Industrial Heritage Circuit of Pune Metro
In my latest article (http://surl.li/kzrbzy) published in the Deccan Geographer, it has been established that the Pune Metro Rail Project is not going to be just a mode of transportation. It would be a vital link connecting some of Pune's historical industrial units, showcasing rich legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Among these units is **Hindustan Antibiotics**, 💉💊 where Pune's industrial revolution began. Established with the cooperation of WHO and UNICEF, this pioneering company aimed to provide affordable medicine to all.We also have iconic players like Finolex Cables Ltd, founded in 1956 by the Chhabria brothers. Their production of PVC-insulated cables marked a significant step for Pune's automotive industry. Another gem is **ICC-Indian Card Clothing**, established in 1955, a perfect candidate for heritage tourism with its illustrious past.
These industrial units aren't just part of Pune's modern history. They are inspirational sites that can foster a passion for entrepreneurship among our youth. By creating industrial heritage tourism sites—complete with museums and exhibits—we can inspire the next generation and contribute to the "Make in India" initiative, which is aligned with our vision of "Viksit Bharat." ViksitBharat
Let's celebrate our industrial heritage and encourage young minds to explore, innovate, and lead the way into the future! 💡🌍
Wadas (Heritage Homes) Pune Metro Journey to the Past
Along the Pune metro corridor—from Shivaji Nagar to Mandai metro station and from Deccan Gymkhana to Mangalwar Peth—lies a treasure trove of architectural history: the Wadas.
These traditional Marathi homes are more than just structures; they embody the soul of Pune and the legacy of its people. The grandeur of Wadas, with their expansive multi-story courtyards and unique architectural intricacies, offers an intriguing glimpse into Pune's past. Each Wada tells a story, reflecting the lifestyles and values of its time, making them essential for anyone keen to understand the cultural fabric of the region.
Among the prominent Wadas, Mujumdar Wada stands out as the oldest after the well-known Shaniwar Wada, having been constructed in 1770 (Pune Mirror, 2018). Then there’s the historic Nagarkar Wada, built around 220 years ago by Sardar Nagarkar, which serves as a testament to the architectural prowess of its era. Nana Wada, dating back to 1780, showcases extensive timber construction. The Parasnis Wada, created in 1723 by the poet Niranjan Madhav, predates the Peshwai, while the Puranik Wada, reconstructed after being washed away by floods, was established in 1845. Shaniwar Peth is home to Renuse Wada, owned by Balwant Somajirao Renuse, while the Sardar Shitole Wada, associated with the Sisodiya Rajputs who migrated from Udaipur in the 15th century, adds to the historical narrative. Biniwale Wada, built in 1870, was the residence of military General Visaji Krushna. Perhaps most notably, Bhide Wada, established in 1848, marks a pivotal milestone in education as India’s first school for girls—a great initiative by Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule and her associate Fatima Shaikh (Medium, 2018).
Moreover, Kesari Wada, constructed by the Gaikwads in Narayan Peth, serves as a historical landmark where Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak once published the Kesari and Maratha newspapers.
The integration of the Pune metro not only enhances urban mobility but also holds the potential to rejuvenate these magnificent Wadas. Many of them are currently in a state of disrepair. With the metro's establishment, there exists an incredible opportunity to promote awareness around the preservation and conservation of these heritage structures. By doing so, we can ensure that the stories and values embedded in the Wadas continue to resonate with future generations, enriching Pune’s cultural narrative further. As we navigate the modern age, let us embrace our heritage, recognizing the importance of these architectural wonders in shaping the identity of our city.
The Wadas are not just relics of the past; they are vibrant chapters in Pune's ongoing story.
You can read the full article here: http://surl.li/kzrbzy
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