amongst the most charming spots,

however, is the bold promontory, known as

Malabar Point, and crowned with a mansion,
originally the residence of Sir John Malcolm,
now set apart for the accommodation of
the Governor, when the heat becomes
oppressive at Parell. This agreeable resort
pitched upon the tall and rocky headland, like
an eyrie above the waves commands a varied
and extensive view, lovely at all times, but
more particularly so when the suns broad
golden disc is half obscured below the azure
waters, and the feathery tips of the coconut
woods retain their amber-tinted hues
Description of Raj Bhavan by a 19th
Century traveler, Mrs. Postans.

Maharashtra Raj Bhavan is one of the most

beautiful Raj Bhavans in India. You can see
the sunrise; you can see the sunset. It is
spectacular. And then its covered from
three sides by the sea.
S.M. Krishna,
Governor of Maharashtra (2004-2008)

Raj Bhavans of Maharashtra

 contents

Raj Bhavan of Maharashtra

May 2013

Designed, Published and Printed by

05 presidents message
Executive Publisher | Maneck E. Davar

Editorial | Aishik Barua, Samira Major 06 FOREWORD

Photographer | Sudharak Olwe

Art Director | Parvez Shaikh

08 INTRODUCTION
Asst. Art Director | Yogita Iyer

Digital Imaging | Ninad Jadhav, Rohit Nayak

Mumbai
Project Coordinator | Minjal Kadakia

Research source
| Raj Bhavans in Maharashtra,
authored by Shri Sadashiv Gorakshkar Pune
| www.rajbhavan.maharashtra.gov.in

Printed and Published on behalf of the 22 ArchitecturE

Raj Bhavan of Maharashtra
by Spenta Multimedia, Peninsula Spenta,
Mathuradas Mill Compound, N. M. Joshi Marg, 54 Art and Artefacts
Lower Parel, Mumbai - 400 013.
Tel: 2481 1010, Fax: 2481 1021;
www.spentamultimedia.com 66 Flora and Fauna 104 ArchitecturE little-known facts

110 Art and Artefacts

116 Flora and Fauna
Nagpur
138 The unknown
stories of the
raj bhavans
No part of this book may be reproduced or of maharashtra
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in Mahabaleshwar
any form or by any means, without the prior events
written permission of the copyright holder.

76 ArchitecturE
84 Art and Artefacts
90 Flora and Fauna 126 ArchitecturE
148 special occasions
and visits
132 Flora and Fauna
Raj Bhavans of Maharashtra

154
Witness to Glory the governors
gallery

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 amQ>n{V
^maV JUV
President
Republic of India

MESSAGE

I am happy to learn that the Raj Bhavan, Maharashtra is bringing out a coffee-table
book on the Raj Bhavans in Maharashtra.

With the majestic Arabian Sea providing a grand backdrop, the Mumbai Raj Bhavan
is undoubtedly one of the best Raj Bhavans in India.

I understand this coffee-table book will attempt to capture, through a series of

photographs, the aesthetic beauty of the Raj Bhavans, their architecture, the flora
and fauna, the arts, artefacts and other interesting aspects.

Raj Bhavans are more than beautiful heritage buildings located in grand surroundings.
They represent an august institution of the State that has an obligation to protect the
dignity of the Constitution and to uphold the rule of law. Quite naturally, people of
the State have great expectations from the Raj Bhavan. It should be the endeavour
of the Raj Bhavan to meet these legitimate aspirations.

I congratulate the Governor of Maharashtra on his welcome initiative in bringing

out this coffee-table book, which will provide a glimpse of the Raj Bhavans of
Maharashtra to all interested persons.

