Shinde Chhatri, Pune

Shinde Chhatri is a memorial on Wanawadi Road in Pune, dedicated to the famous 18th-century Maratha ruler and commander Mahadji Shinde. Built in the late 18th century under the Maratha Empire, the site is a historical and cultural landmark that attracts both scholars and tourists interested in Maratha history. The memorial spans approximately 1.5 acres and is set amidst beautiful gardens. The Shinde Chhatri reflects the hallmarks of Maratha architecture with its domed pavilions, intricate stone carvings and ornamental pillars, showcasing a fusion of indigenous design and craftsmanship of the region, symbolising bravery, heritage and religious devotion.

Shinde Chhatri exemplifies traditional Maratha architectural style with notable Rajput and Mughal influences. Built in the late 18th century during Mahadji Shinde’s governance, the structure employs locally sourced black basalt stone and lime mortar. The monument features an elevated central dome supported by intricately carved pillars, representing a fusion of functional engineering and aesthetic adulteration. Arched entrances and ornamental jaalis allow light and ventilation, while the surrounding landscaped area complements the solemnity of the cenotaph. The use of water channels and raised plinths demonstrates advanced engineering practices of the period.

• Central domed cenotaph
• Ornamental stone pillars
• Arched gateways
• Perimeter gardens
• Stone pathways and terraces
• Small subsidiary shrines

• Shinde Chhatri is a rare surviving example of 18th-century Maratha funerary architecture in Pune.
• The cenotaph’s pillars display intricate floral and geometric carvings symbolic of Maratha valor.
• Construction uses black basalt stone with lime mortar, enhancing durability and local authenticity.
• Raised plinth and water channels indicate knowledge of microclimate control in architectural design.
• The domed structure is oriented to align with traditional Vastu principles and ceremonial pathways.
• Archaeological studies have highlighted the monument’s significance in understanding Maratha funerary rituals.

📅 Last update: 2026-01-26 || ✍ Author: Sandhya Chauhan

Meet Sandhya, exploring India with curiosity and wonder. She shares info and tips in simple language, inviting you to join the journey. She is graduated in tourism and writes about the places of India.