Frustrated Fort Lovers Start Repairing Fort Themselves

Frustrated over the inaction by authorities, the fort lovers and history enthusiasts took the repairs of the Sinhgad fort into their hands. They claimed that parts of the fort’s Kalyan Gate were collapsing continuously putting a question mark on the stability of the fort. That is why a group of the volunteers went up the fort and carried out the repairs of about 2 feet of the wall.  

About 50 members of Sahyadri Pratishtan had warned that it will rebuilt relics at the Sinhgad fort, about 30 kms from the city. The actually did the same on Thursday even as the state archaeological department opposed the act. Shramik Gojamgunde, founder of the organization claimed that the campaign was successful and the members repaired the tower at the Kalyan Gate. They also reported that a major portion of the tower along the door has collapsed fighting with monsoons.

“A major chunk of the tower collapsed last year and since then 10-15 stones are falling time and again. This has happened this monsoon also. All the stones which fell off from the tower were lying near the wall and steps going down to the Kalyan village. We removed those stones and piled them in a side so that they could be placed in their original place,” said Gojamgunde.

A team from the organization visited the fort on July 11 and found that outer wall and towers  at the forts are either fallen off or in the danger of falling off.

However, V N Kamble, assistant director of the state archaeology department, blamed the police for inaction. said, “The Sinhgad is a protected monument. The organization had given me a letter to repair the tower within 7 days but it could not have been done. A certain procedure has to be followed and our headquarter has to be conveyed. I had conveyed to him not to do this agitation and don’t harm the structure. I had informed the district collector as well as police officials but they didn’t take any action.”

The archaeological department has sent a team of experts on Friday to the fort to assess the situation. Kamble said the team will submit its report and then action will be taken against the organization for ‘vandalizing the monument’.  “I will first get the report and will talk to my seniors. By Monday, we will decide the future course of action. They could have adopted the fort which is legal way of conservation and approved by our department,” he said.

Kamble had told earlier that a tender of Rs 1.21 Crores has been floated and sent to the state government for approval. That tender includes the works of restructuring the Kalyan Gate, cleaning and desilting of the wells found on the fort and weeding out the bushes grown on the outer walls of the fort.”

The plans for the renovation of Sinhgad were in pipeline since 2005. The proposal was approved in 2005 and the actual work began in 2008. The budget allocated was Rs. 3.76 crore however most of the that budget has been  spent in making roads or other works rather than maintaining the monuments. The state archaeology department had prepared a plan for the renovation of Sinhgad Fort at a cost of Rs 1.5 crore. The work was to be completed by this May.

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Centenary of An Ispiring Book

A book that inspired an entire generation of freedom fighters in Maharashtra is celebrating centenary this year. 
 

The celebrations for the centenary of Gitarahasya, the commentative treatise by Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak startrd from March 27 to 30. The occasion was marked by lectures of eminent speakers during this period. 

 

The Kesari Mahratta Trust in Pune, headed by Lokmanya's great-grandson Dr. Deepak Tilak, organises Gitarahasya Jayanti (birth anniversary) each year on March 30. Since 1962, a lecture is organised bringing out aspects of philosophy in Gita. This time, the series of lectures are organised because of special occasion.

Lokmanya wrote Gitarahasya as a commentary on Srimad Bhagwadgita. It advocates the way of works as against way of renunciation as propagated during Lokmanya's time. The new thinking was easily lapped up by the patriots, providing inspiration to the thousands.

The popularity of the book can be gauged by the fact that till now, 24 editions of the book have been sold. It has been translated into English, Hindi, Gujarati, Bengali, Kannada, Telugu and Tamil. 

 

The book is also special because of process of its creation. Lokmanya Tilak started writing this book on November 2, 1910 and completed it on March 30, 1911. He was placed in Mandalay Jail (Now in Myanmar) then on sedition charges. He was released in 1914. In the meantime, he wrote the book sitting in his cell, many a times yearning for right references.

After coming out of jail, Lokmanya once quipped that he could wrote his scholarly books only because he was placed in the solitary cells, away from hustle-bustle of politics. Commenting upon Gitarahasya, Mahatma Gandhi had once said, “ThIs book is the perpetual memorial of Lokmanya Tilak.”

Even though Tilak wrote the book in jail during 1910-11, he was influenced by the greatest theological book of Hinduism since 1872 when he was just 16 years old. Little Bal (Lokmanya's original name) was made to read the holy book when his father was very ill.

