ASI Launches Beautification Project To Enhance Pune’s Historical Gems: Shaniwarwada and Aga Khan Palace
ASI Launches Beautification Project To Enhance Pune's Historical Gems: Shaniwarwada and Aga Khan Palace
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has launched a beautification project aimed at enhancing the appeal of two famous historical sites in Pune: Shaniwarwada and Aga Khan Palace. The gardens at these locations will feature vibrant seasonal flowers, freshly painted trees, and preserved ancient art to draw more visitors and honor their cultural heritage.
At Shaniwarwada, the ASI is concentrating on cleanliness, aesthetic improvements, and the preservation of its historical importance. Recent initiatives have included planting marigolds and other flowers from both India and Europe, similar to those found in the gardens of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Furthermore, the old trees in the garden have been repainted to give them a refreshed appearance, while chemical treatments are being used to protect ancient wall paintings that depict Sheshashayi Vishnu and Lord Ganesha.
Similarly, beautification efforts are also taking place at Aga Khan Palace in Kalyani Nagar. The palace gardens have been enhanced with lush green lawns and colorful flowering plants. Additionally, issues regarding the water supply in the area have been addressed to support these improvements. The ASI is actively overseeing both sites to ensure their maintenance and to boost their historical and cultural significance.
The Aga Khan Palace is of great importance as it served as a detention center for Mahatma Gandhi during British rule from 1942 to 1944. During this time, he was accompanied by Kasturba Gandhi, his secretary Mahadev Desai, and Dr. Sushila Nayar. In 1969, Prince Aga Khan dedicated the palace to the nation as a memorial for the centenary of Gandhi’s birth. With the recent beautification efforts, the palace gardens now showcase a renewed beauty that reflects their historical significance.
