Pune: Archaeology Department Requests Restrictions On Vat Pournima Rituals At Mahatma Phule WadaÂ
Pune: Archaeology Department Requests Restrictions On Vat Pournima Rituals At Mahatma Phule WadaÂ
Pune, June 5, 2026: The Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Pune Division, has urged the city police to prevent the conduct of Vat Pournima rituals within the premises of the historic Mahatma Phule Wada in Ganj Peth, citing the site’s protected status and its association with social reformers Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule.
In a communication sent to the Pune Police Commissioner, Assistant Director of Archaeology Dr. Vilas Vahane stated that the wada is a state-protected monument of significant historical and social importance. The site is widely recognized for the pioneering work undertaken there by the Phule couple in the fields of education, social equality, and reform.
The request pertains to a banyan tree located within the monument complex, where married women traditionally gather during Vat Pournima to perform rituals and tie sacred threads around the tree as part of the observance.
According to the department, such religious practices do not align with the progressive values and reformist principles advocated by Mahatma Phule and Savitribai Phule, who dedicated their lives to combating social discrimination, outdated customs, and superstition.
The department’s appeal follows a representation submitted by Prashant Yatish Phule, who requested that religious activities not be permitted within the protected monument during the Vat Pournima celebrations scheduled for June 29. Officials also referred to provisions under the Maharashtra Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Rules, 1962, which are intended to preserve the heritage and character of protected sites.
Authorities recalled that a similar dispute arose during last year’s Vat Pournima observance, when objections raised by members of the Mahatma Phule Samata Pratishthan led to tensions at the site and required police intervention to maintain order.
Anticipating a large gathering this year, the Archaeology Department has requested adequate police deployment throughout the day on June 29 to prevent any unauthorized activities within the monument premises and ensure that law and order are maintained.
Copies of the letter have also been forwarded to the Director of Archaeology and Museums, the Pune District Collector, the Pune Municipal Commissioner, local police officials, and the complainant for further action and coordination.
