heritage
Content
PRESIDENT’S WORDS
Discover Pune, one of the most awaited event amongst all Rotaractors and Punekars, which gives wonderful opportunity to know about their city more. Pune city has got great history, values, unique culture and traditions and hence the motive behind taking up this event is nothing but to discover your city more and more. This is the 9th year of this event and now this is known as signature event of Rotaract Club Of Pune Shaniwarwada. Discover Pune is basically a treasure hunt competition across Pune city. We started this competition in the year 2006 at Rotaract level and then hosted across Pune City. People will be surprised to know that Pune has got 200+ heritage centers and we have already covered 180 locations in this 9 years. Looking at the overwhelming response from last 8 years, this time year we thought that why not to make Discover Pune as a brand? Hence this year we decide to host various competitions under one brand umbrella “Discover Pune”. This year we are taking total 5 events along with our cohost INTACH considering various elements of societies such as children, youngsters, elders and hence we are hosting competitions like Discover Pune Kids which involves Historical Drawing and Creative Writing Competition, a Heritage walk with History experts along with Photography competition. I personally feel that Discover Pune 9 is definitely going to benefit all Rotaractors, Children, Youngsters, Elders and ultimately to the community in enhancing their historical knowledge as well as knowledge about their city. Thanking You..!!
Rtr. Renu Jinturkar, President, RCPSH
FROM EDITOR’S DESK... PUNE, AN UPCOMING METRO CITY
Pune, peculiarly known as the ‘Cultural Capital’ of Maharashtra. Once known as the ‘Punavadi’ , it was a tiny village. This tiny village started flourishing during ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s’ reign. But the city got it’s real identity and value during ‘Peshwa’ empire and later during ‘British’ era. The city has been developing at a fast rate since then till the date. If we go few years back, we can immediately note the remarkable changes that have happened in very short period of time. Pune is now on the verge of becoming a ‘Metro City’ which was a small village once upon a time!! This is a major paradigm in the history Pune. Due to urbanization and industrialization the population of the city is increasing at faster rate. Constant inward migration has become reality of Pune’s urban life. Therefore ‘Traffic’ has become a major issue of the fast growing city. According to latest survey Pune has 34 lac vehicles which is a matter of concern. Hence strong and effective and well planned public transport is much needed to restrict the increasing number of vehicles and eventually pollution caused by them. ‘Pune Metro Rail Project’ is the effective solution for this situation. Though the project is in dispute due to some reasons it surely will help to decrease the traffic load of the city which was once known as’ शहर’.
The preparation of detailed project report (DPR) work was undertaken by the ‘Delhi Metro Corporation’ and they submitted their report on 15 August 2008. The ‘DPR’ was approved by Maharashtra Government on 12th June 2012. There was a dispute amongst people of city whether the routes should be elevated or underground. Because according to them the roads of the city cannot bear more traffic that will occur due to the construction of ‘elevated routes’. And also some roads are too narrow to accommodate any type of construction, underground or elevated. But later in 2012 PMC declared that all the routes will be elevated. Two phases have been identified for the implementation of project. First phase includes two routes which are, 1.Vanaz-Ramwadi via Deccan gymkhana (14.9 km, elevated) 2. Chinchwad-Pimpri-Swargate via Agriculture college (16.5 km elevated/underground). Second phase includes two main routes and the extensions to routes in Phase 1. 1. Deccan Gymkhana-Bund Garden (11 km underground) 2. ASI- Hinjewadi (18 km elevated). The Pune Metro Project is likely to get financial assistance from the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA), a Government of Japan enterprise. The Rs 2,593-crore mass transit project in Pune, modelled on the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, will get contributions from the Centre and will be funded by the Pune Municipal Corporation and the state government. Still, there are disputes between various citizen’s organizations and Pune corporation about the technical flaws in the proposals, but eventually they will be resolved for the betterment of City’s environment and traffic issues. Let’s prove that ‘ ’ !!! Rtr Saudamini Inamdar Editor, RCPSH
TEMPLES IN PUNE AND HOW THEY GOT THEIR NAMES..!!