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Martyr's Nephew Extends Hand For Martyr

Kiranjeet Singh, nephew of Bhagat Singh, wrote a letter to district collector of Pune on December 6. In the letter, he reminded the administration that during the same time of Rajguru's birth centenary, the nation celebrated Bhagat Singh's birth centenary in 2007-08. To commemorate it, a national memorial at Martyr's Samadhi at Ferozpur and a memorial costing Rs 18.50 Crores at Khatkarkalan and a 18 ft high statue in the premises of Lok Sabha were erected. A museum is also in the making. It contrasted with what was going on at Rajgurunagar.

"Recently I am shocked and pained to see the news reports that proposed memorial of Rajguru has been delayed due to many controversies and red tapism. So I wish to offer our services to build a befitting memorial of Hutatma Rajguru. We (Bhagat Singh's family) would like to complete this task with our efforts and public co-operation with social organisations and like minded people,” the letter said. Singh has also asked the permission to “undo the injustice done to the memory of a martyr of Rajguru's stature.”

Sanjay Nahar, president of Sarhad, who referred the issue to Kiranjeet Singh told Pune Mirror, “Bhagat Singh's brother Sardar Kultar Singh went to Rajgurunagar some years ago. Then he expressed his wish to erect a memorial. But he was told that government is building it. Then he donated Rs 25,ooo to Rajguru College's library. After his demise, Kiranjeet Singh, was shocked to know the sorry state of affairs. He then showed readiness to contribute to building the memorial with Sarhad and other organisations.”

Story in Pune Mirror

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Nanasaheb Peshwa and Parvati

Today, September 17^th marks the death anniversary according to Hindu calendar of Nanasaheb Peshwe, the third Peshwa in Maratha empire. Word Peshwe simply means the prime minister or head of minister council. Balaji Vishwanath was the first Peshwa was first Peshwa appointed by Shahu Maharaj, the grandson of Chhatrpati Shivaji and son of Chhatrapati Sambhaji. Balaji was succeeded by Bajirao I. Bajirao's son was Nanasaheb Peshwa. Most of the magnificence of today's Pune is either created by Peshwas or stemmed from the Peshwa era creations.

Nanasaheb Peshwa is not remembered for the valour and romanticism like Bajirao I. Nor is he known for the political acumen like Madhavrao Peshwa. But he was instrumental in giving Pune some of the most memorable edifices and systmes. Prominent among them is Parvati temple which is a hallmark of Pune's cultural activism and aestheticism. Parvati hill situated near Swargate today is dotted, or rather dominated by the slums, but at the time of its creation, it was one of the architectural beauties of the Deccan.

Born on December 16, 1721, Nanasaheb was named Balaji Bajirao. He became Peshwa on June 25, 1740 and died on June 23, 1761. In his last days, he was much disturbed by the great defeat of Marathas at the battle of Panipat. He lost his brother Sadashiv and niece Vishwas at the battle. To add insult to injury, there was an impersonator claiming to be Sadashivrao Peshwa who came some time later after the battle. The case took many days and caused much upheaval in the ruling family as well as elite class in then Pune. Later, the impersonator was found to be a Brahmin from Kanauj and was killed. But till then, he was placed at Parvati.

Barring Raghunath Peshwa, whose ambitious politics caused much disorder during Peshwa rule, all Peshwas lived very short. On an average, they were only 40 years of age. Nanasaheb was no exception. He was 39 when he died of Tuberculosis. He did not take much part in the battles but more than that, he is known for his administrative skills. His predecessors had laid a solid foundation what with even Mogul rulers at Delhi consenting to their claims without much fuss. Nanasaheb built an artful and systematic rule on that foundation. It was during his rule that first water system in Pune was laid down. He managed to bring water from Katraj lake to Pune about 250 years ago. During his reign, he either created or rehabilitated Raviwar Peth, Budhwar Peth, Shukrwar Peth, Vetal (Guruwar Peth), Nagesh Peth, Ganesh Peth and Ganj Peth which even today are burstling with activities. 
 

