Shaniwar Wada Fort: Echoes of History and Haunting Whispers

Pune's Shaniwar Wada Fort: A Mystery and History-Traveled Location

The Shaniwar Wada Fort in Pune may be of interest to you if you're seeking for a location to learn about India's tumultuous and rich past as well as some paranormal activity. The Peshwa family, who governed the Maratha Empire from 1749 until 1818, had their capital in this magnificent fort. It did, however, also see some of the most horrific and terrible incidents in Indian history, which left a legacy of terror and carnage.

Narayanrao Peshwa was the fifth and youngest monarch of the dynasty, and his murder was one of the most notorious events to take place in the fort. After his older brother Madhavrao passed away from illness in 1773, he took the throne at the age of only 17. But shortly, he encountered resistance from his uncle Raghunathrao, who wanted to seize the post for himself. In order to assassinate Narayanrao, Raghunathrao plotted with his wife Anandibai and recruited a gang of assassins.

The assassins broke into the fort on the evening of August 30, 1773, and assaulted Narayanrao in his quarters. Shouting "Kaka, mala vachva!" as he fled towards his uncle's apartments, the young king was able to escape. Uncle, please rescue me. But with a chilly smile, Raghunathrao gave the command, "Narayanrao la dhara" (Capture Narayanrao), for the assassins to kill him. Once they got up to Narayanrao, the assassins dismembered him. Then they threw his corpse pieces into the neighboring river.

Legend has it that Narayanrao's soul still resides in the fort, and that every full moon night, his pleas for assistance may be heard. Numerous residents and tourists have claimed to have seen ghosts and heard strange noises within the fort. A few people have even reported feeling a push or a chilly touch from an invisible force. Other ghosts, including those of Peshwa warriors who committed suicide or killed in combat, are also said to haunt the fort.

In addition to being a historically significant location, the Shaniwar Wada Fort is a popular destination for paranormal seekers. Some of the restless spirits who stay at this fort may come across you if you are bold enough to visit it. But take note—this is not a place for the weak of heart or the easily alarmed. It's possible that you may see something that will always trouble you.