New Delhi
March 15, 2013 Pranab Mukherjee

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 Fore word

After serving as the Governor of
Nagaland and Jharkhand during
2007-2009, I was appointed Governor
of Maharashtra on 22nd January,
2010 and again on 7th May, 2012 for
a fresh term.
While in Nagaland, I had also served
as the Governor of Arunachal
Pradesh and Assam for brief periods.
As it turned out, I was also given the additional charge of Goa
during 2011-12. I, thus, had the rare privilege of serving as the
Governor of six Indian States during as many years. This, in turn,
entitled me to another privilege, that of living in six Raj Bhavans
in the country.
Every Raj Bhavan is unique in its own right. However, I must
confess, my wife Radha and I were at once captivated by the
beauty of the Mumbai Raj Bhavan, which is encircled on three
sides by the Arabian Sea. Not surprisingly, this Raj Bhavan is
described as the Queen among the Raj Bhavans in the country.
Radha was a Botany professor and was naturally attracted to the
beautiful natural setting of the Raj Bhavan, replete with exotic
trees, some of them planted during the pre-Independence era.
But the Raj Bhavan is much more than a complex of heritage
edifices in a sylvan surrounding. The place has been a silent
witness to history of almost two centuries. Jal Bhushan, which
serves as my residence, has been the residence of the British
Governors from 1885, and that of the Governors of Maharashtra
from 1960. Apart from housing the Governors residence, the Raj
Bhavans in Maharashtra host the President, the Vice President,
and the Prime Minister whenever they visit Maharashtra. By
convention, the Governor receives the Heads of State, Heads of
Government and Parliamentary delegations coming from various
countries to Mumbai. The Governor hosts a banquet or high tea
in honour of these dignitaries.
The Governor is traditionally the Chancellor of public universities
in the State. The role of the Governor as Chancellor gives him a
special responsibility to contribute to the growth and excellence
of higher education. The Constitution has also vested in the
Governor of Maharashtra a special responsibility under article
371 (2) for equitable allocation of development funds among the
three regions of the State, namely Vidarbha, Marathwada and the
rest of Maharashtra. The role of the Governor may have changed
from being the executive head before Independence to that of
a Constitutional Head of State, but the importance of the Raj
Bhavan in the polity has continued uninterrupted.
When I discussed the idea of bringing out a coffee-table
book on the Raj Bhavans of Maharashtra with my Secretary,
Shri Vikas Chandra Rastogi, he supported it spontaneously.
My Deputy Secretary in charge of Development Boards Cell,
Shri Muthukrishnan Sankaranarayanan now transferred as
Commissioner in charge of MGNREGA in Nagpur was given
the task of bringing out the book in a time-bound manner.
Considering the historic significance of the Raj Bhavan, we
decided to consult experts and historians in the shaping of the
book. A Technical Advisory Committee was formed under the
aegis of the well-known historian, archivist and former Director,
Prince of Wales Museum, Mumbai, Shri Sadashiv Gorakshkar,
to suggest the size and content of the book and to generate
a ready-to-print version of the book. Ms. Vrunda Pathare, an
archivist with the Godrej Archives, Smt. Shraddha Belsarey,
Director, Information and Public Relations, Government of
Maharashtra, Shri G.G. Waghmare, Dean of Sir J.J. School of
Applied Art and Shri Umesh Kashikar, my PRO, assisted the
Committee in its work. I wish to place on record my appreciation
of Shri Gorakshkar and all the members of the Committee for
their invaluable inputs.
If the buildings in Raj Bhavans have maintained their old-world
charm, the credit has to go to the State Public Works Department
that has maintained all the Raj Bhavan buildings in their
pristine beauty.
I wish to place on record my appreciation and thanks to Shri
Vikas Chandra Rastogi, Secretary to the Governor, for his efficient
supervision of the entire work. Shri Parimal Singh, my Deputy
Secretary took the work left behind by Shri Muthukrishnan to its
logical conclusion.
Appreciation is also due to Shri Vasant Salunke, the Comptroller
of the Governors household who has the responsibility of
maintaining the beauty of the Raj Bhavans.
Spenta Multimedia has done the remarkable job of bringing out
this excellent volume which I am sure will be a connoisseurs
delight. Photography by well-known documentary photographer
Shri Sudharak Olwe has certainly enhanced the quality of the book.
I am also grateful to Dr. Mitra Mukherjee-Parikh, Head of
the Department of English, SNDT Womens University and
Prof. Vasudha Kamat, Vice Chancellor, for their help in editing
the script.
The Raj Bhavans of Maharashtra belong to the people of the
State, the Governor being merely the trustee. I therefore take
great pleasure in dedicating this coffee-table book to the people
of Maharashtra.
K Sankaranarayanan
Governor of Maharashtra

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 INTR ODUCTION

Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, located in the green
idyllic surroundings on the southernmost tip
of the Malabar Hill, symbolises the authority
of the Constitutional Head of the State of
Maharashtra. Enveloped from three sides by
the majestic Arabian Sea, it is rightly regarded as the Queen
among the Raj Bhavans in the country.
Government House at Malabar Hill, as the place was referred to
in the pre-Independence era, was the seat of power of the British
Governors since 1885. Prior to this, it served as the Summer
Home of the British Governors. Some buildings in the complex
date back to the early 1800s. Post Independence, the place was
named Raj Bhavan and became the office and residence of the
Constitutional Head of the State of Bombay.
Raj Bhavan had been the political nerve centre during the British
Raj. After Independence, Raj Bhavan made the transition from
being the seat of power of the Executive to that of a Constitutional
Head of State.
It was at this very place that the then Prime Minister of India,
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, unveiled the map of Maharashtra at the
stroke of midnight on 30th April, 1960. Governor Sri Prakasa, the
first Chief Minister of Maharashtra Yashwantrao Chavan and 500
distinguished people from a cross-section of society witnessed
this event. With the new state coming into existence, the Raj
Bhavan of Bombay had become the Raj Bhavan of Maharashtra.
In the 53 years since the formation of Maharashtra, Raj Bhavan
has witnessed the swearing in of democratically elected
governments on several occasions. It has hosted the oath-taking
ceremonies of the Chief Ministers and their Cabinet colleagues,
the Chief Justices of the Bombay High Court, the Sheriffs of
Mumbai, the Lokayuktas, the Chief Information Commissioners
and other Constitutional functionaries.
Contrary to popular perception, the Raj Bhavan, Mumbai is not
the name of any one single building. It is a complex comprising
of a cluster of heritage buildings, some of which were built as
early as 1813.
Apart from Mumbai, there are two more Raj Bhavans in
Maharashtra, one in Pune and the other in Nagpur. Pune served
as the monsoon residence of the Governor. Earlier, the Governor
would shift his base to Pune for close to two months. While
this period is now reduced, the Governor continues to hoist the
National Flag at the Council Hall in Pune on 15th August, on the
occasion of Independence Day and host a reception for eminent
citizens on the lawns of Pune Raj Bhavan in the evening.
Before Independence, the Nagpur Raj Bhavan belonged to the
Central Provinces and Berar and was part of Madhya Pradesh till
1956. In 1956, Nagpur became part of the Bombay State, and in
1960, that of the newly formed state of Maharashtra. What once
used to be the residence of the Chief Commissioner of Central
Province in the British Raj now assumed a new role as the Raj
Bhavan of Maharashtra.
The Nagpur Raj Bhavan serves as the residence and office of
the Governor during his occasional visits to Nagpur, particularly
during the winter session of the State Legislature that takes
place in Nagpur. Even in Nagpur, the Governor traditionally hosts
an At Home reception for the members of the State Legislature
and other eminent citizens during his stay.
Apart from the three Raj Bhavans, the Governor has a summer
villa called Giri Darshan at Mahabaleshwar. This beautiful villa
overlooks the enchanting Sahyadri mountain ranges.
It needs to be mentioned that the Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur Raj
Bhavans host the President of India, the Vice President of India,
the Prime Minister of India and other Constitutional functionaries
during their visits to Maharashtra.
One of the privileges of the Governor is to host Heads of State and
Heads of Government visiting Mumbai. He also hosts a banquet or
high tea in honour of these dignitaries.
This function of the Governor justifies the need to maintain the
rather lavish Raj Bhavans in their pristine glory, notwithstanding
the occasional voices of criticism questioning the need for display
of such grandeur in a democracy.
The Raj Bhavans today are not merely the official residences of
the Governor of the State but are also a source of pride for the
democracy and the republic we live in. Each of the Raj Bhavans in
the State has a fascinating history of its own. The history of these
Raj Bhavans also offers new insights into the history of the State.
This coffee-table book is an attempt to bring forth the beauty of
all the Raj Bhavans, their architectural and historical heritage,
the natural ambience, arts and artefacts and other interesting
aspects. It chronicles the stories of each of the Raj Bhavans of
Maharashtra through captivating images that are sure to linger in
memory long after one has turned over the last page.