Most of Nanasaheb's life was spent at Parvati. His existence was so attached to the place that he breathed his last at the site. Later, it was a place associated with many incidents of importance. After British rule firmly established itself on the land, the religious connotation of the place gave way to cultural one. Many citizens from old parts of the city were obsessive visitors to the place. Marathi literature is full of references of how old and young people alike had daily routine of climbing up and down the hill. Even as the city was birthplace of many movements and citadel of activists of all sort, the meeting spot for all of them was mainly Parvati. Converging at eateries and hotels is a very recent phenomenon for Pune. 
 

Paravati temple was established in year 1749 by Nanasaheb Peshwa. He started a trust to manage the temple. Opinions differ on the exact date of establishment of the temple-some say it is April 11 and some say it is April 7. But the foundation day of the temple is celebrated according to Hindu calendar. Nanasaheb was a devotee of Mahadev so he made an idol of Mahadev and Parvati with Ganesh sitting on their laps from gold! Along with Mahdev, four other temples dedicated to Goddess Parvatai, Ganesh, Vishnu and Sun were created here. The idol of Mahadev was made from 6337 tolas, Parvati 1245 tolas and Ganesh 686 tolas! Even five epitomes of the temples were also made from gold which weighed 1079 tolas. These idols were put in tight security cover and they were taken to Sinhgad many times during the enemy attack on Pune. On July 15, 1932 these idols were stolen. The perpetrators were never caught neither the idols were recovered. The present idols in the temple are made from silver and gold plated.

Nanasheb built a wada as his residence just beside the temple. Now his memorial is built in the room where he breathed his last.

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The History In the Arguing

Historians Refuse to be Part of Controversy

The existing controversy between Brahmin-Maratha castes as taken a new turn with a hilarious exchange of statements today. A group which appears to be affiliated with the Sambhaji Brigade claimed that a major discussion on the history of Maharashtra will take place on Saturday, June 27. the statement issued by the organisation involved some big names like Gajanan Mehendale, who is credited with the most authentic biography of Chhatrapati Shivaji in India, Ninad Bedekar, a prominent historian and also Panduran Balkawade. But this towering figures have refused to be a part of the exercise saying they do not think it an appropriate place for the discussion.

Rashtra Seva Sangh, hitherto an unknown organisation has issued a statement that it wants to have clear discussion on the subject of Historical Research or Brahmin-Anti-Brahmin Controversy. The debate will take place at Nehru Memorial Hall, Ambedkar Road in the Camp area at 4:30 pm. The functionaries of the organisation appears to be associated with Sambhaji Brigade or Maratha Seva Sangh. Even the appearance of the statement gives a hint of that. But even before the statement could reach newspapers' offices and carried through, the historians themselves counter-fired salvo. The statement issued by Balkawade, Mehendale and Bedekar says, “We are researchers of the history. We ourselves decide as where to discuss subject related to history. We do not think this forum is appropriate for the discussion hence we have decided not to attend it.”

All Maharashtra is plagued by this inter-caste disputations over the last one month. Maratha and Brahmin castes are face to face over inclusion and deletion of certain parts in the history books taught to the students. Successive governments pertaining to political parties have added fuel to fire by constantly changing the texts in the curriculum. Now, it has snowballed into a feud between two communities in the state. With Legislative Assembly elections in the offing (scheduled to take place in October), we will be witnesses to more such things.

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Thanks Raj Thackeray, you spoke it well

Caste Politics Deserved a Beating

Raj Thackeray, leader of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena has finally spoke on behalf of Shivshahir Babasaheb Purandare. He has warned of retalitory action if any attempt is made to a harm Purandare physically.

An open letter written by Raj points to the controversy over Purandare's induction as chairman of the committee set by state government. The committe will look into issues for erecting a huge memorial of Chhatrapati Shivaji in the Arab sea, off the coast of Mumbai. The total project will cost Rs 300 Crores.

Organisations like Sambhaji Brigade and Maratha Mahasangh has opposed to the name of Purandare as chairman saying that he does not deserve it. These organisations are fighting for the Maratha caste, to which Shivaji belonged. They have an old grudge against Purandare, suspecting that he had guided the US writer James Laine for writing his book, 'Shivaji: A Hindu King in Muslim India'. The book had attracted severe criticism five years ago because it had certain comments in the form of rumours deriding Shahaji, Shivaji's father. The issue was snowballed into a huge controversy then leading to an attack on Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute. Since then, Purandare is a prime target of Maratha organisations.

