Is Shaniwarwada Fort Haunted?

Shaniwarwada Fort: A Haunted Historical Marvel

Shaniwarwada Fort, located in Pune, Maharashtra, is one of the most iconic historical structures in India. Built in 1732, the fort was once the seat of the powerful Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. With its grand architecture, rich history, and legendary significance, Shaniwarwada is a monument that captures the essence of India’s complex past. However, beyond its historical grandeur lies a darker side—its association with ghostly legends and haunting tales that have intrigued locals and visitors alike.

This article explores the haunted legends surrounding Shaniwarwada Fort, weaving them into the broader historical context of this magnificent fort.

A Glimpse Into the History of Shaniwarwada Fort

Shaniwarwada was commissioned by Baji Rao I, the prime minister (Peshwa) of the Maratha Empire, and the foundation stone was laid on a Saturday, which is how it got its name—”Shaniwar” meaning Saturday in Marathi and “Wada” referring to a mansion. The fort was originally intended to be a seven-story palace constructed entirely of stone, but after objections from the ruling Brahmins that only kings were permitted to build stone palaces, the upper floors were constructed using wood. Despite these limitations, Shaniwarwada became a symbol of Maratha power and grandeur.

At its height, Shaniwarwada housed the Peshwa family and was a center of political and military power. It is known for its sprawling structure, which included beautiful gardens, ornate fountains, and intricate designs. It stood as a stronghold of Maratha supremacy until the British took control of Pune in 1818 after the Third Anglo-Maratha War.

However, the fort’s history is not all about glory and triumph. It has witnessed numerous betrayals, political turmoil, and, most famously, a tragic murder that many believe has led to its haunted reputation.

The Tragic Tale of Narayanrao Peshwa

The story behind the fort’s haunted reputation revolves around the brutal murder of Narayanrao Peshwa, the fifth ruling Peshwa of the Maratha Empire. In 1773, Narayanrao was only 17 years old when he ascended to the throne after the death of his elder brother, Madhavrao I. His reign, however, was short-lived and fraught with internal family conflicts.

Narayanrao’s uncle, Raghunathrao, who was initially a regent for the young Peshwa, desired the throne for himself. Political intrigue and manipulation ensued, particularly by Raghunathrao’s ambitious wife, Anandibai. According to legend, Anandibai conspired against Narayanrao and altered a royal order meant to confine him to house arrest. Instead, the letter was changed to instruct assassins to kill Narayanrao. The famous Marathi phrase from the legend states that Narayanrao had ordered his captors to “hold him” or “take him away” (in Marathi, “Dharaa”), but Anandibai changed the letter to read “kill him” (in Marathi, “Maaraa”).

On the night of August 30, 1773, a group of assassins, believed to be sent by Raghunathrao, stormed into Narayanrao’s chambers. As the story goes, the young Peshwa screamed for help, repeatedly crying out, “Kaka! Mala vachva!” (“Uncle! Save me!”) as he was chased through the corridors of Shaniwarwada. Unfortunately, no one came to his aid, and Narayanrao was brutally murdered. His body was allegedly dismembered, and his remains were disposed of in secret, leaving behind a sense of betrayal and tragedy that has haunted the fort for centuries.

The Haunting of Shaniwarwada

It is this tragic event that many believe is responsible for the supernatural occurrences reported at Shaniwarwada. According to local legend, the spirit of Narayanrao Peshwa still roams the fort, crying out for help on the anniversary of his death and during certain nights, particularly full moon nights.

Visitors and locals alike claim to have heard the ghostly wails of “Kaka! Mala vachva!” echoing through the fort’s deserted halls. These cries are said to be loudest near the ruins of the once majestic palace, especially after midnight. The legend has grown so widespread that it is said that no one dares to enter the fort after dark due to fear of encountering the restless spirit of Narayanrao.

Other paranormal activities have also been reported. Many people claim to have seen shadowy figures or experienced eerie sensations while walking through the fort at night. The fort’s empty corridors, dim lighting, and the unsettling silence often add to the haunting atmosphere. Some believe that the violent and tragic history of the fort has created a strong energy, trapping the spirits of those who met an untimely death there.

Other Haunted Legends

While the ghost of Narayanrao Peshwa is the most famous haunting associated with Shaniwarwada, there are other legends that contribute to the fort’s spooky reputation. Over the centuries, the fort has seen numerous battles, conspiracies, and political unrest, all of which have led to tales of lingering spirits.

One such story involves a mysterious fire that broke out in the fort in 1828, long after the British had taken control. The fire destroyed a large portion of the fort, including the upper wooden stories, and much of the grandeur of Shaniwarwada was reduced to ashes. The cause of the fire remains unknown, though some suggest it may have been an accident or an act of sabotage. Since the fire, there have been reports of strange happenings, with some visitors claiming to see the fort engulfed in phantom flames or to hear the sounds of crackling fire.

There are also stories of soldiers who died defending the fort in battles and whose spirits are said to wander its grounds. These accounts further enhance the fort’s eerie aura, making it a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters.

Shaniwarwada Today: A Hub for Haunted Tourism

Due to its chilling reputation and the numerous ghost stories surrounding it, Shaniwarwada has become a popular destination for tourists interested in both history and the paranormal. During the day, the fort is a historical site, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Maratha Empire. Its sprawling gardens, massive gates, and remaining structures serve as reminders of a bygone era. The Delhi Darwaza, the main gate, is particularly impressive, standing tall as a symbol of Maratha power.

However, as night falls, the atmosphere changes. The fort takes on a more somber and eerie tone, with the ruins casting long shadows and the silence becoming deafening. Night tours and ghost walks are occasionally organized, where visitors can explore the fort’s haunted reputation firsthand, though entry after dark is typically restricted due to safety concerns.

The fort’s connection to both history and the supernatural has made it a focal point for haunted tourism in India. Many paranormal investigators have visited Shaniwarwada in search of evidence of ghostly activity, and it has been featured in various documentaries and TV shows about haunted places.

The Line Between Myth and Reality

As with most haunted legends, it is difficult to separate fact from fiction when it comes to Shaniwarwada. While historical records confirm the murder of Narayanrao Peshwa, the ghostly cries attributed to his spirit are largely based on folklore and personal accounts. Skeptics argue that the eerie atmosphere of the fort, combined with its tragic history, may lead people to perceive normal sounds or sensations as paranormal. However, the legend of Narayanrao’s ghost has persisted for centuries, making it one of the most famous hauntings in India.

Whether one believes in ghosts or not, there is no denying that the tragic and violent events that took place at Shaniwarwada have left a lasting mark on the fort’s history. The stories of betrayal, murder, and untimely death contribute to the fort’s haunted reputation, transforming it from a mere historical monument into a site of intrigue and mystery.

Conclusion

Shaniwarwada Fort stands as a testament to the rich and tumultuous history of the Maratha Empire. While its architecture and historical significance are undoubtedly remarkable, it is the haunted legends, particularly the tragic tale of Narayanrao Peshwa, that have cemented its place in popular culture as one of the most haunted places in India. Whether you visit for its historical value or its eerie reputation, Shaniwarwada continues to captivate the imagination of all who step inside its ancient walls.