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The expansive
grounds of the
Raj Bhavan
house a
state-of-the-
art helicopter
with its own Framed by
helipad. The an imposing
Governor uses archway, this
the helicopter entrance to the
occasionally Raj Bhavan,
to attend the Upper Gate,
important has enclosures
events around on either side
the State of for security
Maharashtra. personnel.

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 Far away from the Malabar region in
Northern Kerala lies a picturesque
strip of prime property in South
Mumbai, interestingly named Malabar
Hill. To discover the story behind
this name, we travel back to the early
18th century, a time when a large
part of Bombay, including the region
that is currently known as Malabar
Hill, was owned by the powerful and
well-known Keyi family, hailing from
the North Malabar region of Kerala.
However, despite having strong links
with the various rulers and kings
of that time, the well-established
business family started facing
problems in their trade and commerce
soon after the interference of the
British East India Company. After a
valiant struggle, the Keyi family made
a deal with the British: to save their
trading rights in North Malabar, they
would donate most of their property
to the Company, including the lush
area in South Bombay they named
Malabar Hill, as a last lingering vestige
of the familys once-proud heritage in
the city. Therein lies the present Raj
Bhavan of Mumbai.

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 Mumbai

From the Manor House to the Fort House to the Parel

House, the Government House changed its address
thrice before finally being established at one of the
most picturesque areas of Bombay (now Mumbai),
Malabar Point.

Ensconced in the cliffs and overlooking the Arabian Sea, this 47-acre
expanse of the Mumbai Raj Bhavan and the edifices within at once
impress visitors with their majestic grandeur.

The Raj Bhavan has withstood the tides of time, and has only grown
in character. Personalities who governed the State have left behind
their footprints in the hallowed halls of this magnificent institution. The
Raj Bhavan has both changed and held on to the past. Today, it is an
institution that blends heritage with modernity effortlessly.

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 Architecture

The Mumbai Raj Bhavan is primarily a complex

comprising seven bungalows situated almost in a circle.
The core bungalows are Jal Bhushan, Jal Laxan, Jal
Chintan, Jal Vihar, Jal Sabhagriha, Jal Kiran and Jal
Pujan. The buildings have their unique characteristics
and yet stand as a part of the whole premise facing the four-kilometre
long promenade of Marine Drive.

In 1820, Mountstuart Elphinstone, the then Governor of Bombay, built a

cottage in Malabar Hill, called Marine Villa. The present Raj Bhavan is
built on and around this villa. Over the last century, extensive renovations
have been carried out on and within the various structures housed in
the premises. Modern Indian styles have interacted with the colonial
architectural sensibilities to create a resplendent bhavan befitting the
stature of the Governor of the State of Maharashtra.

The following chapter charts the varied architectural wonders that

are a part of the Mumbai Raj Bhavan. From the banquet hall to the A peek through
the pillars of Jal
office spaces, it makes for a delightful journey through the picturesque Sabhagrihas
labyrinths of the Governors office and residence. foyer. The
villa visible on
the left is Jal
Bhushan, the
Governors
residence.

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 Jal Bhushan

The most important of the buildings in the

Raj Bhavan complex, Jal Bhushan, the official
residence of the Governor since 1885, is a
confluence of old and new architectural styles. It
evolved around the original pretty cottage built
by Mountstuart Elphinstone some time in 1820.

Over the years, it has undergone several renovations to suit the

requirements of successive occupants. The Governors residence,
located on the first floor, offers an unimpaired view of the changing
vistas of the ocean and the horizon.

Apart from the Governors Office, Jal Bhushan houses the visitors
waiting room, the conference room, the reception hall, the lounge, the
dining room, the Governors pantry as well as the offices of the ADC, the
The lush Private Secretary and the PRO.
backyard of
Jal Bhushan,
the official
residence of
the Governor
of Maharashtra,
at Raj Bhavan,
Mumbai.

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 Left: The
state-of-the-
art conference
room, amidst
the offices
that occupy
the ground
floor of Jal
Bhushan, has
been recently
refurnished
and upgraded
with modern
technology.

Right: A step
away from the
conference
room, Rajput
and Mughal
influences
leave their
mark in the
contemporary
Indian dcor of
the Governors
office.

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 Left: One of
the grandest
rooms within
Jal Bhushan
is the newly
refurbished
lounge where
the Governor
meets with
many of his
visitors.

Right: The
Governors
dining room
for all official
purposes is
a pleasant
seating area
where, over the
years, many
luminaries
have shared
anecdotes over
delicious meals.

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Jal Laxan

Jal Laxan, which serves as the presidential suite,

was built by Sir Evan Nepean in 1813. It was
then known as the Governors tiled bungalow
and later in the century came to be known as the
Flagstaff Bungalow.

