Kashibai Temple Complex: A Historic Remnant in Nagpur

thenewsdirt
Feb 14
4 min read

Tucked away in the streets of New Shukrawari in Nagpur, the Kashibai Temple Complex remains an overlooked relic of an era long past.

It stands as a silent witness to the grandeur and tragedies of the Bhonsale dynasty, which once ruled this region.

Despite its significance, time and urban expansion have diminished its prominence, leaving it buried under layers of modernity.

Yet, for those who look beyond the city's ever-changing landscape, this site holds stories that offer a glimpse into the traditions, rituals, and way of life that define an important chapter in India's history.

A Legacy Carved in Stone

The Kashibai Temple Complex has stood for more than two and a half centuries, bearing witness to the lives of the Bhonsale rulers and their families.

Every structure within the complex tells a story, from the cenotaphs of kings to the memorials of queens who followed them in death.

Built with a deep sense of devotion and reverence, these stone structures reflect the architectural craftsmanship of the period and the customs that shaped the dynasty.

The oldest structure in the complex is the samadhi of Raghuji Bhonsale I, constructed between 1750 and 1755. Raghuji I, who played a key role in expanding Maratha's influence in central and eastern India, was one of the most significant rulers of his time.

His final resting place was built with care, reflecting his status and the traditions of the era. The stone carvings on the pillars and walls showcase the precision and artistry of the builders. The details, though worn by time, still hint at the grandeur they once held.

Alongside the samadhis of kings lie the memorials of queens, who performed sati, a practice where widows self-immolated on their husband's funeral pyre.

The most well-documented instance in this complex is that of Kashibai, wife of Raje Parsoji Maharaj Bhonsale, who followed this ritual on 2 February 1817. She was not alone in this act, records suggest that nine queens of the Bhonsale dynasty committed sati, leaving behind structures that now serve as reminders of a time when such customs were deeply embedded in society.

These cenotaphs, though simple in their construction compared to those of the kings, carry a different kind of weight. They are markers of a tradition that was once considered an obligation, a practice that shaped the fate of many royal women.

The architectural style of the complex blends elements of Nagari and Maratha influences. The pillared structures, built using locally sourced stone, exhibit patterns that were common in 18th-century Maratha design.

Some domed structures resemble those seen in other prominent sites of the era, showing a connection to broader architectural trends. Over time, weathering and exposure have softened the sharp edges of these carvings, yet many intricate details remain visible.

Struggles Against Time and Change

Tomb of Shrimant Maharani Sati Kashibai Maharaj Bhonsale

The Kashibai Temple Complex has withstood centuries, yet the effects of time and modern development are becoming increasingly visible.

What was once a place of prominence for the Bhonsale dynasty now stands amid the growing city, surrounded by roads, buildings, and everyday life that moves past it without pause. The structures, which once commanded attention, now compete with an urban landscape that has gradually encroached upon them.

The samadhis and cenotaphs, built with precision and devotion, have started showing clear signs of erosion and decay.

The stone carvings, once sharp and detailed, have lost much of their definition due to exposure to the elements. Some structures have cracks, while others have been partially buried under layers of dust and neglect.

Vegetation has found its way into the crevices, with small plants growing through the gaps in the stonework.

In some parts of the complex, the flooring has shifted, causing uneven surfaces that make navigation difficult.

Urban development has added to the challenges faced by the historic site. Road-widening projects have affected parts of the complex, and in certain areas, construction work has come dangerously close to the boundaries of this heritage structure.

The expansion of the city has placed pressure on many old sites, and the Kashibai Temple Complex is no exception. Modern buildings have risen around it, reducing the open space that once surrounded these structures.

Maintenance efforts have been inconsistent, leaving sections of the complex in a fragile state. While some attempts have been made to preserve the site, they have not been enough to counteract the damage caused by time and external factors.

Weathering has stripped away the finer details of the stonework, and in places, fallen debris has remained untouched for long periods.

Despite these conditions, the site continues to attract visitors, especially during key religious and cultural events. Annual gatherings, such as the Kashibai Utsav, bring people together for bhajans, kirtans, and community meals.

Festivals like Kojagiri and Dussehra also see a rise in footfall, with locals coming to pay respects.

However, on regular days, the complex remains largely quiet, visited only by a handful of people who are familiar with its history.

The Kashibai Temple Complex has remained standing for centuries, but the effects of time, weather, and urbanisation have left a visible impact. The carvings that once told the stories of kings and queens are now fading, and the structures that once held strong are showing signs of wear.

Yet, despite all these changes, the complex remains, holding on to its past even as the world around it moves forward.