Mahadji Shinde Chhatri — Attraction in Pune

Shinde Chhatri (शिंदे छत्री),  a memorial dedicated to Maratha Warrior, Mahadaji Shinde & one of the historical place which people visit when they are in Pune is very close to my home (in fact next door) and I visit this memorial and Lord Shiva temple inside memorial premises very often. Just today, I visited Shinde Chhatri and sharing details about same.

Shinde Chhatri (शिंदे छत्री) at Wanawadi in Pune, India is a memorial dedicated to the 18th century Maratha Warrior, Mahadji Shinde who served as the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army under the Peshwas from 1760 to 1780. It is one of the most significant landmarks in the city and is reminiscent of the Maratha rule. It is a hall that marks the spot of Mahadji Shinde's cremation on 12 February 1794.

In 1794, the complex of the memorial only had a temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which was built by Mahadji Shinde himself. Mahadaji Shinde used to perform Pooja at this temple till his death few month later in  same year. His last rites were performed in the premises & his mousoleum (समाधी) was created here. This memorial is dedicated to  Mahadji Shinde and hence named as Shinde Chhatri (शिंदे छत्री).

In 1910, a samadhi (memorial) was constructed outside the sanctum of the Shiva temple, in memory of Mahadji Shinde, exactly where he was cremated. Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia of Gwalior (1876 – 1925) commissioned the building of the complex, along with the memorial of Mahadji Shinde.The Architects of the monument were the firm of Shapurjee N. Chandabhoy of Bombay.

The Scindia of Gwalior are the descendants of Daulat Rao Sindhia, adopted son of Mahadji Shinde. It is maintained by Shinde Devasthan Trust, Gwalior.

The major attraction of the Shinde Chhatri of Pune is its exquisite architecture, reflecting the style used in Rajasthan, India. The architectural grandeur of the building is appreciable with beautiful carvings and the building is the lively specimen of a structure constructed following the Vastu shastra rules. The memorial retains its architectural design and beauty till date.

The fine carvings and idols of saints on the steeple of the Shiva temple are made of yellow stone and the base and the sanctum sanctorum are constructed in black stone. The Chhatri (hall) not only has carvings and painting, but also houses a gallery in it. Coloured window-panes used for the windows are of English style. The hall is beautifully adorned with paintings and photographs of members of Shinde family.

For tourists, there is an entry ticket (Rs. 20 for Indians or Rs. 100 for foreigners), which can be bought at the entrance itself. There is no need to buy tickets in advance. If you are taking a conducted tour of all historical places in Pune through a tour agency, normally entrance ticket charges are included in your cost.

There is another Swayambhu (स्वयंभू) Mahadev temple and Nemba Hanuman & Shani Temple (As well as Renuka Devi Temple) near Shinde Chhatri. All these temples, though small have historic significance and prayers and Pooja offered at all these temples from Mahadaji Shinde's time and hence can be visited when visiting...

A Quirky Chronicle of the Mahadji Shinde Chatri: Where Rs.50 Buys You Enlightenment.

Listen up, fellow culture vultures and penny-pinchers! I've returned from the glorious Mahadji Shinde Chatri, and I'm here to report that for the bargain price of Rs. 50 (roughly the cost of a cadbury), you can step into an architectural wonderland that's clearly being run by someone who takes their value proposition very seriously. The Walls, The Wonder, and The Wallets Upon arrival, you're greeted by a formidable 15-foot wall. I imagine this is to keep out those who haven't paid their fifty rupees, or perhaps to protect the beautiful border plants from overly zealous squirrels. But once you breach the barrier, you find yourself in a courtyard so spacious and well-maintained, it almost makes you feel guilty for paying so little. Seriously, the maintenance here is operating at a level that should probably cost you a second zero on the entry fee, so let's all appreciate this financial miracle.