This heritage bungalow provides the luxury and comfort befitting the
stature of the leaders of the nation. The bungalow has undergone
numerous changes through several decades of its existence. The
Governor traditionally receives the visiting Heads of State and Heads
of Government here before ushering them to the banquet hall.

The carved wooden columns typical of the Maratha period, the painted
and gilded wooden furniture of the central hall, the carved wooden
furniture of the western wing all create the perfect mix of the
history that India is proud of. The walls of Jal Laxan are adorned with
portraits of Deccan Sardars painted by Theodore Jenson in 1866.
Jal Laxan, the
presidential
villa, stands on
the way from
Jal Bhushan to
Jal Chintan.

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 Looking out
The onto the
comfortable yet well-kept
austere master green lawns
bedroom is this small
housed within yet imposing
Jal Laxan. The space in the
heavy drapes presidential
and simple suite, which
furnishings is used as
keep the the breakfast
atmosphere room by its
secure, cosy distinguished
and familiar. residents.

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 The renovated and furnished lounge
of Jal Laxan, where the President, the
Vice-President or the Prime Minister
entertain their guests during their visit.
The furnishings in the lounge are inspired
from the period of King George III.

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 J a l C hin ta n

Initially identified as the Signallers House in the

last century, Jal Chintan is popularly referred to
as Point Bungalow because of its location on a
cliff overlooking the bay. According to history, in
all probability, this is the same bungalow which
was noticed near the Sri Gundi Devi Temple as early as 1710 and was
designated as a small guard house for sepoys. It was strategically built
to keep a watch on the bay and the sea. This was the only bungalow
at Malabar Point until Evan Nepean built his own cottage nearby (the
present Jal Laxan).

The ethereal sunsets and the appealing breeze led many powerful
Also known as
leaders of the country, such as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira
Point Bungalow Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, to choose this house over others during
or Hunting
Lodge or even their occasional stay in Mumbai.
Signallers
House, Jal
Chintan is
precariously
perched over
the edge of
a cliff that
looks over the
Arabian Sea.

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 Left: One of
the lounging
areas within
Jal Chintan.
The windows
provide a
beautiful view
of Mumbais
Marine Drive.

Right: The
sparsely yet
aesthetically
decorated
dining hall of
Jal Chintan.
It is adorned
with a variety
of exclusive
paintings and
artefacts.
Hauntingly
beautiful
patterns of light
shine through
the intricately
carved false
door (seen
behind the
breakfast table).

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Jal Sabhagriha

Jal Sabhagriha, commonly known as Darbar

Hall, was built to host functions and events of a
more official nature. While Jal Vihar was used
for entertainment and amusement purposes, Jal
Sabhagriha was built to conduct swearing-in
ceremonies and to host other official events and cultural programmes.
The audience hall can host about 250 guests comfortably for various
functions. The hall, designed by George Wittet and constructed in
1911, has completed more than a century of its existence.

Jal Sabhagriha
serves as the
venue for the
oath-taking
ceremonies
of the Chief
Minister,
Cabinet
Ministers, and
a few other
Constitutional
functionaries.

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Initially known
as Jal Naik,
Jal Sabhagriha
can host about
250 guests. Its
most intriguing
characteristic
comprises two
large hangings
with the Tree
of Life motif,
on each end of
the hall. They
were specially
designed and
fabricated by
the Chhatrapati
Shivaji
Maharaj Vastu
Sangrahalaya of
Mumbai.

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Jal Vihar

Built to regale its visitors with the Englishmans

sense of etiquette and penchant for entertainment,
Jal Vihar has a lavish banquet hall and a ballroom.
Opened usually when the Governor is hosting
visiting Heads of State or Heads of Government,
the structure speaks volumes about the coming together of various
cultures that our country has witnessed. Jal Vihar has been, since
Independence, restructured according to Indian tastes and yet has
retained aspects that fulfil global expectations. Designed to appeal
to international tastes, Jal Vihar is the only structure within the
premises of the Mumbai Raj Bhavan to have retained most of its
Jal Vihar,
colonial interiors. The dcor is certainly more austere in nature but which houses
the ballroom
then Indian artwork does find its way into the archways, window and the official
panels and furniture. Today, the ballroom serves as the pre- banquet hall,
is one of the
dinner informal meeting place from where guests proceed to the oldest buildings
banquet hall. within the
premises of
Mumbai Raj
Bhavan. The
banquet hall has
witnessed many
official dinners
since late
19th century.

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 This grand
staircase leads to
the central room
in Jal Vihar that
separates the
ballroom from
the banquet hall.
On both sides
stand intricately
carved Madras
wooden wall
panels (jali) from
the 19th century.
Similar to the
plaque on the left
of the wall panel
stand two other
plaques in the
central hall, each
listing the names
of the Governors
of Bombay since
1665, and later,
the Governors of
Maharashtra
since 1960.

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The ballroom The banquet
in its classical hall is one of the
Victorian setting is oldest rooms in
where delegates Raj Bhavan. It
interact with is here that the
the Governors Governor hosts
invitees. lunches or dinners
in honour of the
visiting Heads
of State, Heads
of Government
and international
delegates.

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 A rt a nd A rt e fa c t s

The pieces of art, artefacts and furniture that adorn

the interiors of the Raj Bhavan reflect the eclectic
tastes of the Governors who have resided here.
From the French furniture that Governor Elphinstone
brought to Marine Villa to the late 19th century Iranian
painting of a princess to the 11th century sandstone sculpture of Shiva-
Parvati, every piece speaks volumes about the artistic inclinations of
Governors and the guests of State who gifted some of these artefacts
to the Raj Bhavan.

The following chapter delves into the many eye-catching artefacts that
are steeped in history and make for a visual delight.

