Learnings from Past: Heritage Town of Saswad—Potentials and Challenges

Abstract

Heritage and medieval town planning offer invaluable insights into how communities organised themselves in the past, reflecting social, economic, and cultural structures that can still be relevant today. The present paper begins with a discussion on the origin and evolution of the historic town of Saswad, a heritage town in Deccan region. The second part outlines the methodology devised to understand the cultural significance of Saswad, particularly in terms of its built heritage. Further discussions unfold various historical factors integral to the town’s development processes, aiming to comprehend the town as a cultural resource. The concluding section scrutinises issues related to heritage preservation in Saswad, providing concise guidelines for formulating a comprehensive Conservation Policy. The study employs observation and visual analysis methods, mapping, and inventories to support the arguments developed in the process of research.

Keywords

Conservation Management, Heritage, Heritage Typology, Historic towns, Medieval Town planning.

Introduction

Saswad is a small-scale town well known for its history and context in the region. In the rapid phase of urbanisation, it still retains its character both in a tangible and intangible way. It has a population of 1,31,821 covering an administrative area of 2256 hectares, (22.56, square kilometres). It is located on state highway no. 36 on the Pune-Saswad-Neera Road.i A major proportion of the population is dependent upon agriculture and urbanisation has led to a change in occupational patterns, brought about by industrialisation. The Development Plan Report of 2008 describes about migration of people and major shifts in occupational trends in Saswad. There is an expansion on the western side of the town towards Pune given the natural barriers on north and south side of town. On north side, the terrain is high and there is no agricultural land. The Karha River is located on the south side and therefore there is no space for expansion of the town in that direction. Industrial development – Kirloskar Pneumatics Pvt. Ltd. Plant is coming on northwest side that is pulling major crowd for secondary and tertiary source of income. Many industries are appearing in the region. Dependence on Primary sector is tremendously diminishing. An upcoming airport near Saswad has now triggered development of the town as a satellite town of Pune (Fig. 1).

Figure 1: Regional context of Saswad map

Historic Town of Saswadii

Urbanisation significantly accelerated after colonisation in the historic medieval towns of Maharashtra, particularly around the Deccan Plateau. This marked the beginning of a transformation in the character of small settlements. Changes occurred on multiple levels, including the imposition of new town planning systems and the emergence of secondary occupational opportunities, both of which spurred migration from nearby villages.

Pune, which served as the capital of the Peshwas in the 18th century and later developed into a colonial administrative centre, is a notable example. It evolved into a city with dual identities—representing two distinct urban forms within one settlement.

Saswad, located near Pune and serving as a key link to southern India via the Dive and Bapdev Ghats, also experienced a significant transformation. It reflects the transition from a traditional village to an emerging urban centre.

Methodology

Figure 2: Flowchart for methodology followed

Flowchart 2 shows how the methodology framework was prepared to study the historic town of Saswad to identify tangible, intangible elements as heritage potential of a town. Historic town of Saswad, well - known medieval town in the Deccan flourished during the later Maratha period under the local philanthropist and minister, popularly known as Sardar Purandare, marks its presence in various ways. Numerous tangible and intangible historic elements define distinctive character of Saswad. Settlement of Saswad flourished at the confluence of two rivers Krha and Chambali. Various historical references and archaeological findings suggest that the town of Saswad, has roots going back to the Satavahana period. As per mythological stories, the name originated from seven banyan trees existed long back. Saswad demonstrates a typical Maratha style settlement in Deccan region. This consists of an old core area protected with remains of fortification wall which was intact few centuries back. Settlement has central axis connecting edge of the river and market street. Location of Purandare mansion, right at the middle of town is protected by very strong fortification wall surrounded with mansions of other ministers of Purandare family (Fig. 3). Various wards were evolved around this huge mansion as supporting agents and support system to the entire town. As the growth was very organic in nature, it reflected in the meandering roads developed around.

Figure 3: Purandare mansionSource: Image by Abhishek Sukale

Pratyush Shankar rightly observed that it is not always landmarks that remain in your mind and memories associations, but there are many local symbols that contribute to placemaking (Shankar, 2012). Same is evident at Saswad where several layers of history are still evident in the form of its residential, mixed use and religious typology.

The meandering road pattern of the town reveals a settlement organically developed over time, with distinct areas such as Shimpi Ali, Borate Ali, Jagtap Ali, Brahmin Ali, and others, each named after the occupational communities that settled there. These neighbourhood divisions reflect the social and professional structure of the town, with each group occupying specific zones based on their trades and the period of their establishment. The alignment, location, and architectural character of the houses not only narrate the town’s historical evolution but also embody the hierarchical, feudal organisation typical of medieval urban development. Shah(2012);Venkatrama, (1994).

Main axis of town connects both the important parts of town those are open market space at one end whereas riverside on the other. The Purandare Mansion (Fig. 3), a royal residence in the town, served as the architectural prototype for the construction of Shaniwarwada in Pune—the seat of power during the Peshwa rule. The Maratha town planning system that emerged was shaped by the political vision and administrative strategies of various Maratha ministers up to the early 19th century. This distinctive planning pattern reflected the socio-political hierarchy and spatial organisation characteristic of the Maratha era. (Gazetteer of the Bombay Presidency Poona,1954); Oak Pramod, 2011).