Ever wondered why Murlidhar in Sadashiv Peth is called "Khunya" (murderous!) or Modi Ganpati was called "Bomblya" (shouting) Ganpati or for that matter, Marutis in Pune have names like Bhangya (liquor), Dulya (swaying), Patrya (tin sheet), Sonya (golden), and so on.....??? Got answers to all these questions, thanks to INTACH’s Heritage Katta which takes place every alternate Saturday 6pm at MMCA College. Shri Mandar Lawate, honorary historian in pune was first guest at katta who explained all of this to us with his knowledgeable speech. Pune, as the records suggest had 4 major temples before the era of shivaji. Kasba Ganpati the Gramdaivat of pune, Kedareshwar, situated in the premises of kasba ganpati temple, Narayaneshwar and Punnyeshwar. It is believed that Pune earlier known as punavadi got its name from the temple Punnyeshwar. The first 2 still exist and later 2 got converted into Shaikh Sallas thorala and dhakala, which still stand in kasaba peth and shaniwar peth. Pune has countless number of temples mostly located in core area of city or peths. Only kasba peth has around 70 unique temples. As the temples are unique their names are also very much interesting and makes one curious to find out how exactly these sometimes strange names came along or originated. As we always start any good activity with bowing down to Lord ganapati, lets start with names of ganapati temple. Modi ganapati: This temple got its name upon a person
Khushrushet Modi, who is believed to have built this temple which is located in Narayan peth. Chimnya ganapati is also one interesting name which is now days known for its famous lighting in ganapati festival got this name because sparrows (chimni in marathi) used to come to this place for picking rice. Gundacha ganapati which is in kasba peth got its name from person Nagoji Gunda who was a close associate to peshwa minister Nana Phadanvis. Talking about peshwas, they used to distribute goods (dakshina) to all Brahmins in pune every year. There was special place where this distribution used to take place called as Ramana, which was towards current sahakar nagar side of Parvati. One can still find temple of Ramana ganapti there. Some temples got names from surrounding such as Umbrya ganapati which is below fig tree (umbarache zaad). Some got names by worshipping community, such as Madras ganapati which is near Apollo talkies. A 3 trunk Ganesh idol unlike typical single trunk idol represents the temple of Trishund ganapati, located in somwar peth. There is story about how ganapati lost his left tooth, however the Junya Jaicha Ganapati in shukravar peth has right one broken. Usually all ganapati idols are in seating position however one opposite sarasbaug has in standing posture.
From ganaptis we turn our attention to goddesses (devi). Everyone knows about Tambadi Jogeshwari, but pune has actually 3 jogeshwari temples. Tambadi (red), Piwali (yellow) and kali (black). Kali jogeshwari has black statue which has 3 eyes and is located in bhudhwar peth. Piwali jodeshwari is in Shukravar peth. Pune has some temples of Lord Rama and Datta also. Bhajiram temple (narayan peth) got its name because there used to be vegetable market nearby. Datta temples also have some interesting names such as Dadhiwale Datta (kunte chowk). Pune has maximum number of lord hanuman / maruti temples with very interesting names. Maruti is considered as rakshak devata (savior lord). The statue of maruti could be of 3 types. One having mountain in his hand is termed as pratap maruti, one with gada in his hand is termed as vir maruti and one which is standing with hands held together with greeting gesture is termed as daas maruti. Dulya maruti (swaying) is one famous temple in pune. Got its name from peshwas, it’s assumed that peshwas used to come seating on a elephant here seeking permission to go for war to this particular maruti. Vir meaning brave, as name suggest got its name based on brave soldiers who won and came back from war during peshwa era. Bhikardas Maruti which everyone knows got its name from savkar (money vendor) whose name was Bhikardas. Idol of maruti is usually oriented to look towards left or straight. But there is statue near Chatushrungi (meaning located between 4 hills), which is oriented to look at right called chapetdan maruti. Akra (11) maruti got its name from idol of maruti in ram mandir built by peshwa sardar bapu gokhale which is located in shukravar peth. Maruti temple in front of shaniwarwada is called as batatya (potato) maruti because there used to be potato market in this place. During 17th century kasba peth used to form boundary wall of pune city. A temple next to this wall is called gavkos (boundary of city) maruti. Ravivar peth used to have jewelers market, still has one. Hence maruti temple here is called sonya (golden) maruti and bhangya maruti got its name because liquor used to sold here. Pune has maruti idols of all sizes; biggest one in nana peth being around 12 feet high and smallest you can find on laxmi road, near vijay talkies next to road near stalls of shawls, sweaters, which is 1 inch tall. Pune also has Untya (camel) maruti in the name of the place which was earlier used to tie down camels. Some temples got their name with belief that Lord can cure a disease such has Potsulya maruti on laxmi road. Patrya maruti got its name because the temple was built using tin shades which were used in sasoon hospital. However there are still some maruti temples with varied names like achanak maruti, bandivaan maruti (gurvar peth) or satyavan maruti; the reason of their existence and meaning of the names is still to be discovered. Pune has 2 very famous vitthal temples. Nivdungya vithoda which names so because it’s below eucalyptus tree and palakhi vithoba which got this name because the annual palakhi procession makes its halt at this place.
