In a rectangular complex surrounded by trees in the neighborhood of Wanawadi in Pune, stands a beautiful memorial. The structure was designed to honor Mahadji Shinde, the 18th-century Maratha military leader and statesman. Shinde was a trusted lieutenant of the Peshwa (the prime minister of the Maratha Empire) and was the commander-in-chief of the Maratha army from 1760 to 1780. In 1794, this complex housed a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple was built by Mahadji Shinde himself. Upon his death, he was cremated within the premises of the…
