Pune Ghost:-
Among the most highly respected 18th-century fortresses is the Shaniwarwada Fort in Pune: history, grandeur, and mystery. Born in 1732, this was the fortress of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire. For many centuries, Shaniwarwada has seen battles, power struggles, and as will be revealed, tragedy. However, few know that beyond the architectural beauty and historical significance, there is another famous eerie legend that has captured generations. It is said that the young prince’s ghost haunts and at nights of full moons, his mournful cries can be heard within the wall of one of the most powerful forts in the history of Shaniwarwada.
Now, let’s open up this wonderful legend tale of tragedy and see what the truth behind those haunted tales about Shaniwarwada Fort is.
The story of Shaniwarwada Fort:
Before we think that the haunted stories are true, it would help to understand what’s behind Shaniwarwada and its historical and cultural value. The fort was built to serve as a dwelling for Peshwas, an establishment to prioritize the splendor of Maratha leaders. Indeed, Shaniwarwada, constructed with immense precision ornamented with intricate wooden carvings, fountains, and sprawling gardens, was a jewel in Pune’s crown.
The series of disasters it precipitated soon followed. The most notorious event, however, was the murder of young Narayanrao, the fifth Peshwa of the Maratha Empire, whose death is said to be the source of the haunting.
The Ghost of Narayanrao: A Legend
The haunting tale of Shaniwarwada revolves around the murder of 18-year-old Peshwa Narayanrao. In 1773, Narayanrao ascended to the throne, thrusting the family feud on the government in bitter form. His regent was his uncle, Raghunathrao, with their relationship turning sour fast, promoted as it was by mutual political rivalries and suspicion.
A Tragic Conspiracy: It was these tensions that eventually led to an assassination. According to various versions, Anandibai, the wife of Raghunathrao manipulated an edict issued by ordering for capture of Narayanrao by changing one Marathi word to “maaraa”. On that night, sheaths, assassins attacked the Palace where Narayanrao’s screams could be heard with “Kaka, mala vachwa!” – (“Uncle, save me!”)- and of course, no one came his rescue, he was later murdered.
It is said that even till date, his ghostly voice continues to cry those haunting words into the night air on full moon nights, pleading help at the last beat of his desperate heart. His tragic and betrayal death are said to have bound his spirit to Shaniwarwada, so much so that it is one of the most famous haunted places in India.
Exploration of the Shaniwarwada Fort-Paranormal Experience
Actually, this has been said to happen for many decades on end, starting from as far back as the visitors’ and locals’ reports of ghostly happenings within the fort. According to legend:
Cries in Full Moon Nights: According to many, one can still hear Narayanrao crying for help, particularly during full moon nights. Visitors describe it as chilling and haunting-an unease that seems to seep into the silent corridors.
Feeling of being watched : Many visitors have felt strange feelings that they are under some kind of observation, especially near the supposed place of murder of Narayanrao.
The reluctance of Guards to Stay After Sunset: For decades it was a widely believed fact that guards stationed at the fort leave before sunset. They did not want to stay at a place so dominantly known for supernatural activities.
Stories abound, however, of no actual evidence suggesting Shaniwarwada is actually haunted. Paranormal experts have been to the location, and although some can claim to have audio recordings of strange noises, the haunting of the fort is still a subject of speculation and folklore.
It is believed that Shaniwarwada is haunted for several reasons.
There are numerous reasons why people refer to the Shaniwarwada reputation as ghostly:
A sad history: The brutal murder and betrayal of an 18-year-old ruler make for an effective but heartbreaking story. The tragic fate attached with emotions to Narayanrao makes the reason as to why the spirit could be disturbed.
Cultural Beliefs In Indian culture, the belief is that the souls who die unnatural or violent deaths may remain on the grounds where they died. Since the murder took place inside his mansion, this thought is more plausible that the soul of Narayanrao resides at Shaniwarwada.
Mystery Atmosphere: The burnt walls of Shaniwarwada, its broken pieces of former glory, darkened corridors can surely mystify and intimidate all the more once dusk sets in on that hour with silhouettes on its stones.
Full Moon Superstitions: Many cultures believe that paranormal activity increases during a full moon. The addition of the cries said to have been heard by Narayanrao adds to the legend.
Visit Shaniwarwada: Fact vs. Folklore
Shaniwarwada remains one of the favorite tourist spots, though in ruins. They visit to have a look at the place, appreciate the splendor of its architecture, and feel the excitement of walking through a place full of ghostly tales. Well, the fort officially shuts the gates to the public after sunset, while tours during the day would give a feel of the grandeur of the Peshwas, defensive structures of the fort, and also the lush gardens.
Whether you are a ghost-believer or not, a visit to Shaniwarwada will surely leave a mark. History combined with mystery in the air is a high dose of atmosphere. Many come out after visiting it with a sense of curiosity, and some may even feel a bit of unease—even though the full moon is almost around the corner.
Final Thoughts: Haunted or Not?
Then, is Shaniwarwada Fort haunted? Experiences cannot be proved again, but the ghostly legend of Narayanrao goes well with this fort. The story reminds us of the complex and tragic history of this fort, adding an element of intrigue to this historical site.
If it is any aspect related to history or hauntings, Shaniwarwada is quite a sight – a unique mirage of folk tales and reality. It is where the splendor of the Maratha Empire meets the whispering murmurs of a tragic past as one steps into the world of history alive perhaps, so are the whispers of the past.
If you ever happen to visit Shaniwarwada Fort during a full moon night, listen carefully. Chances are that you might hear a faint, lingering cry- “Kaka, mala vachwa.”.