These are just some of the temples which we come across our day to day life; however there are many other unknown ones still not listed anywhere which are located inside old wadas, privately owned building etc. Many stories are unknown, untold. Makes us curious to know where they come from.
*The credit of all the information presented in this article goes to Historian Mr Mandar Lawate. This is just descriptive notation of notes taken from his speech.
Madhur Barve Founder, Discover Pune
It was year 2010 and it was my first time for Discover Pune. I remember I enjoyed so much volunteering for this game. I also came to know how little I know about the city I was born in, the city I grew up in and the city I am going to spend most of my life. How blessed are we that we live in a city with such a rich culture, heritage and history. Last year when I became the chairperson for this event, I was overwhelmed. I had attended only one discover pune before and had no clue how things were supposed to be done or managed. I knew it was a big task, but fortunately I always got the needed support from my parents, my club members, the president and of course Madhur. And with their support we were able to take the event to a new level last year with ‘Discover Pune 8, Code Red’. The learning experience was tremendous and I got to learn many things. This year we thought of taking it to another level up. Hence all my club members came up with different ideas to expand but we finally narrowed it down to a free creative writing and drawing competition for school kids, a free guided tour of Shaniwarwada for kids, free heritage walk for all, a heritage photography competition and of course our main heritage treasure hunt. With a new concept every year with new locations every year, we hope you enjoy this event and support us by participating in huge numbers every year. Thank you.
Rtr Rohan Kanitkar Member, RCPSH
RIVER POLLUTION IN PUNE
Pune is a classic case of overconsumption; the Municipal Corporation is currently supplying water sufficient for the projected population in 2050. Shocking, isn’t it? More water means more sewage, beyond what sewage treatment plants can treat. Thus greater pollution loads are discharged into the rivers that serve to flush away Pune's excreta. Pune has adequate water from the Khadakwasla dam but its intra-city distribution is uneven, resulting in enormous quantities of waste water and sewage. The quality of water in the main rivers of Pune i.e. Mula and Mutha, has deteriorated over the years. The Environmental Status Report states the decrease in Dissolved Oxygen level in both rivers. The DO levels in Mutha starts decreasing as it enters the city near Vitthalwadi with the river recording 0 DO near the Sangam Bridge. The pollution level at Mhatre Bridge, Erandawane, SM Joshi bridge, Savarkar Bridge and railway near Sancheti Hospital is greater. Also the biological oxygen demand level in river water, except Vitthalwadi and Mhatre Bridge, are above the norms set by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board. Even the three nalas of Ambil Odha, Nagzira and Bhairoba have recorded high pollution and chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand, and low DO level. All these facts are of great concern. The PMC is concentrating on canalization, strengthening and lining the river banks, removing encroachments, creating retaining walls and resettling slums. The state government plans to experiment with reverse osmosis technique and has also suggested the "one ward, one Ganapati" motto. This means that only one ‘sarvajanik' (public) Ganapati should be installed in each municipal ward during the festival. Apart from the above, on an individual level, we should take measures like avoid throwing waste into water bodies, preventing idol immersion during festivals, volunteering for river cleaning projects, etc. I feel that the condition of the rivers in our city is in our hands, to an extent. Rivers are nature’s gift to civilization, and I think they deserve more care than they have been receiving!
