Pune: The historic Somwar Peth Police Colony, established during the British era, entered its 100th year with a grand celebration event on Sunday (October 20).
Veteran cricketer Chandu Borde, who grew up in the colony, was the chief guest and fondly relived his childhood memories, recalling the time he spent in the small quarters of the police colony and the bonds he formed with his friends.
Established on October 20, 1924, the Somwar Peth Police Colony originally stood amidst dense greenery and agricultural fields in the heart of Pune city.
As Pune expanded, the area transformed, with new buildings emerging around the colony. Initially comprised of small single-story houses, the colony has seen structural changes over the years, with multi-story buildings replacing older homes.
Despite these changes, the spirit of the community remains unique, as residents live in harmony beyond caste and religious differences, celebrating festivals of all faiths together.
To commemorate the centenary, the Somwar Peth Police Colony Centenary Celebration Committee organized an event in the colony's courtyard.
The celebration was graced by notable personalities, including Chandu Borde, Deputy Director of the Land Records Department Rajendra Gole, and actor-director Pravin Tarde, alongside senior police officials.
Borde was honored with a lifetime achievement award for his contributions, while Kishori Shinde, Deputy Commissioner of the Pune Municipal Corporation, received a special award.
Police personnel currently residing in the colony, their families, as well as retired officers and their families who had once lived there, also attended the event.
During the ceremony, Borde spoke about his early cricket training in the colony, where his father served in the police force. He emphasized the close-knit relationships he enjoyed within the community and shared how the experiences shaped his life.
He fondly recalled the names of his childhood friends and the fun they had together. Rajendra Gole and Pravin Tarde also shared their reflections during the program.
The event was organized by the Somwar Peth Police Colony Centenary Celebration Committee, led by Chairman Anil Jagtap, Vice Chairman Prakash Chavan, and Coordinator Dilip Shinde, ensuring the success of this milestone celebration.
‘Line Boys’ Reunite for Centenary Celebration
Known as 'Line Boys,' the children of police officers residing in the colony have gone on to achieve significant milestones in various fields.
Some have secured government positions, advanced to officer ranks, or found success in business. As part of the centenary celebrations, the ‘Line Boys’ gathered with their families on Sunday, sharing stories and reliving old memories.