Shinde's Chhatri at Pune

Shindyanchi Chhatri is located a few kilometers away from the Pune race course. It is at Wanowari, an area situated nearly five km from Pune.
Memorial Named Shinde’s Chhatri
Shindyanchi Chhatri is basically a memorial dedicated to the great warrior Mahadji Shinde. He was the fifth son of Shreemant Ramoji Rao Shinde and served as the commander-in-chief of the powerful Maratha army under the Peshwas for 20 years during the period 1760 to 1780. This monument is hence also known as Mahadji Shinde’s Chhatri. Built in his fond memory, it is an attraction for art freaks, tourists, and mainly the history lovers. Chhatri literally means ‘umbrella’. But here it is the Samadhi built in memory of Mahadji Shinde whose last rites were performed here on February 1794. But the main attraction of the place is also the real ‘chhatri’ which accompanied the legendary Mahadji Shinde throughout his life.
Rajasthani Architecture in Shinde’s Chhatri
Shinde’s Chhatri is regarded as one of the finest examples of Rajasthani architecture and a masterpiece. It is this exquisite architecture which is the major attraction. The exterior is intricately carved to perfection. The entrance gates are made of iron and look majestic. They lead one down into the annals of history. The hall is spacious with antique lamps, colored glass panes, marble flooring, and stone pillars which transport one to the past. The walls are decorated with beautiful floral designs and carvings which make them look decorative. The windows have a mini balcony, a typical feature of Rajasthani architecture. This three storey tall monument houses a temple of Lord Shiva built by Mahadji himself in 1794, but the Samadhi of Mahadji Shinde besides the temple draws more crowds. He was a man of great deeds. Now in his memory stand a silver statue with a flame-colored urban and a heavily embroidered shawl. The original prayer vessels used by Mahadji Shinde to propitiate the family deity each morning are kept at the foot of his statue. They are still being used daily. A sign there warns visitors not to open their umbrella within the Chhatri’s grounds, as it would be an insult to the warrior’s memory.
The Shinde’s Chhatri Today
Shinde’s chhatri is built with conformation to all the laws of Vastushastra. Even years after construction, the memorial still retains the architectural designs and beauty. The carvings and designs are flawless and look magnificent even today. There are at least 100 to 200 visitors everyday who are enchanted by this palatial heritage structure which is calm and serene. Shinde’s Chhatri is a symbol of Indian architecture and also a place from where one can learn about the rich history of the country. It is unquestionably an exceptional place among the other tourist destinations in Pune. The temple campus including the Samadhi was later built by Madhavrao Sindhia in 1965. Presently the Scindia Devasthan Trust of Gwalior now maintains Shindyanchi Chhatri of Pune.
Shopping in Pune
The busiest market in Pune is the Tulsi Bari. It has temporary stalls selling traditional Maharashtrian jewelry. They include pearl nose ring and necklace. The Deccan Gymkhana area is full of shops which sell everything from food, fruits, furniture, gifts, leather items, and shoes. There is a lane called the ‘Hong- Kong’ lane which sells cassettes, cosmetic jewelry, flowers and trinkets.
Accommodation in Pune Hotels
Prominent luxury hotels are the five star Hotel Meridian and Hotel Taj Blue Diamond. Among the four star category are the Hotel Regency and Holiday Inn.
How to Reach Here
By Air:There aredirect flights available to Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Calcutta, Chennai, Delhi, and Mumbai from Pune Airport. Mumbai is the nearest International Airport.
By Rail: Pune is linked by train networks with all major states in India.
By Road: The excellent road network connects Pune with most of the important cities in Maharashtra and India. The Mumbai-Pune Express Highway offers breathtaking views. Pune is also well connected with Aurangabad, Bangalore, Goa, Hyderabad and Indore.
Timings: 6 am to 9 pm
Entry: Rs 2