Rtr Rituja Bande Secretary, RCPSH
PUNERI ‘PATYA’ ANI ‘PUNYACHI LOKA’
Pune is rightly known as “Oxford of the East”. We often describe Pune in one line as ‘Pune tithe kay une’. These sentences give you little idea about Pune. This city has very interesting and funny things in it which attract people from all over the world.The most important ones are ‘Puneri Pati’ and ‘Puneri loka’. I think these two are the predominant ‘features’ which you experience when you are living in Pune. And if you are a ‘First-timer’ to Pune, well, I think you need to get familiar to these things quickly as these are the ‘integral part’ of Pune city’s culture. The people originating from Pune are known to be Punekars, more correctly, Assal Punekars. If you want to be a Punekar you have to follow certain rules in your day to day life. “The rules are described below”: 1. 2. You will not follow the traffic rules at all. If you are given a time to reach somewhere at 7 p.m., you will leave your home at 7 p.m. (Every Punekar strictly follows it .This rule I follow most of the times I think). 3. 4. 5. Even if you commit a mistake you are always right so you should be ready to defend yourself all the time. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. is always sleeping time neglecting the fact that whether you are in office,school,college,etc. or not. You should give people free advices on any topic they want instantly as Punekars are always ready for it.(Great presence of mind I should say). 6.
Assal Punekar is a great ‘Eater’. Make sure that you have
visited Hotel ‘Vaishali’ at least once in your life. (Important one).
7.
And at last(certainly not the least), you are a perfectionist and need not improve in anything.
No offence, but I feel these are the qualities that almost all
Punekars possess.
In spite of these, there is something about the people of Pune which has caused the outsiders to envy this city.
Punekars have always been the most energetic and enthusiastic.
Of all the cities I have visited, for me, Pune is the most ‘happening’ city. There is something going on around the city continuously. These people are the festivities and are known to preserve their culture. There are so many festivals going on whole year but every festival is celebrated with the same energy. ‘Ganeshotsav’ (Ganpati festival) of Pune is a grand one and one of the characteristics of this city. The kind of excitement that Ganpati ‘Miravnuks’ bring with them is really amazing. It is attended by many foreigners also every year. There is freshness all around and has perfect ambience every citizen would love to be a part of. According to a survey, Pune is the fastest
developing city in Asia. Well, that tells you a lot.
I have to mention it here that ahead of the recent unfortunate rape incident in Delhi, Pune girls are definitely safe and are given the respect they deserve. Women here are protected better. I am a proud Punekar and will always be.The most funny thing in Pune is the popular ‘Puneri Pati’. I can’t say much about these ‘Patis’. They are the most sarcastic. You should have a look at them. It is a great entertainment. Don’t be surprised if someone makes a documentary on this in coming years.All I can say is, Pune is very special for me and with its positives and negatives everyone of us loves this city. Soon, It is going to be a ‘Metro’ city. I hope it will become one of the top cities in the world in next 10-20 years.
Rtr Sujay Inamdar CSD, SAA RCPSH
AVENUES OF PUNE
After India's independence, Pune acquired the status of an educational and research hub with the establishment of the University of Pune, the National Defence Academy (NDA), National Chemical Laboratory and many other leading institutes. The heart of the Maratha empire in the days of yore, Pune is the 2nd largest city in Maharashtra and is also the capital of Pune district. Located around 120 kilometres from Mumbai, the commercial capital of India, Pune is famous for its educational institutions earning it the sobriquet "Oxford of the East." Education, arts and crafts, and theatre have always enjoyed a pride of place in Pune, home to one of India's oldest universities. With the express highway providing fast connectivity between Pune and Mumbai, Pune's importance has grown by leaps and bounds. Pune represents a fusion of the old and the new, of the traditional and the modern, of quaint old wadas and glitzy malls. Surrounded by greenery and blessed with a salubrious climate, Pune is sure to create a lasting impression in your mind. Even today Pune is considered as the cultural hub of Maharashtra along with the educational importance it already has. The people of Pune are considered to have a very unique style and a typical lingo, popularly known as “Puneri Bhasha”. It is said that if you want to meet a genuine “Punekar” then Sadashiv Peth is the place! But in recent years as many students and professionals from around India and also the world are coming to Pune for education and IT hub, Pune is getting more exposed to other cultures of India and world. This can be seen evidently in the today’s youth as the trends are changing. But even today, some things are very sought after in Pune like Misal Pav, rickshaw ride, Vaishali, Good Luck Cafe, FC Road, JM Road, MG Road, Durga’s coffee, etc .... The list is endless.... I am sure this must have brought a smile on your face!! Last but not the least; it is aptly said “Pune tithe kay Une”.
