In these modern times, Pune is a pioneer city in terms of education, industrialization and urbanization. But this city has contributed as much to India's history as much as its' present.
Many historical figures who have changed the course of the nation have been from this city. And many events that changed history forever have also been from Pune. Therefore, to better understand the chronicles of Pune we have curated a list of important readings for you which will help you to understand the history of the city and also how it has contributed to the making of present day India.
Written by Samita Gupta and Jaymala Diddee, this book was published in the year 2000. The authors have woven a tale of how Pune as a city has been changed, damaged, risen again and evolved. The book talks about Pune under Bahamani control, Peshwas, British and finally becoming a free land. And all through these different regimes and transfer of power how the city stood the test of time.
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Post-British Pune thus developed two distinct identities: The `city` as the citadel of the Marathi speaking people from all over Maharashtra, and the camp which became a melting pot for people from all over India.
Pune: Queen of the Deccan
If you are someone who finds it hard to get into reading but still wants to read the interesting history of Pune, then this book is for you. A family encyclopedia that can be read by anyone, this book is filled with photos, interesting facts, puzzles and other fun activities while also informing you about the yesteryears of Pune city. This book will take you through a time travelling adventure of the city from the Stone Age settlement to the current metropolitan.
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Many readers of these book have claimed it to be one of the best recreation of ancient Pune in written form. It incorporates the everyday life of people during the Peshwa rule in the city. The book also talks about how the former regime made laws and policies, and conducted daily affairs. The book also mentions British officials who impacted the city during the said time period.
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The best one. Recreates the time period. Didn't know the Peshwas maintained so good a law and order and disciplined beaurocratic order. Writer has mentioned the current situation of most of the places too.
Deepak, a buyer of the book
This is a book that illustrates the rich history of Pune's culture through art. With more than 800 pages, it includes lesser known visuals of the city collected from archives around the world. And through these photo archives the reader gets to engross in a visually enchanting tale of this magnificent city.
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While reading about the grand history of India, we oftentimes overlook the intricate past of our own cities and regions. Hence, this list of books provides essential readings to the modern-day Punekars who wish to know more about this ancient yet modern city.
Also to know more about why Pune is known as "Oxford of the East" click here.