An ornately-
crafted knob
in the shape of
a rams head
on the Madras
jali that serves
as a screen in
Jal Vihar, is a
lasting tribute
to the exquisite
handiwork of
artisans of
the past.

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Right: One of
the two large
and elaborately
designed
chandeliers
hanging in the
central hall of
Jal Vihar.

Facing page:
An ashtadhatu
statuette of
Nataraj, the
dance god,
adorns a
tabletop in the
reception area
of Jal Bhushan.

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 Left: A stuffed
peacock, seen
here in the
courtyard
of Jal Vihar,
usually stands
preserved as a
memento in the
central hall.

Facing page:
An intricately
carved
thermocol
separator
encased in a
glass frame
stands between
the official
dining area and
the kitchen at
Jal Bhushan.

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 Facing
page, left: A
beautifully
painted
and carved
porcelain vase
stands right at
the entrance of
the Governors
office.

Facing page,
right: A brass
peacock
miniature in
the drawing
room of
Jal Laxan.

Left: Brought
in from France
during the
British rule,
these well-
preserved
chairs now
adorn the
office of the
Governor. The
furniture sets
also include
a few finely
carved tables.

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Away from the
daily hustle and
bustle, tucked
in a corner of
the house right
outside the
dining room,
is this old,
wide English
staircase
with its
characteristic A decorative
closet-under- wooden door
the-stairs adorns one
that leads to corner of the
the Governors corridor in
personal Jal Bhushans
quarters. foyer.

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 Flor a and Fauna

Malabar Hill used to be a densely forested area

except for a few government residences. Due to
urbanisation, the region has lost much of its green
cover to concrete towers, but the Raj Bhavan has
meticulously maintained its greenery and ecosystem.
Even today, the long stretch of forest in the Malabar Hill complex hosts
a variety of common as well as rare species of flora and fauna. Quite
often, the carcade of the Governor is slowed down by dancing peacocks
while riding along the Lower Drive.

According to a study conducted by the Bombay Natural History Society

in 1997, the existence of 36 species of birds along with a number of rare
marine shells, amphibians, butterflies and insects have been noted in
the Raj Bhavan. Some rare tree species, conserved with great care, are
found in these forests. The following chapter gives us a glimpse into the
wonder that is nature.

Raj Bhavan
houses one of
the hotspots of
biodiversity in
Mumbai. Some
rare species of
flora and fauna
can be
spotted here.

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 The grounds of
the Raj Bhavan
are teeming
with several
A mongoose wonderful
emerges from species of
underneath the wildlife. A
cover of dense solitary squirrel,
foliage, taking pictured here,
a break from pauses for a
chasing snakes, moment before
to bask in the scurrying up a
warm sunlight. tree trunk.

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 Left: A variety
of orchids
bloom within
the cool,
sheltered
comfort of the
newly created
polyhouse at
Raj Bhavan.

Right: The tiled

pathway in the
backyard of
the Governors
residence,
Jal Bhushan,
provides a
stunning view
of the green
upper and lower
lawns, lined by
a flower bed
and a
lotus pond.

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 NAGPUR

Serving as the residence of the Chief Commissioners

and Governors of Central Provinces and old Madhya
Pradesh, the Nagpur Raj Bhavan has seen several
change of guards through its 110 years of existence,
before finally being given the status as the Raj
Bhavan in the second capital of Maharashtra. Nestling in the midst of
the Seminary Hills on the western slopes of the famed Sitabuldi Fort,
this ancient building, referred to as Governor Ki Kothi by locals, has been
a silent witness to some of the important events in the course of Indias
struggle for independence.

After a construction period of around three years, the then Chief

Commissioner of the Central Provinces, A.P. Macdonnel, moved into
this bungalow that was subsequently chosen as the new Government
House for its imperial presence. The house then went through a string
of successors before eventually transforming into the residence of the
Governor of Maharashtra in 1960.

The sessions held and decisions made behind the doors of this Raj
Bhavan have played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the State.
The following chapter takes you through the hallways that echo with
reminiscences of a time gone by and the promise of a brighter future.

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 Architecture

Encircled by a vast forest, the residence of the Governor

of Maharashtra in Nagpur exudes old-world elegance and
charm. With a history peppered with British and local
culture, it is no surprise that the Raj Bhavan at Nagpur
displays a seamless integration of indigenous and colonial
influences in its architecture.

The ornately carved porches leading to the ballroom, drawing room

and dining hall are an aesthetic delight. Wall-to-wall Persian carpets
laid out in the Darbar Hall speak of opulent times that the premises
have witnessed. Any visitor to this Raj Bhavan is at once impressed by
its huge, circular and well-manicured lawn that serves as a majestic
foreground to the heritage buildings of the premises.

The main porch

of the Raj
Bhavan with
its beautifully
carved arches
and decorative
eaves looks
over the central
fountain and
the vast green
lawn beyond.

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 Left: The
grand ballroom
housed in the
main building of
the Raj Bhavan
is used to host
State functions.
With Nagpur
first receiving
electrical supply
Dunt num inim only in 1912,
yo dignibh hand pankhas
etuerostrud tat. were the norm
nulputetummy in the ballroom.
etum niamcom Yet, even with
nt num inim the addition
yo dignibh of electric
etuerostrud tat. fans in the
present day, the
Dunt num inim room retains
yo dignibh its stately
etuerostrud tat. elegance.
Sandrer susci
nulputetummy Right: Speakers
nulla onullam in made eloquent
etum niamcom arguments
molorti. during meetings
at this podium
in the ballroom
of the Raj
Bhavan.

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 The premises
of the Raj
Bhavan don a
colourful facade
on celebratory
evenings such
as this when
dignitaries
come to visit
the Governor.