The main monument is a study in contrasts. First, you hit the hall. Oh, the hall! It's an explosion of vibrant colors and features a great chandelier that clearly got the memo about being fabulous. It's where the monument goes to show off. But then, you move to the Lord Shiva Temple, and things get... spooky. My visit was apparently sponsored by the local electric company's "Take a Break" initiative, as the temple section was a pit of darkness. Viewing the Shiva Linga and the deities became a high-stakes game of "Guess Who in the Gloom." Bring your phone flashlight, folks, because finding spiritual enlightenment shouldn't require night vision goggles! The Stunner Statues Despite the dim lighting, there are two sights that will make your jaw drop: Mahadji Shinde's Statue: Located right behind the Lord Shiva linga, this statue is so lively and realistic it might just wave at you. I was genuinely stunned for a moment. Hats off to the sculptor! The Saints on the Terrace: This was the most stunning part of the entire trip. The fine carvings and idols of saints perched atop the chatri (dome/canopy) are ridiculously realistic. They line the terrace like a perfectly curated, very serious audience, and I swear one of them gave me a judgmental look for looking dumb I think. The Divine Details To round out the premises, you've got a little holy real estate—a samadhi temple for Mahadji Shinde, and a Vithal Rukmini temple. Plus, for all you bendy people, there's even a designated yoga place. Multitasking monument alert! But the real magic happens when the sun is out. The windows are made of colorful glass, transforming the incoming sunlight into a disco ball of beautiful hues on the floor. And the exquisitely carved temple dome looks so pristine, it probably has its own daily polishing schedule. Verdict: This place is a magnificent slice of history, art, and bizarre lighting choices, perfect for a one-day visit (especially since it's under 50 km from Pune). Go for the architecture, stay for the saint statues that look like they're about to start a historical debate....

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "A Quiet Fortress of Maratha Grandeur – Hidden in Plain Sight!"

“Tucked behind everyday streets, this unassuming chhatri (cenotaph) emerges like a hidden fortress—a heritage gem where history whispers through every sandstone carving.”

What Makes It Chronically Captivating

Architectural Drama: A striking fusion of Rajasthani and Anglo elements—ornate yellow sandstone carvings, stained-glass windows, and a stately mandapa that competes with the Shiva temple’s shikhar in elegance and height. Inside, stucco work bathes the hall in orange and green hues, with geometric black-and-white stone flooring creating a refined contrast.

Historical Significance: The very spot where the Maratha commander-in-chief Mahadji Shinde was cremated in 1794 is now a solemn memorial, built later by his Gwalior-descended family, preserving a poignant legacy.

Tranquility & Discovery: It’s often quietly beautiful—rarely crowded, especially in the mornings. Sometimes local art students sketch quietly, or children play nearby, making the atmosphere peaceful and picturesque.

Important Info

Timings: Generally open daily from 6 AM to 9 PM. Some sources mention 7 AM to 8 PM, but 6–9 PM appears most consistent.

Entry Fee:

Indians: ₹5–10

Foreign visitors: ₹25–200 (Fee varies by source; Holidify & TripHobo state ₹5 for Indians, ₹25 for foreigners; Pune Tourism suggests ₹20 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners)

Suggested Visit Duration: Around 1 hour to soak in architecture and ambiance.

Photo Etiquette: Mobile photography allowed from outside; professional shoots require prior permission and may incur charges.

Feature Details

Timings ~6 AM–9 PM daily (some sources say 7–8 PM) Entry Fee ₹5–10 for Indians; ₹25–200 for foreigners (cash typically accepted) Highlight Franco-Rajasthani architecture, stained glass, memorial to Mahadji Shinde Best Visit Time Early morning or late afternoon—calm and golden lighting Visit Duration Around 1 hour Photography Notes Use mobile from outside freely; professional requires permission

Review:

“Ambling through Pune’s crowded alleys… and unexpectedly, you find this majestic stronghold of history—Mahadji Shinde Chhatri. More than a memorial, it's an architectural poem; the yellow sandstone carvings and stained-glass windows glow in the soft afternoon light.

Step inside the hall (entry is just ₹5–₹10 for locals, ₹25–₹200 for visitors)—listen to the silence, feel the space and remember that this is where Maratha hero Mahadji Shinde was laid to rest.

A peaceful sanctuary, evocative and intimate. Visit early morning or late evening for the best light and atmosphere. Worth every...