Mahadji Shinde Chhatri alias Shindyanchi Chhatri located
in Wanwadi, about 7kms from Pune railway station is one of the landmarks
of Pune. This memorial is dedicated to the great soldier Mahadji Shinde,
the Commander in chief of the Maratha Army, between 1760 to 1780 (during
the rule of the Peshwas). Built in 1965 in the Rajasthani style of architecture
by Madhav Rao Sindhya, it becomes one of the famous architectural memorial
of Pune . Spread over an area of 4 acres of land this three storey 50
ft tall monument houses a Shiva temple, which was built by Mahadji Shinde
in 1794 and the Samadi of Shrimant Mahadji Shinde, who passed away in
the same year. One can enter the monument through the magnificent iron
gates. The halls with marble flooring and stone pillars houses colored
glass panes and antique lamps. The exterior walls are carved with beautiful
floral designs and stained glass windows with mini balcony. One can found
a silver portrait of the warrior, dressed up in a flame coloured turban
and a richly designed shawl. The Puja vessels used by him to worship the
family deity are kept at the foot of his picture and are still being used
for daily rituals.The most notable fact about the monument is that it
still retains its architectural beauty and seems unaffected by the ravages
of time. At present it is managed by Sindhiya Devasthan, a trust of Gwalior.Shindyanchi
Chhatri opens from 6.00am to 9.00pm. Entry Fee : Rs 2
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Maharashtra 