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 A rt a nd A rt e fa c t s

The ornately
carved bronze
cannon is said
to have been
brought from the Raj Bhavan, Nagpur houses an impressive collection
ancient fortress of rare art and artefacts within its hallowed walls.
of Asirgarh
that lies within From the masterfully carved wooden furniture and the
the historically
rich district of
intricately produced miniature portraits of the Bhosle
Burhanpur in kings of Nagpur to the beautifully engraved Asirgarh
Madhya Pradesh
in 1663. Believed Fort cannon from Emperor Aurangzebs era the residence narrates
to be made of stories of the history that it has endured.
ashtadhatu
the material
composed of
eight metals
The following chapter explores these fragments of Indian history that
the cannons shine with the glory of a vast and rich heritage.
exquisite
craftsmanship
makes it a
magnificent
monument to
the Mughal
reign in India.
Embellished with
intricate Persian
inscriptions,
the cannon
dates back to
Mughal Emperor
Aurangzebs
era. This is a
magnified image
of the sculpted
lion atop the
cannon displayed
on the previous
page.

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 Extreme left:
The exquisitely
carved 16th
century
sculpture,
probably
created during
the reign of
the Gond kings
Right: The Jain of Nagpur, is
Tirthankar an enchanting
sculpture that remnant of an
dates back ancient culture.
to the 15th
century. Left: A
masterfully
Extreme right: sculpted 13th
An excavated century image
sculpture of a of Mahavir,
tribal dholak excavated
player which in Jabalpur,
dates back stands in the
to sometime corridor of the
between the main building
16th and 17th of Nagpur Raj
century. Bhavan.

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 Flor a and Fauna

The Nagpur Raj Bhavan is located within a forested plateau in the

heart of the city and is brimming with a fascinating mix of flora
and fauna.

A biodiversity park was created on the huge expanse of the Nagpur Raj Bhavan in 2011,
by weeding out unwanted species and planting newer ones. The flora ranges from roses,
aromatic plants and medicinal plants to cacti, sacredplants, ornamentalBambusetum
and a large number of native species, weaving a tapestry of dense green foliage.
The fauna encompasses a large variety of butterflies and birds. A garden has been
created as part of the biodiversity park to attract and retain butterflies. However, birds
definitely rule the roost over here with a staggering 139 species of them at the last
count. There are nearly 50 peacocks strutting within the Raj Bhavan premises.

The following chapter takes us on a mesmerising journey of nature in the Nagpur

Raj Bhavan.

The rich
biodiversity
of the
Seminary Hills
surrounding Raj
Bhavan displays
a cornucopia of
flora and fauna
in the region.

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 The silk
floss (Ceiba
speciosa) stands
tall amidst
trimmed grass
and
A scenic, shrubberies
cool path in one of the
through the many
biodiversity gardens at Raj
park. Bhavan.

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 Extreme left:
The akkalkadha
or Spilanthes
acmeltas
flowers are a
great antidote
for toothache
and are often
used as an
aphrodisiac.

Left: There
are several
vibrant species
of flowers in
the tranquil
gardens of the
Raj Bhavan,
splashing the
surrounding
green forestry
in a burst of
glorious colour.

Right: The
exquisite
landscaping
detail of the Raj
Bhavan
property
is captured
through
colourful
vegetation
moulded
perfectly
into the shape
of a
butterfly.

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 The tranquil
The plants waters of a
in the cactus lotus pond
gardens evoke an
of the Raj atmosphere
Bhavan of picturesque
are elaborately serenity in
arranged for the butterfly
aesthetic effect. garden.

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 Extreme left:
Seen here
enjoying a
midday meal,
the vibrant
Bee-eater from
the Meropidae
family is a
voracious
insectivore.
Ramesh Yewale

Left: A lone
specimen of the
Birds like the White-throated
sleek Rufous Kingfisher sits
Treepie are a pensively on
common sight a tree in the
around the biodiversity
Raj Bhavan park of the
grounds. Raj Bhavan.

Ramesh Yewale Ramesh Yewale

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 Pune

To escape the humid monsoons of Bombay

as well as for political expediency, Governor
Elphinstone suggested that an administrators
seat be established in Pune. Thus, the institution
of a Governors residence in Pune was set
in motion. The first proper residence for the Governor of Bombay in
Pune was purchased by Sir John Malcom from Major Ford C.B. amidst
the greenery of Dhapooree in 1828. But due to financial and political
reasons, the estate was sold in 1864.

Almost seven years later, plans to construct a grander Government

House were put in place. The chosen locale of the new structure was
Ganeshkhind, which was closer to the cantonment area.

After Independence, a large part of the estate, including the Governors

office and residence, was given over to the newly formed Pune University.
An existing property was refurbished to serve as the Governors
residence. Today, it is known as the Pune Raj Bhavan.

While Punya Bhushan is used as the Governors residence, Punya

Laxan serves as the presidential suite. Punya Chintan houses a small
conference hall and guest rooms. A new guest house for VIPs has been
constructed adjacent to the second gate of Pune Raj Bhavan.

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 Architecture

Originally built in 1888 to serve as a guest house,

Punya Bhushan is now the Governors official
residence within the premises of Pune Raj Bhavan.
With modern modifications it now comprises three
bedrooms, three study rooms, a dining room, a
drawing room and the Governors office.

Punya Laxan was built in 1906, originally as a service facility for the
Secretarys quarters. It has been beautifully renovated as a presidential
suite for the VVIP guests of the State. Most of the original architecture
has been restored in favour of modern transformations. Punya Chintan
used to be known as Bodyguard House during the British rule. In present
times it has been suitably restructured to serve as a guest house.

The wooden
first-floor
corridor on
one side of
Punya Chintan,
the house that
comprises guest
rooms and a
meeting room.

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 Left: The
Governors
office in Punya
Bhushan.

Right: The
grand central
drawing room
within Punya
Laxan, also
referred to as
the presidential
suite.

