Pune's old wadas still stand in the Peths as reminders of the city's heritage

Despite the crowd of tall buildings, towers and changing lifestyles, the wadas of Pune's old Peths still stand. They bear witness to the city's rich cultural heritage. Their grand carved wooden doors, large courtyards, wooden pillars, balconies and distinctive construction give a sense of how people lived in old Pune. These walls hold not just history but the memories of many generations.

This heritage of historic buildings can be seen in Shaniwar Peth, Narayan Peth, Sadashiv Peth, Shukrawar Peth and other old localities. The social life of that time, the structure of the family and the finer points of architecture show in the design of these wadas. The courtyard at the centre of a wada was not merely open space. It was where the household gathered, celebrated festivals and talked with one another.

The carving on the wooden doors of the old wadas, the design of the windows, the wooden staircases and the traditional method of construction are still considered important by students of architecture. Today's buildings offer a variety of facilities to suit changing needs. Even so, the natural light, the ventilation and the layout around the courtyard in the old wadas draw particular attention.

But with time, the condition of many old wadas is changing. The cost of upkeep, rotted timber, rain damage and the growing importance given to redevelopment have raised the question of how to save these buildings. Families still live in some wadas, and their everyday lives are emotionally bound up with the buildings.

Pune's identity has not been shaped by modern development alone. Historic buildings and traditions are also part of it. It is therefore necessary to document the old wadas, record their architectural features and give priority to proper care. If these buildings are saved, future generations will also be able to feel Pune's history and cultural richness.

One of them is the Vishrambaug Wada in Sadashiv Peth, on Bajirao Road. This historic building is an important example of Peshwa-era architecture. Peshwa Baji Rao II had it built around 1807 to 1808. Its wooden construction, carved pillars, large courtyard and distinctive entrance still draw tourists. The building was linked to the political and social life of the Peshwa era. It is necessary to preserve this wada, which safeguards Pune's historic heritage.