As is there way, the leaders of the Maratha organisations, Vianayk Mete and Purushottam Khedekar, went overboard in opposing Purandare's appointment saying that he will be physically attacked if the appointment is not cancelled. This prompted Raj Thackrey, fresh from the success of recent parliamentary elections where his party's candidates pulled in more than nine lakh votes, to issue an open letter. Raj is known to be close to Purandare and it was Purandare who attempted unsuccessfuly but vigorously to mend fences between Raj and Balasaheb Thackeray. He is one of the closest persons to Thackeray family. Given the penchant of Thackerays to the history of Marathas and in particular Chhatrapati Shivaji, it was obvious that they share a bond between them.

This also marks a good step in the politics of Maharashtra where the casteism is taking bigger and bigger roles. Raj has pointed the casteist approach of Maratha organisation and rightfully also pointed the connection of Congress and Nationalist Congress leaders with them. Both these parties claim to have a monopoly over the secularism in the state. But their role in all this drama is clearly visible. In fact, it was NCP's overstress on Maratha card that lead to its defeat in the Vidharbha and Marathwada region since these two parts have the maximum polarisation of castes in terms of voting. Purandare is a Brahmin, that also has become a disadvantage for him.

"Maratha leaders like Purushottam Khedekar and Vinayak Mete should remember that their opposition to Purandare, who is well-known across the state for popularising the Shivaji's legend among masses, will not go unopposed. Maratha leaders are trying to divide Maharashtra on caste basis and that is why they oppose appointment of Purandare, a Brahmin. Is it Purandare's crime that he belongs to Brahmin community? He has spent his entire life researching on Shivaji's life" Raj said in a statement here.

The MNS chief's comments came in the wake Khedekar, a former state government employee, announced of strong reprisal across the state if Purandare was not removed from the panel. This is not the first time that such an issue has arisen in Maharashtra. But no leader has expressed explicit support for any side like Raj except for his uncle, Balasaheb Thackeray. Shiv Sena chief is famous for his non-partisan policies as regards castes. By pronouncing his support for Purandare, Raj has taken a big risk as most of his party workers, young one that for that, come from Maratha caste. He has shown readiness to set aside this consideration for the sake of an old and reverred historian. This is a welcome move by any political leader in India.

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Trip to Purandar

The Departure

से My Photographs

Even before the day begun on January 26th,  we had decided to go to Purandar fort this time. There was a lot of deliberation over the matter between us friends for over two months. But it would have been foolish to let go this opportunity given by Republic Day to refresh ourselves. Our first choice was Rajgad, but as one by one members of our team walked out, only me and Tanaji found ourselves on the road. It was about eight o’clock in the morning when Tanaji drove away from Swargate, me riding behind him. He took me all the way to the fort and bought back safe and sound. When we were back, I felt each part of my body was rebelling like the people in socialist parties do. I could just wonder what the condition of Tanaji was.

The Road to Hell

से Purandar

While  embarking on the trip, we had no fair idea as to what is the condition of the road to this historic fort is. I had read many times kind of travelogues trekkers and tourists have written about the fort. In July last year, I almost made it to the fort but came away midway sincew I thought I would not get enough time. I was correct in that respect as the fort stretches to a bvast land and it has a hright of almost 22,000 ft above sea level.

However, it is the road to the fort that tests one’s patience and endurance. It seems as if the road was made in tar first at the time of Shivaji and since then there has been no repairs. The pebbleshave all beenspread on the road as if one spreads butter on a slice of bread. The vehicle have to be extra conscious for being skid or developing punctures. It also consumes a lot of energy also. If the second most important fort in Shivaji’s kingdom can be neglected like this, how far can one expect about other historical places. The slope leading to Purandar fort is one of the messiest roads in the world, to say the least. If anybody asks me an advice, I would rather say that take your vehicle to the base of the fort and thereon keep climbing by foot. It will consume your time and energy, but it won’t bring you a sense of helplessness, loneliness and frustration which the vehicle road will bring. And if it is dangerous and tiresome while climbing, it is 100 times more dangerous and time consuming while coming down.

 

The First View

से Purandar

The path to fort might be beset with difficulties, but once you set your foot at the entrance of the fort, it is only history and valor that surrounds you. At the entrance of the fort, a statue of Murar Baji Deshpande has been erected in honour to this great fighter. Murar Baji was the custodian of the fort when Moghul commander Dilerkhan attacked the fort in 1665 Dilerkhan bombarded Purandar with artillery but could not win over the fort. With his handful of men, Murar Baji was fighting the enemy. It is said that Khan had offered him to come to Mughals and be rewarded but he chose otherwise. This brave warrior gave up his life in defending the fort for his beloved king, Chhatrapati Shivaji. The statue sufficiently shows the bravery and valor of the fighter. It also reminds one that Maratha empire was created from the contribution of such selfless people.

