwad, the palace and its adjoining temples reflect the grandeur and cultural patronage of the Gaekwad dynasty. Central to the temple’s history is a 500-year-old family temple housing an…
The scheme for building a stadium in Baroda was a significant endeavour initiated by His late Highness Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III on February 1st, 1938, pending the finalisation of the site. In the pursuit of a suitable location, three potential sites were meticulously evaluated: one along the Jagannath Sadashiv Road beyond Pani-gate, another situated north of Arya Kanya Maha-Vidyalaya, and…
Sayaji Dwar, also known as H.H. Sayajirao Gaekwad Dwar, is situated at the heart of Dewas City. According to historical accounts, this distinguished gateway was inaugurated in 1941 by Maharaja Sir Ganga Singh Bahadur of Bikaner, under the patronage of Maharaja Gaekwad Sir Sayaji Rao Khanderao Gaekwad. The entrance was constructed during the reign of H.H. Maharaj Sadashivrao II (Khase…
As INDIA celebrates 75 years of Independence, here’s an insight into how the Baroda State silently but surely made its contribution in the Indian struggle for Independence. While Baroda State always stayed an ally of the Britishers on the surface, it silently provided a crucial support to revolutionaries and their activities. This fact can be understood by reflecting on the…
During the Gaekwad reign, Baroda emerged as a major sports hub, akin to the Olympics. Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III was renowned for championing Indian and local sports. Sportsmen from across India and abroad flocked to Baroda to participate in over 150 sports, including athletics, kabaddi, long jump, hockey, wrestling, malkhambh, bodybuilding, and kho-kho. This sporting extravaganza was dubbed the ‘Royal…
Located on Rang Mahal Road, the Shani Temple in the Wadi area is one of the many ancient temples in the city. This temple is approximately 260 years old and features an idol of Lord Shani artistically carved from a single black stone. Notably, it is said to be the only idol of Lord Shani in Gujarat where he is…