Rtr Parag Bhide ISD, RCPSH
Discover Pune, one of the most awaited event amongst all Rotaractors and Punekars, which gives wonderful opportunity to know about their city more. Pune city has got great history, values, unique culture and traditions and hence the motive behind taking up this event is nothing but to discover your city more and more. This is the 9th year of this event and now this is known as signature event of Rotaract Club Of Pune Shaniwarwada. Discover Pune is basically a treasure hunt competition across Pune city. We started this competition in the year 2006 at Rotaract level and then hosted across Pune City. People will be surprised to know that Pune has got 200+ heritage centers and we have already covered 180 locations in this 9 years. Looking at the overwhelming response from last 8 years, this time year we thought that why not to make Discover Pune as a brand? Hence this year we decide to host various competitions under one brand umbrella “Discover Pune”. This year we are taking total 5 events along with our cohost INTACH considering various elements of societies such as children, youngsters, elders and hence we are hosting competitions like Discover Pune Kids which involves Historical Drawing and Creative Writing Competition, a Heritage walk with History experts along with Photography competition. I personally feel that Discover Pune 9 is definitely going to benefit all Rotaractors, Children, Youngsters, Elders and ultimately to the community in enhancing their historical knowledge as well as knowledge about their city. Thanking You..!!
Rtr. Renu Jinturkar, President, RCPSH
FROM EDITOR’S DESK... PUNE, AN UPCOMING METRO CITY
Pune, peculiarly known as the ‘Cultural Capital’ of Maharashtra. Once known as the ‘Punavadi’ , it was a tiny village. This tiny village started flourishing during ‘Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s’ reign. But the city got it’s real identity and value during ‘Peshwa’ empire and later during ‘British’ era. The city has been developing at a fast rate since then till the date. If we go few years back, we can immediately note the remarkable changes that have happened in very short period of time. Pune is now on the verge of becoming a ‘Metro City’ which was a small village once upon a time!! This is a major paradigm in the history Pune. Due to urbanization and industrialization the population of the city is increasing at faster rate. Constant inward migration has become reality of Pune’s urban life. Therefore ‘Traffic’ has become a major issue of the fast growing city. According to latest survey Pune has 34 lac vehicles which is a matter of concern. Hence strong and effective and well planned public transport is much needed to restrict the increasing number of vehicles and eventually pollution caused by them. ‘Pune Metro Rail Project’ is the effective solution for this situation. Though the project is in dispute due to some reasons it surely will help to decrease the traffic load of the city which was once known as’ शहर’.
The preparation of detailed project report (DPR) work was undertaken by the ‘Delhi Metro Corporation’ and they submitted their report on 15 August 2008. The ‘DPR’ was approved by Maharashtra Government on 12th June 2012. There was a dispute amongst people of city whether the routes should be elevated or underground. Because according to them the roads of the city cannot bear more traffic that will occur due to the construction of ‘elevated routes’. And also some roads are too narrow to accommodate any type of construction, underground or elevated. But later in 2012 PMC declared that all the routes will be elevated. Two phases have been identified for the implementation of project. First phase includes two routes which are, 1.Vanaz-Ramwadi via Deccan gymkhana (14.9 km, elevated) 2. Chinchwad-Pimpri-Swargate via Agriculture college (16.5 km elevated/underground). Second phase includes two main routes and the extensions to routes in Phase 1. 1. Deccan Gymkhana-Bund Garden (11 km underground) 2. ASI- Hinjewadi (18 km elevated). The Pune Metro Project is likely to get financial assistance from the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA), a Government of Japan enterprise. The Rs 2,593-crore mass transit project in Pune, modelled on the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, will get contributions from the Centre and will be funded by the Pune Municipal Corporation and the state government. Still, there are disputes between various citizen’s organizations and Pune corporation about the technical flaws in the proposals, but eventually they will be resolved for the betterment of City’s environment and traffic issues. Let’s prove that ‘ ’ !!! Rtr Saudamini Inamdar Editor, RCPSH
TEMPLES IN PUNE AND HOW THEY GOT THEIR NAMES..!!