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 A rt a nd A rt e fa c t s

Interesting artefacts and pieces of art can be found

within the premises of the Raj Bhavan in Pune and
have been well-maintained. Across the property
we come across small objects that have huge
significance such as the Sinhalese bell, the stone
baithak and many more.

A cast-iron
cannon from
the pre-
Independence
era stands
outside Punya
Bhushan.

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 Extreme left:
A Sinhalese
bell with a long
inscription on
the upper half
stands on a
tripod in the
garden area
A beautifully outside Punya
sculpted stone Bhushan.
baithak (seat)
positioned on Left: A metallic
the pathway sculpture of the
between Punya Queens crown
Bhushan and from the
Punya Laxan. British era.

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 Flor a and Fauna

Gardens, pathways and lawns are carefully

maintained to capture the imagination and delight
the senses of the visitors and the residents
alike. Planned vegetation areas and artistically
structured gardens lure in a variety of birds and
insects too. Colourful butterflies are a common sight within the Raj
Bhavan premises.

The following chapter provides glimpses of nature within the Pune Raj
Bhavan complex.

A red pearl
in full bloom
within the
garden outside
Punya Chintan.

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 Left: Varieties
of roses
beautify the
dedicated Rose
Garden within
the Raj Bhavan
premises.

Right: The rare

pentas flowers
are a sight to
behold.

Extreme right:
Wild flowers,
such as the
cocks comb,
are a common
sight in the
well-kept
gardens of
Pune Raj
Bhavan.

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 Left: The flora
within the
Raj Bhavan
premises have
been planned
such that
there is scope
for all types
of flowers,
including
carnations.

Right: A
Chinese
evergreen
shrub beautifies
the garden
outside Punya
Laxan.

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 M A H A B A L E S H WA R

Distinguished by the tranquil beauty of the countryside,

the Governors House at Mahabaleshwar, earlier known
as The Terraces and rechristened as Giri Darshan, is a
relatively small building nestled in the midst of a forest.
It is an ideal set-up to enjoy the beauty of the Sahyadri
Hills. The Terraces was purchased in 1884. Lying snug in the heart of
the Sahyadri Hills, this property is divided into two houses: Giri Darshan,
the Governors personal residence and Giri Laxan, where the guests of
the Governor are lodged.

The picturesque region of Mahabaleshwar had always been a source

of great attraction to the Imperial Rule. It was no surprise when, back
in 1826, the need for a respite from Bombays humid climate combined
with a natural love for the countryside drew Governor Mountstuart
Elphinstones attention to the cool comforts of Mahabaleshwar as a
possible location for a new Government House. Over the years, however,
the distance from Bombay and a number of other parameters resulted
in the reconsideration of the property at Mahabaleshwar as a summer
residence for the Governor.

It is remarkable to note that the tradition of more than a century ago

still stands strong in this day and age. Today, the Raj Bhavan property
continues to serve as a getaway for the Governor of Maharashtra,
who resides in Mahabaleshwar for a few days during summer when
he attends public functions and pays visits to neighbouring regions to
monitor the progress of various development projects.

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 Architecture

Scenic Mahabaleshwar has been the favoured site

for numerous buildings designated to be summer
residences of the Governor of Bombay. Of these,
the house and grounds of what was formerly known
as Bella Vista, purchased by the Government of
Bombay in 1878, was the first.

The present Raj Bhavan establishment consists of two main houses,

surrounded by service quarters, coach houses and stables. Both houses
evoke a classic colonial look and feel, reminiscent of their predominantly
British heritage.

A picturesque
view of the
surrounding
greenery from
the balcony
of one of the
houses in the
Governors
summer villa.

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 Left: Framed by
the countryside
scenery of
Mahabaleshwar
stands Giri
Laxan, which
serves as the
perfect getaway
for the guests
of the Governor
during hot
summers.

Right: The
cobbled stone
pathway
leading out
of Giri Laxan,
flanked on
either side
by lush plant
foliage, provides
a glimpse into
the simple
yet striking
architecture of
colonial times.

Extreme right:
The Darbar Hall
is a separate
structure
from the other
residences,
with a winding
lane of steps
leading towards
Giri Darshan.

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 Flor a and Fauna

Home to one of the few remaining evergreen forests

of the world, the lush green foliage of Mahabaleshwar
is teeming with a rich variety of flora and fauna. The
Raj Bhavan property consequently abounds with
a vast range of commercial and medicinal herbs,
wildlife, fruit and vegetable plantations and more.

The plant and animal life in the neighbouring forest of the Governors
summer residence in Mahabaleshwar is a magnificent spectacle
of nature. The diversity of wildlife in the region is staggering. The
surrounding greenery is lush with plantations of strawberries,
raspberries, red potatoes, French beans, carrots and several varieties
of fruits and vegetables.

The following chapter takes us into the heart of the environment of the
Governors Mahabaleshwar residence to discover a veritable treasure
trove of biodiversity hidden within.

The Governors
summer villa in
Mahabaleshwar
is home to
a vast and
widespread
range of flora
and fauna.

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 The residences
A scenic are sprinkled
pathway with countless
through the wild species of
dense foliage plants, earning
near the Mahabaleshwar
Governors villa its rightful
serves as the identity as
perfect trail a hub of
through nature. biodiversity.

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 LIT TLE-KNOWN FACTS

The Raj Bhavans of Maharashtra have some very

interesting and intriguing features that are seldom
heard about. This chapter offers glimpses of the old
Government Houses and other little-known facts
about the institution of the Raj Bhavan of Maharashtra.

The Devi
Temple in Raj
Bhavan is
dedicated to a
goddess who
is referred
to by various
names Sri
Gundi, Sagar
Mata (Mother of
the Sea), and
Sakalaai Devi
(Mother of all).

