In a glaring example of civic neglect, the historic memorial of Nanasaheb Peshwa in Pune has fallen into a state of disrepair and unsanitary conditions, drawing sharp criticism from historians, activists, and the Peshwa's own descendants.
Memorial Becomes Den for Anti-Social Elements
The memorial, situated on the riverbed near Alka Talkies in Sadashiv Peth, has reportedly become an unsafe and inaccessible spot frequented by anti-social elements. This deterioration is attributed to a sustained lack of oversight and garbage accumulation. City activist Rupesh Kesekar pointed out that while clean-up drives were conducted two years ago under the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and again two months ago by a former corporator, no consistent sanitation effort has been maintained.
Kesekar questioned the administration's priorities, noting a focus on inaugurating new statues while significant heritage sites like this memorial are ignored. He emphasized Nanasaheb Peshwa's crucial administrative role when Pune served as the seat of the Maratha Empire, stating that the memorial's condition reflects poorly on the city's commitment to preserving its heritage. Kesekar has urged for immediate restoration efforts to coincide with the Peshwa's birth anniversary on December 16.
Structural Vulnerabilities and Official Apathy
Sachin Joshi, an archaeological researcher at Deccan College, explained a key structural issue. The memorial's location within the riverbed makes it vulnerable, especially when water is released from the Khadakwasla dam. "Garbage from the Mula–Mutha river flows directly into the premises," Joshi said. He noted that while the memorial predates the dam and was originally beyond the reach of floodwaters, the current dynamics bring waste directly to the site.
Pushkar Peshwa, a direct descendant of the Peshwa family, expressed deep frustration over the long-standing apathy. "We have written several letters, but the site remains in poor condition," he said. He described the current state: there is no gate, the steps are broken, and people freely consume alcohol on the premises. The PMC has pointed to the ongoing Riverfront Development (RFD) project as a future solution, claiming it will raise the ground level to prevent monsoon damage. "But at present, they are not even carrying out basic cleaning," Pushkar Peshwa added.
PMC Admits Lapses, Promises Review
A senior PMC official acknowledged the problem, admitting that irregular cleaning by the ward office is a major issue. The official stated that garbage from nearby areas often washes into the historic site and assured that the matter would be reviewed to ensure regular sanitation. However, this admission offers little solace to those who see the memorial's decay as symbolic of a broader neglect of Pune's rich historical legacy.
The collective demand from experts and the Peshwa family is clear: the memorial of a key figure in Maratha history requires urgent, concrete, and sustained action from the civic authorities to restore its dignity and safety.