Ever wondered why Murlidhar in Sadashiv Peth is called "Khunya" (murderous!) or Modi Ganpati was called "Bomblya" (shouting) Ganpati or for that matter, Marutis in Pune have names like Bhangya (liquor), Dulya (swaying), Patrya (tin sheet), Sonya (golden), and so on.....??? Got answers to all these questions, thanks to INTACH’s Heritage Katta which takes place every alternate Saturday 6pm at MMCA College. Shri Mandar Lawate, honorary historian in pune was first guest at katta who explained all of this to us with his knowledgeable speech. Pune, as the records suggest had 4 major temples before the era of shivaji. Kasba Ganpati the Gramdaivat of pune, Kedareshwar, situated in the premises of kasba ganpati temple, Narayaneshwar and Punnyeshwar. It is believed that Pune earlier known as punavadi got its name from the temple Punnyeshwar. The first 2 still exist and later 2 got converted into Shaikh Sallas thorala and dhakala, which still stand in kasaba peth and shaniwar peth. Pune has countless number of temples mostly located in core area of city or peths. Only kasba peth has around 70 unique temples. As the temples are unique their names are also very much interesting and makes one curious to find out how exactly these sometimes strange names came along or originated. As we always start any good activity with bowing down to Lord ganapati, lets start with names of ganapati temple. Modi ganapati: This temple got its name upon a person
Khushrushet Modi, who is believed to have built this temple which is located in Narayan peth. Chimnya ganapati is also one interesting name which is now days known for its famous lighting in ganapati festival got this name because sparrows (chimni in marathi) used to come to this place for picking rice. Gundacha ganapati which is in kasba peth got its name from person Nagoji Gunda who was a close associate to peshwa minister Nana Phadanvis. Talking about peshwas, they used to distribute goods (dakshina) to all Brahmins in pune every year. There was special place where this distribution used to take place called as Ramana, which was towards current sahakar nagar side of Parvati. One can still find temple of Ramana ganapti there. Some temples got names from surrounding such as Umbrya ganapati which is below fig tree (umbarache zaad). Some got names by worshipping community, such as Madras ganapati which is near Apollo talkies. A 3 trunk Ganesh idol unlike typical single trunk idol represents the temple of Trishund ganapati, located in somwar peth. There is story about how ganapati lost his left tooth, however the Junya Jaicha Ganapati in shukravar peth has right one broken. Usually all ganapati idols are in seating position however one opposite sarasbaug has in standing posture.
From ganaptis we turn our attention to goddesses (devi). Everyone knows about Tambadi Jogeshwari, but pune has actually 3 jogeshwari temples. Tambadi (red), Piwali (yellow) and kali (black). Kali jogeshwari has black statue which has 3 eyes and is located in bhudhwar peth. Piwali jodeshwari is in Shukravar peth. Pune has some temples of Lord Rama and Datta also. Bhajiram temple (narayan peth) got its name because there used to be vegetable market nearby. Datta temples also have some interesting names such as Dadhiwale Datta (kunte chowk). Pune has maximum number of lord hanuman / maruti temples with very interesting names. Maruti is considered as rakshak devata (savior lord). The statue of maruti could be of 3 types. One having mountain in his hand is termed as pratap maruti, one with gada in his hand is termed as vir maruti and one which is standing with hands held together with greeting gesture is termed as daas maruti. Dulya maruti (swaying) is one famous temple in pune. Got its name from peshwas, it’s assumed that peshwas used to come seating on a elephant here seeking permission to go for war to this particular maruti. Vir meaning brave, as name suggest got its name based on brave soldiers who won and came back from war during peshwa era. Bhikardas Maruti which everyone knows got its name from savkar (money vendor) whose name was Bhikardas. Idol of maruti is usually oriented to look towards left or straight. But there is statue near Chatushrungi (meaning located between 4 hills), which is oriented to look at right called chapetdan maruti. Akra (11) maruti got its name from idol of maruti in ram mandir built by peshwa sardar bapu gokhale which is located in shukravar peth. Maruti temple in front of shaniwarwada is called as batatya (potato) maruti because there used to be potato market in this place. During 17th century kasba peth used to form boundary wall of pune city. A temple next to this wall is called gavkos (boundary of city) maruti. Ravivar peth used to have jewelers market, still has one. Hence maruti temple here is called sonya (golden) maruti and bhangya maruti got its name because liquor used to sold here. Pune has maruti idols of all sizes; biggest one in nana peth being around 12 feet high and smallest you can find on laxmi road, near vijay talkies next to road near stalls of shawls, sweaters, which is 1 inch tall. Pune also has Untya (camel) maruti in the name of the place which was earlier used to tie down camels. Some temples got their name with belief that Lord can cure a disease such has Potsulya maruti on laxmi road. Patrya maruti got its name because the temple was built using tin shades which were used in sasoon hospital. However there are still some maruti temples with varied names like achanak maruti, bandivaan maruti (gurvar peth) or satyavan maruti; the reason of their existence and meaning of the names is still to be discovered. Pune has 2 very famous vitthal temples. Nivdungya vithoda which names so because it’s below eucalyptus tree and palakhi vithoba which got this name because the annual palakhi procession makes its halt at this place.