The statue is at a relatively flat area and there is a lake nearby. In historic times, this might have been used by the people living on the fort for drinking water but is not used now. As one passes by the statue, the grand remnants of the fort can be seen in the background.

 

The Grand Neglect

If you think you can skip Purandar for want of excitig attractions, you may be forgiven. It does not have the proximity or ease like Sinhgad and it does not have charm or monuments like Shivneri or Pratapgad. Whatever remnants one sees on Purandar are standing in utter neglect. To make it worse, no information about these mute witnesses to history is available on the fort. There are buildings on the fort suggesting that British officers enjoyed a good stay here prior to 1857 but that is also not explicitly displayed. We can draw only inferences or make guesses based on the structures. There are two identical buildings here which might have been churches as the place for bell can be clearly seen. The walls of these churches have been littered with names of those who unfortunately happened to have visited the sites. Unable to produce such grand examples themselves, they have instead chose to put their names on the existing building.

से Purandar

There are also barracks on the fort supposed to be used by the soldiers of East India Company. All these are abandoned now except for those which are given to National Cadet Corps. NCC controls some part of the fort even now.

After returning to Pune, when we searched the history of the fort, it was found that the German war criminals were placed on the fort after the two world wars. The construction of the buildings and manner in which they are standing reinforces the fact. The authorities, that of Archaeological Survey of India (which controls the fort) and revenue department of Maharashtra (under which the territory comes) either think that every tourist is well informed about this history or they just do not want everybody to know the same. Otherwise they would have placed some boards, guides or something to that effect. The forgotten grandeur of this historic witness is matched with the equally grand neglect by present authorities.

 

The Vast Expanse

से Purandar

Looked from the Narayanpur, from where only you can go to fort, Purandar seems very small. Its magnificence is not so imposing as the Sinhgad. But once you are at the top, one realizes what an expanse this fort has. Along with its twin fort, Vajragad, the fort has a vast expanse. Though most of the places which might have served for the cause of Shivaji’s Sawrajay have now become extinct. We could not find many places where we could identify the exact places of incidences, except for Sambhaji’s birthplace. Chhatrpati Sambhaji, son of Shivaji was born on this fort on 16 May 1657.  After about a two centuries, Sawai Madhavrao Peshwa was born on this fort. After the fall of Maratha empire, the fort came to East India Company.

The Modern History

से Purandar

It is not that Purandar is condemned to perpetually lost in the nostalgia of an empire building at few point of times in history. Until now, it was home to the human footprints and ventures. We could spot two buildings which served as bakery during 18 and 19th century.  The building is one of the classic examples of British era buildings and has many features which are hardly seen now.

Take for example this building. It has heaths, fireplaces and exquisite curves in walls. Now no one lives in the building. It seems it has been preserved for a future project of ghost town. And why British, even post-independence era structure are left to live in the company of wild bushes and trees. Just in front of this building, there is stage made from cement concrete. It took us about ten minutes for us to spot the foundation stone of the stage which declares that it was inaugurated in 1970. Within 40 years, it has been transferred in not more than a tomb. It was supposedly named Yashwant Rangmanch.

After wandering for over two hours, we called it a day. There was nothing more to see. But we amused ourselves with a group of fort lovers who were busy reciting powadas, a kind of ballads in honor of historic warrior.  When asked for water bottle, the lone vendor at the fort said it would cost us Rs 25. We preferred not to take it and instead drank cold drinks once were in Narayanpur. That did not prevent us from tasting the bhel at fort itself.  We would never had relished such a common fare had we been not tired of walking in the sun. All in all, we did nothing great, did see nothing great but for us, it was a great experience.

When we were returning, both of us were dissatisfied that there was no relic here which we would have remembered for life. Still, we promised each other to return in the monsoon season when Sahyadri is adorned with greenery. Hope, better luck then!

