Walk into the history of Pune

Architect Darpana Athale's Pune Walk programme will introduce Puneites and tourists to the magnificent heritage of the city

Architect Darpana Athale's Pune Walk programme will introduce Puneites and tourists to the magnificent heritage of the city

In a unique move to highlight the glorious heritage and culture of the city, architect Darpana Athale has started the Pune Walk programme.



The programme debuts on Saturday as part of the Indian Design Festival that is currently on at YASHADA.

"I have been showing the architectural, cultural and even ancient trade heritage to tourists from USA, China and many European countries for the past two years," Darpana, the architect of Sarvasva Design, told MiD DAY.

She added, "It's high time we experience the images, sounds, smells and textures of Pune and its cultural ethos. Let's walk, feel and experience the past, which is our present today."

The walk will take you through the historic Shaniwar Wada, which is surrounded by Lal Mahal, Omkreshwar Temple, Tulsi Baug and Vishrambaug Wada, among many others that reflect old Maratha style of architecture.

Added Darpana, "There are 11 places, including Tambat Ali and Burud Ali where ancient forms of utensils and bamboo items are still made."

The Pune Walk will end at the Raja Kelkar Museum.

Inspired

The idea behind the initiative is similar walks in different parts of the country.
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Darpana was inspired form the historic cities like Mumbai and Ahmedabad where such 'walks' have became very
popular.

She says this exercise has relevance because many people, who are born and brought up in this Pune, still do not know the city and do not understand its cultural importance.

The old part of the city showcases different buildings temples, museums, wadas and forts.

Wadas have always been the trademark of old Maharashtrian housing style, which are now being replaced by faceless concrete buildings.

Merchandising

To make the initiative more exciting, the group is also providing merchandise like Pune Walk caps T-Shirts, greeting cards and bookmarks.
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"This will make the Walk memorable," remarked Darpana.

Highlights

Pune has the largest Jewish Synagogue (pictured above) in Asia, outside Israel

Largest carpets of Asia can be found in Pune. Many of them can be seen in the main building hall of the Pune University (pictured above)

Roads in the city are dedicated to different professions like tailors (Shimpi Ali), coppersmiths (Tambal
Ali) and Bamboo craftsmen (Burud Ali) among others

Wadas like Shaniwar Wada and Vishrambaug Wada Kasba Peth, Tulsi

Baug temple and Mahatma Phule Mandai are some of the places that depict the old culture of the city