These are just some of the temples which we come across our day to day life; however there are many other unknown ones still not listed anywhere which are located inside old wadas, privately owned building etc. Many stories are unknown, untold. Makes us curious to know where they come from.
*The credit of all the information presented in this article goes to Historian Mr Mandar Lawate. This is just descriptive notation of notes taken from his speech.
Madhur Barve Founder, Discover Pune
It was year 2010 and it was my first time for Discover Pune. I remember I enjoyed so much volunteering for this game. I also came to know how little I know about the city I was born in, the city I grew up in and the city I am going to spend most of my life. How blessed are we that we live in a city with such a rich culture, heritage and history. Last year when I became the chairperson for this event, I was overwhelmed. I had attended only one discover pune before and had no clue how things were supposed to be done or managed. I knew it was a big task, but fortunately I always got the needed support from my parents, my club members, the president and of course Madhur. And with their support we were able to take the event to a new level last year with ‘Discover Pune 8, Code Red’. The learning experience was tremendous and I got to learn many things. This year we thought of taking it to another level up. Hence all my club members came up with different ideas to expand but we finally narrowed it down to a free creative writing and drawing competition for school kids, a free guided tour of Shaniwarwada for kids, free heritage walk for all, a heritage photography competition and of course our main heritage treasure hunt. With a new concept every year with new locations every year, we hope you enjoy this event and support us by participating in huge numbers every year. Thank you.
Rtr Rohan Kanitkar Member, RCPSH
RIVER POLLUTION IN PUNE
Pune is a classic case of overconsumption; the Municipal Corporation is currently supplying water sufficient for the projected population in 2050. Shocking, isn’t it? More water means more sewage, beyond what sewage treatment plants can treat. Thus greater pollution loads are discharged into the rivers that serve to flush away Pune's excreta. Pune has adequate water from the Khadakwasla dam but its intra-city distribution is uneven, resulting in enormous quantities of waste water and sewage. The quality of water in the main rivers of Pune i.e. Mula and Mutha, has deteriorated over the years. The Environmental Status Report states the decrease in Dissolved Oxygen level in both rivers. The DO levels in Mutha starts decreasing as it enters the city near Vitthalwadi with the river recording 0 DO near the Sangam Bridge. The pollution level at Mhatre Bridge, Erandawane, SM Joshi bridge, Savarkar Bridge and railway near Sancheti Hospital is greater. Also the biological oxygen demand level in river water, except Vitthalwadi and Mhatre Bridge, are above the norms set by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board. Even the three nalas of Ambil Odha, Nagzira and Bhairoba have recorded high pollution and chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand, and low DO level. All these facts are of great concern. The PMC is concentrating on canalization, strengthening and lining the river banks, removing encroachments, creating retaining walls and resettling slums. The state government plans to experiment with reverse osmosis technique and has also suggested the "one ward, one Ganapati" motto. This means that only one ‘sarvajanik' (public) Ganapati should be installed in each municipal ward during the festival. Apart from the above, on an individual level, we should take measures like avoid throwing waste into water bodies, preventing idol immersion during festivals, volunteering for river cleaning projects, etc. I feel that the condition of the rivers in our city is in our hands, to an extent. Rivers are nature’s gift to civilization, and I think they deserve more care than they have been receiving!