Technorati Tags     Day,Republic,Trip,Purandar,Pune,Fort

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Purandar

Republic Day At Purandar

 

About three years ago, I spent my Republic Day holiday wandering in Pune with my friends. That was the day when I saw Shaniwar Wada first time. This time around I was at Purandar. Yesterday we went to here with my friend Tanaji. The famous fort in the history of Maratha empire. This was the fort where Chhatrapti Sambhaji born. Many a sites on the fort are in ruins. I am going to write about it later. But what made our trip special was that it was a Republic Day and we were on a fort once owned and occupied by Chhatrapati Shivaji.

 

The flag hoisting on the fort was done by Circle Officer of Purandar Taluka. Not many people were present at the occasion. But as the day progressed, people came in large numbers. The chanting of 'Shivaji Maharaj Ki Jai' could be heard everywhere. We left early, at about 3 Pm so we do not no how many people were there in the evening.

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Technorati Tags     Day,Republic,Purandar,Pune,Tricolour,Shaniwar,Wada

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Diamond Jubilee of NCL

National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) is celebrating Dimaond Jubilee of the institute begining from January 9. Even though built about three years before, NCL which is a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), New Delhi was formally declared open on January 3, 1950. The then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru was in Pune for the Science Congress at the time. Coinciding with that occasion, NCL was inuagurated.

The Director of the institute Dr S. Sivaram told reporters that NCL will spend about Rs. 50 to 75 crore in the next five years on a mega research project on Solar Energy in which a next generation Non Silicon Solar Energy material will be developed using institutional facilities at the campus. NCL is also working on making a prototype for assembly of 1000 fuel cells for which it is talking to private sector companies for partnerships. About 4 to 5 crores funding received for it will be spent on the fuel cell assembly project in the next one to two years.

NCL has also established a partnership with Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) Kalpakkam to use its expertise on programmes critical to development of Fast Breeder Reactor Technology. He said, "Chemistry and Biology are fast becoming one and hence NCL is trying to build a Chemistry-Biology Interface so that chemists can work on biology. Under this a Utility Lab will be set up by NCL. About 100 acres of land has been made available by NCL to Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER), Pune to set up a new campus on Western site with an investment of Rs.500 crores. The campus will have housing, teaching and research facilities to accommodate 3000 students, 200 faculty and 500 Ph.D students."

The NCL Director said the institution is attracting the best talent and currently it has 380 Ph.D students which is to be increased to 500 by end 2009. A new hostel for 135 students and laboratory building of 65000 sq.ft. space are being set up after development of which NCL will be one of the largest compuses for chemical science in the country.

Dr. Sivaram said a Centre Of Excellence in Micro Reaction Engineering for Pharmaceutical Intermediate process improvement has been set up and private sector companies such as Ranbaxy, Lupin, Gharda Chemicals and others are partners in the Consortium who meet regularly to come up with generic solutions to process problems and take these to the market. He said the Centre has state of art machineries which are not available with the R & D set ups of private sector in the country. The intellelctual property of generic know how is retained by NCL while these companies have the right of first refusal for the technology development. Dr. Sivaram said this is a good example of public-private partnership in research in chemical and pharmaceutical field.

A curtain raiser function is being held on 9th January 2009 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee Year of NCL's existence. The Director General of CSIR Prof. Sameer Bhattacharya would be Chief Guest on the occasion. The Diamond Jubilee is being celebrated by organizing a number of events including nine symposium/workshops on organic chemistry, catalysis, microreactor engineering, solvent media and microbiology throughout the year. A Venture Centre is being set up at NCL Innovation Park and a Polymer Research Laboratory will also be set up among the new facilities to be created at NCL. A book is being launched on the history of NCL written by former Director Prof. L. K. Doraiswamy. The last phase of the NCL Innovation Park will be inaugurated in May 2009.

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Tracing the French-Maratha Steps

· Chhatrapati Shivaji gave the territory of Pondhicherry to the French traders on annual lease of 10,000 Chachars (a South Indian currency prevalent in 17th century) on the condition of neutrality.

· The careers of the two nations in India i.e. the Marathas and the French ran concurrently. Chhatrapati Shivaji was crowned as King in the June 1674 while the French under the able leadership of Francois Martin founded Pondicherry in April 1674 as the capital of French India. The period 1690-1699 was the darkest period for both the nations as the Mughals overran the Maratha territory while the Dutch, capitulated Pondicherry. The period 1750-1754 brought the two to the zenith of there glory in India while both were crushed in 1761.