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The history
of the Raj
Bhavans begins
within the walls
of the Bombay
Castle that once
housed the
famous Manor
House, which
served as the
political and
administrative
headquarters of Now known as
British power in the Haffkine
Western India. Institute, this
The Portuguese site was once
Gate of the the celebrated
castle is Parel House,
now a part an important
of the Naval link in the chain
establishment, of Government
INS Angre. Houses.

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 Tucked away in
The pet the biodiversity
cemetery park of the
was built as Raj Bhavan in
a memoriam Nagpur is a
to the pets of small outhouse
the Governors that serves as
who have lived the Information
within in the Centre for
Raj Bhavan. the park.

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 The
The All Saints Government
Church in House at
Khadki, Pune Ganeshkhind
still holds pews in Pune used
marked with to be the
brass plaques Governors
reserving residence
them for the during the pre-
Governor of Independence
Maharashtra era. Post
and the General Independence,
Officer in it was handed
Command. The over to the
pews also have University of
slots to Pune as their
rest rifles. headquarters.

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R A J BHAVA NS OF M A HA R A SHTR A R AJ BH AVAN S OF M AH AR A S H T R A
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 EVENTS AND
MEMORABLE VISITS

The halls and lawns of the Raj Bhavans of

Maharashtra have had the honour of hosting a
number of dignitaries. Within the four walls of the
bhavans, several important decisions have been made
and some hearty laughs shared by figures who have
contributed to history.

The following chapter is a collection of a few memorable moments in the

history of Maharashtra, glimpses of the At Home reception hosted by
The then Prime
the Governor and protocol practices observed in respect of the Governor. Minister of India,
Pt. Jawaharlal
Nehru, unveiling
the neon map
of Maharashtra
on the
momentous
occasion of
the formation
of the State of
Maharashtra
along with the
first Chief
Minister
of the State,
Yashwantrao
B. Chavan and
Governor Sri
Prakasa (left) on
May 1, 1960.
DGIPR, Maharashtra

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 Left: Governor
Sankaranarayanan
leads dignitaries
into the Republic
Day At Home
reception with his
wife Radha and
Chief Minister
Prithviraj Chavan.

Below: Prithviraj
Chavan entertaining
the States guests
on Republic Day.

Above: President
emeritus, Smt.
Pratibha Patil
hosted a high tea
at the Mumbai Raj
Bhavan to honour
the Indian Cricket
Team a day after it
won the ICC World
Cup in 2011.
Arun Kulkarni

Right: The
ceremonial
lowering of the
National Flag
at Raj Bhavan,
which takes place
at sunset every
evening.

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 Left: The first Indian
Governor of Bombay,
Raja Maharaj Singh,
being administered
the Oath of Office
by the Honble Shri
M.C. Chagla, C.J. on
January 6, 1948.
The Times of India Group.
Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd.
All Rights Reserved

Below: The first

Chief Minister of
Maharashtra YB
Chavan taking
oath from the
then Governor of
Maharashtra, Sri
Prakasa on May 1,
1960 at Sachivalaya.
DGIPR, Maharashtra

Right and above:

Governor
Sankaranarayanan
accepting the
guard of honour on
his arrival at the
Nagpur Raj Bhavan.

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 the governors gallery

Raja Maharaj Singh Shri Girija Shankar Bajpai Dr. Harekrishna Mahtab Air Chief Marshal I.H. Latif, Shri Kona Prabhakar Rao Dr. Shanker Dayal Sharma
[Jan 6, 1948 May 29, 1952] [May 30, 1952 Dec 5, 1954] [Mar 2, 1955 Oct 14, 1956] PVSM (Retd.) [May 31, 1985 Apr 2, 1986] [Apr 3, 1986 Sep 2, 1987]
[Mar 6, 1982 Apr 16, 1985]

Shri Sri Prakasa Dr. P. Subbarayan Smt. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit Dr. P.V. Cherian Shri K. Brahmananda Reddy Shri C. Subramaniam Dr. P.C. Alexander Shri Mohd. Fazal
[Dec 10, 1956 Apr 16, 1962] [Apr 17, 1962 Oct 6, 1962] [Nov 28, 1962 Oct 18, 1964] [Nov 14, 1964 Nov 8, 1969] [Feb 20, 1988 Jan 18, 1990] [Feb 15, 1990 Jan 9, 1993] [Jan 12, 1993 Jul 13, 2002] [Oct 10, 2002 Dec 5, 2004]

Nawab Ali Yavar Jung Shri Sadiq Ali Air Chief Marshal O.P. Mehra, Shri S.M. Krishna Shri S.C. Jamir Shri K. Sankaranarayanan
[Feb 26, 1970 Dec 11, 1976] [Apr 30, 1977 Nov 2, 1980] PVSM (Retd.) [Dec 6, 2004 Mar 8, 2008] [Jul 19, 2008 Jan 21, 2010] [Jan 22, 2010 present]
[Nov 3, 1980 Mar 5, 1982]

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 amongst the most charming spots,
however, is the bold promontory, known as
Malabar Point, and crowned with a mansion,
originally the residence of Sir John Malcolm,
now set apart for the accommodation of
the Governor, when the heat becomes
oppressive at Parell. This agreeable resort
pitched upon the tall and rocky headland, like
an eyrie above the waves commands a varied
and extensive view, lovely at all times, but
more particularly so when the suns broad
golden disc is half obscured below the azure
waters, and the feathery tips of the coconut
woods retain their amber-tinted hues
Description of Raj Bhavan by a 19th
Century traveler, Mrs. Postans.

Maharashtra Raj Bhavan is one of the most

beautiful Raj Bhavans in India. You can see
the sunrise; you can see the sunset. It is
spectacular. And then its covered from
three sides by the sea.
S.M. Krishna,
Governor of Maharashtra (2004-2008)

Raj Bhavans of Maharashtra