Rtr Rituja Bande Secretary, RCPSH
PUNERI ‘PATYA’ ANI ‘PUNYACHI LOKA’
Pune is rightly known as “Oxford of the East”. We often describe Pune in one line as ‘Pune tithe kay une’. These sentences give you little idea about Pune. This city has very interesting and funny things in it which attract people from all over the world.The most important ones are ‘Puneri Pati’ and ‘Puneri loka’. I think these two are the predominant ‘features’ which you experience when you are living in Pune. And if you are a ‘First-timer’ to Pune, well, I think you need to get familiar to these things quickly as these are the ‘integral part’ of Pune city’s culture. The people originating from Pune are known to be Punekars, more correctly, Assal Punekars. If you want to be a Punekar you have to follow certain rules in your day to day life. “The rules are described below”: 1. 2. You will not follow the traffic rules at all. If you are given a time to reach somewhere at 7 p.m., you will leave your home at 7 p.m. (Every Punekar strictly follows it .This rule I follow most of the times I think). 3. 4. 5. Even if you commit a mistake you are always right so you should be ready to defend yourself all the time. 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. is always sleeping time neglecting the fact that whether you are in office,school,college,etc. or not. You should give people free advices on any topic they want instantly as Punekars are always ready for it.(Great presence of mind I should say). 6.
Assal Punekar is a great ‘Eater’. Make sure that you have
visited Hotel ‘Vaishali’ at least once in your life. (Important one).
7.
And at last(certainly not the least), you are a perfectionist and need not improve in anything.
No offence, but I feel these are the qualities that almost all
Punekars possess.
In spite of these, there is something about the people of Pune which has caused the outsiders to envy this city.
Punekars have always been the most energetic and enthusiastic.
Of all the cities I have visited, for me, Pune is the most ‘happening’ city. There is something going on around the city continuously. These people are the festivities and are known to preserve their culture. There are so many festivals going on whole year but every festival is celebrated with the same energy. ‘Ganeshotsav’ (Ganpati festival) of Pune is a grand one and one of the characteristics of this city. The kind of excitement that Ganpati ‘Miravnuks’ bring with them is really amazing. It is attended by many foreigners also every year. There is freshness all around and has perfect ambience every citizen would love to be a part of. According to a survey, Pune is the fastest
developing city in Asia. Well, that tells you a lot.
I have to mention it here that ahead of the recent unfortunate rape incident in Delhi, Pune girls are definitely safe and are given the respect they deserve. Women here are protected better. I am a proud Punekar and will always be.The most funny thing in Pune is the popular ‘Puneri Pati’. I can’t say much about these ‘Patis’. They are the most sarcastic. You should have a look at them. It is a great entertainment. Don’t be surprised if someone makes a documentary on this in coming years.All I can say is, Pune is very special for me and with its positives and negatives everyone of us loves this city. Soon, It is going to be a ‘Metro’ city. I hope it will become one of the top cities in the world in next 10-20 years.
Rtr Sujay Inamdar CSD, SAA RCPSH
AVENUES OF PUNE
After India's independence, Pune acquired the status of an educational and research hub with the establishment of the University of Pune, the National Defence Academy (NDA), National Chemical Laboratory and many other leading institutes. The heart of the Maratha empire in the days of yore, Pune is the 2nd largest city in Maharashtra and is also the capital of Pune district. Located around 120 kilometres from Mumbai, the commercial capital of India, Pune is famous for its educational institutions earning it the sobriquet "Oxford of the East." Education, arts and crafts, and theatre have always enjoyed a pride of place in Pune, home to one of India's oldest universities. With the express highway providing fast connectivity between Pune and Mumbai, Pune's importance has grown by leaps and bounds. Pune represents a fusion of the old and the new, of the traditional and the modern, of quaint old wadas and glitzy malls. Surrounded by greenery and blessed with a salubrious climate, Pune is sure to create a lasting impression in your mind. Even today Pune is considered as the cultural hub of Maharashtra along with the educational importance it already has. The people of Pune are considered to have a very unique style and a typical lingo, popularly known as “Puneri Bhasha”. It is said that if you want to meet a genuine “Punekar” then Sadashiv Peth is the place! But in recent years as many students and professionals from around India and also the world are coming to Pune for education and IT hub, Pune is getting more exposed to other cultures of India and world. This can be seen evidently in the today’s youth as the trends are changing. But even today, some things are very sought after in Pune like Misal Pav, rickshaw ride, Vaishali, Good Luck Cafe, FC Road, JM Road, MG Road, Durga’s coffee, etc .... The list is endless.... I am sure this must have brought a smile on your face!! Last but not the least; it is aptly said “Pune tithe kay Une”.
Rtr Parag Bhide ISD, RCPSH