·  Shivaji’s son, Chhatrapati Rajaram offered to sale Pondicherry to French but the French representatives in India could not pay the required amount. That is why is was forced to pay the province to Dutch.

These are some of the interesting facts unearthed from an extensive research work done by a city based researcher. Umesh Kadam, senior lecturer in the history department of University of Pune has studied the relations between Marathas and French spanning over 150 years. Kadam, who is originally from Kolhapur had originally done the study for his thesis submitted over four years ago. After a stint in Shivaji University of Kolhapur and University of Pune, he made further research work in this direction. Now it is being published in book form very soon.

This is only the second attempt to study relations between Maratha empire and French and it has noted some very striking facts hitherto unheeded. Just take a look:

According to Kadam, the relations between the two were purely commercial on the side of the French and politically and commercially motivated on behalf of the Marathas. The commercial policy of the Marathas related to the Europeans clearly states that political issues of the state should be given importance and due recognition when ever there is a clash between the two policies. The French first came into contact with the Marathas in 1668. 

The Shivaji Connection

The French were granted permission by Shivaji to establish a factory at Rajapur. Shivaji was in constant conflict with the Siddi of Janjira and he needed arms and ammunition. He wanted help from the European nations and he was ready to give any place on the Konkan Coast to the nation which would supply him with arms and ammunitions. The English and the Portuguese preferred to remain neutral due to their relations with the Mughals and Bijapur, while the Dutch asked for Maratha help against the English in return for their co-operation. Shivaji at this point was not interested to arouse the English hence he turned down the Dutch offer. The French were the only nation which supplied Shivaji with guns and lead without and pre-condition. Shivaji in return gave them permission to settle at Rajapur. Shivaji with French arms was able to arm a notable fleet against the Siddi of Janjira and keep a check on the activities of the English and the Portuguese. 

Shivaji second son Rajaram had to flee to the south due to the Mughal invasion. As Marathas controlled both Jinji and Pondicherry the French came in direct day-to-day contact with the Maratha Court at Jinji. The relations between the two further worsened due to the prejudice of the French officers against the Marathas. The Marathas had demanded money, arms and ammunition, and French help against the Mughals, but the French preferred to remain neutral. The financial constraints of Rajaram forced him to sell Pondicherry. At first he gave priority to the French but they followed delaying tactics to have a better bargain. Finally Rajaram sold Pondicherry to the Dutch arch rivals of the French only because they were ready to pay a better price.

The policy of Dupleix to build a French Empire in the south of India with the help of puppet Princes brought the French in direct conflict with the Marathas. This conflict with the Marathas in real sense brought the downfall of the French in India. The French trade in Bengal was ruined due to the Maratha invasions in Bengal carried out by Raghuji Bhosale from 1741-1748. This paved way for British to establish their control in Bengal as the French evacuated their trade from Bengal and shifted their interest towards the trade on the Coromandel Coast.

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I Learned French for this work

Dr. Umesh Kadam has come from Kolhapur. After completing Master of Arts from Shivaji University, Kolhapur in 1998, he did his Ph.D. from Shivaji University, Kolhapur.

To complete my study in the relations between French and Marathas, he completed certificate course in French. He visited Biblitheque Nationale, Archives Nationale in Paris and British Library and India Office Library in London under Research Scholarships provided by Indian Council of Historical Research, New Delhi, Masion de Sciences de l’Homme, Paris and Charles Wallace India Trust, London. 

After this work, he is working on a project titled “Relations between the French and the Marathas with special reference to the French diplomatic projects in India proposed during 1761 to 1818”.  

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Wagh Nakh to Return to Land of Shivaji

Maharashtra, land of the Chhatrapati Shivaji, was missing it for the last two centuries. But Wagh Nakh, a famous weapon belonged to Shivaji Maharaj is to come to Maharashtra very soon. Maharashtra government has proposed to Victoria and Albert Museum, London in this regard. The museum has asked security to be provided and once it is cleared, the weapon will come in Mumbai first.

Wagh Nakh or Tiger Claws is one of the irregualr weapons used by Chhatrapati Shivaji. It is famous in the popular folklore of Maharashtra because of its use in killing Afzal Khan by Shivaji himself. After the fall of Maratha Empire, it was taken outside India by British officers and landed in Victoria and Albert Museum.

This weapon is being brought to Maharashtra for an exhibit and government has forwarded the proposal to the museum. Museum also has approved the idea but its decision hinges on the security aspect. Also the file for the security arrangements is doing round in Mantralaya, Mumbai.

Meera Hindocha of Press Office, V&A Museum informed Pune Mirror through a mailed reply, "I can confirm that we have received a loan request for the tiger claw weapon that may have belonged to Chhatrapati Shivaji. However, we have not yet agreed to lend the object and our decision will be dependent upon the confirmation of a suitable venue for the exhibition and the necessary security arrangements being cleared."

Asked about the developments, R. R. Patil, deputy chief minister and Home minister of Maharashtra told Mirror, "Yes, we have given the proposal. But they (the museum)want security to be arranged by us. The file has come to me some days ago and a decision in this regard will be taken soon."

Historians Speak Babasaheb Purandare, who is known for his dedication for history of Maratha Empire could not be contacted as he is is in US now. But he has described the travel of Wagh Nakh to Britain in his previous writings. According to him, Grand Duff, who was political representative of East India Company in the court of Satara might have taken this weapon to Britain. He served in the court from 1818 to 1824. He also wrote the first book on Maratha on history. He befriended the then Maharaja of Satara Chhatrapati Pratapsinh and took the weapon with him while returning. His descendants donated it to the V&A museum.

Ninad Bedekar, another historian of repute from Pune, differed on the authenticity of the weapon. "Shivbhushan, the book in Sanskrit written in the lifetime of Shivaji and by his order, says that Shivaji killed Afzalkhan with sword. This is an authentic reference. As for as the claim that weapon belonged to Shivaji, it is also shrouded in mystery. We do not find any reference suggesting that Shivaji used this weapon."

Asked as to what his reaction would be once the weapon comes here, Bedekar said, "I will still tell the facts as they are."

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Ganeshotsav started here

This wada stands on Kumthekar Road in a dilapidated condition hardly deceiving its historical significance. It was here that the Ganesh Utsav, which has assumed a staus of industry today was started by none other than Lokmanya Tilak, 'the father of Indian unrest'. Even though it has many an ancedotes of importance associated with it, the place is fighting for the survival.

Vinchurkar Wada is about two hundred and fifty years old structure with an area of about 16,000 sq. ft. It was built by Sardar Vinchurkar, who was serving in the Peshwa's court. This structure is among those which came up immediately after the Shaniwar Wada was built. Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak started the public Ganesh festival to arise the Indian people against the foreign British rule. First such festivity took place in the year of 1894.

At that time, Tilak lived in Vinchurkar Wada where he lived for 15 years before shifting to Gaikwad Wada which today is known as Kesari Wada. He lived at this place from 1892 to 1905. At the time, Tilak taught to students Law here. Therefore, the Ganesh here was known as Law Class Ganpati. After Tilak shifted to Gaikwad Wada, the Ganesh festival shifted to that place. In 1994, when the centenary of Ganesh Utsav was celebrated, the celebration was revived in Wada also.

Interestingly, this wada is also the place where Lokmanya Tilak and Swami Vivekananda stayed together. Swami Vivekananda had come to Pune with Tilak after a chance meeting in a train from Bombay. Tilak brought him and Swami Vivekananda stayed in the wada for few days discussing many subjects with Tilak and other scholars. Ironically, Tilak learnt after few years that the sanyasi he met was such a great personality. Also, Kesari, the newspaper with which Tilak fought with British Raj

But such a place is standing in a dilapidated state. Except for a room, which is occupied by Khadi and Gramodyog Mandal office, few things are there to point to this rich history. Many dignitaries have promised to revive the building but nothing has helped. Ravindra Pathare, trustee of the Lokmany Tilak Pratham Prashtapit Ganpati Trust, said, "Last year state home minister R. R. Patil came here and promised to give funds for the renovation of the Wada. But nothing has happened in the one year. We hear that the Wada has been sold by the present owner. So we are not sure whether we can have a festival next year."

"Many people and mandals have prospered by Ganeshotsav but the place where it started all has been neglected a lot. Every time we approach a leader, the person shows ignorance about the origin of the festival. The situation is quite difficult and unmanagable now," Pathare said. Deepak Tilak, great grandson of Lokmanya Tilak and chief trustee of Kesari-Maratha Trust, is the chief trustee of this trust also. "Now, we are thinking of approaching central Power minister Sushil Kumar Shinde who is now on the Kesari Maratha Trust Board," said Pathare.

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