Architectural elements such as arches, merlons, and lime stucco serve as tangible evidence of the diverse influences that have shaped the town’s architectural style.over several centuries. A confluence of Islamic, Gujarati, and Maratha structural and decorative traditions is prominently reflected in the built environment. These stylistic influences are not limited to individual buildings but are apparent at both the macro level—in the overall town planning—and the micro level, in the architectural details and construction techniques. Together, they form a layered narrative of the town’s cultural and historical evolution.

Data Base

Heritage Potential of Historic Settlement of Saswad

Further discussion on heritage potential of Saswad demarcates its character as an important medieval settlement still retaining character in the old Gavthan area. While understanding conflicts between old and new it is essential to know what is still existing there and why it is so important to know as a layer of architectural history and unique language it demonstrates. Various typologies of built heritage demonstrate architectural character of medieval settlement. Spatial organisation in residential, mixed use, religious, and commercial areas is identified and expressed in further discussion.

Residential Architecture

Various residential typologies and hierarchy of spaces could be observed at various locations in the old town. Cortile planning, housing patterns with front and backyard and mixed use pattern typology is prominently seen in different wards such as Brahmin Ali, Jagtap Ali and Shimpi Ali. Various houses act as support systems during Wari procession when lakhs of people proceed to Pandharpur during Wari (Varshiki, 2008; Saswad City Council, 2020; Sowani Avinash, 2011). Clear segregation in terms of different casts seen in various quarters of the town such as Brahmin predominantly located in Brahmin Ali with more than 30 cortile mansion typologies. Where as Jagtap Ali demonstrating front and backyard home and Shimpi Ali with mixed use typology with common walls in linear plots are visibly adorned with cast iron balconies and wooden brackets.

Public courtyards also called as Phadacha Chowk whereas private courtyard called as Chowk that was mainly used by women in the house (Fig. 4 and 5).

This Khajgicha Chowk is mainly surrounded by rooms for women and a puja room for worshipping family deities. Service area mainly consists of detached toilets and servants rooms usually located on the left side of Wada (Fig. 8) towards south. Out of these mansions, some are in a good condition and still in use but others are replaced with tall concrete apartments catering to the needs of the new generation.

Jagtap Ali consists of 98 houses with both front and backyards exhibiting identical features. The Jagtaps primarily worked as farmers. Over time, a distinctive architectural style emerged, featuring a unique flair for including the development of space hierarchy tailored to practical needs.

A protective compound wall encircles the house. The Padvi serves as a significant semi-open seating area, welcoming all guests at a public space within the house. The Sopa, a closed living area, functions as a seating area where outsiders are typically not permitted to enter. The Majghar, a dark storage area, is primarily utilised by the women of the households. The Swaympak Ghar, situated at the rear, functions as the kitchen where cooking is predominantly done by the women. Facilities such as the water tank, toilet, and bath are separate from the main house. The Parasbag, or backyard open space, serves as an area for drying clothes and other activities.

Figure 4: Mapping for residential units still retaining its character in Brahmin Ali

Figure 5: Image showing internal courtyard of Bokil Wada

Primarily, construction relies on locally sourced materials. The ground floor is built with sturdy stone walls, while the first floor predominantly features flat brick walls. A composite structure is employed, combining load-bearing stone walls with timber-framed elements. Mansions exhibit an introverted layout in their planning.

In Shimpi Ali (Fig. 6, 7, 9 and 10) and other commercial Alis, approximately 140 mixed-use houses are observed, featuring shops with display platforms on the ground floor and residential areas on the first floor. The spatial arrangement typically begins with the Padvi area adjacent to the road, historically used for commercial purposes but still serves that function to some extent. The Osari functions as a seating area for visitors. Similar spatial hierarchy, including storage areas like Majgharas, kitchens primarily located at the rear, separate service areas, and backyards, is evident in all houses (Fig. 11). These houses employ comparable construction techniques and materials. However, they tend to be smaller in scale and feature an extroverted planning approach. The segregation and planning of Saswad distinctly illustrate the hierarchy of castes and classes. Various wards have emerged, and the architectural planning and character reflect the diverse communities that have settled in the town over time (Fig. 11 and 12).

Figure 6: Houses in Shimpi AliSource: Image by Rohan Bhosale

Figure 7: Layout of a house in Shimpi Ali

Figure 8: Documentation of one Wada changing its face and now major part of it is in dilapidated condition (Red dotted line is part of Wada which is in damaged condition), made by Vaidehi Lavand (Dotted line, appearing in the Plans on the left figure appearing in the elevation on right figure, is a part of Wada which is in damaged condition.)

Figure 9: Layout Showing Houses in Shimpi Ali still retains their old character

Figure 10: Layout of Jagtap Ali locating existing old houses retaining its old character

Figure 11: Plan and section of a Residence in Jagtap Ali

Figure 12: Front open space in a house at Jagtap Ali

Religious Architecture

Religious architecture encompasses the design and building of structures dedicated to worship sacred spaces, including churches, mosques, stupas, temples, and more. Human worship initially centred around natural elements such as the sun, moon, rain, and trees. Over time, this evolved into the worship of idols, leading to the creation of dedicated spaces within structures to house these idols—each representing specific deities and associated myths.

Mapping done by Vaidehi Lavand

The evolution from simple menhirs to elaborate temple complexes narrates the tales of temple origins, the magnificent periods of their construction, and the layers of history that have influenced the region (Fig. 13 and 14).

Figure 13: Mapping of religious typology at Saswad

Figure 14: Different communities residing in separate wards in Saswad

Total number of temples is 16 in Saswad

-7 to 10 samadhis;

-2 dargahs;

-Some of the important temples like Vateshwar, Siddheshwar temples are situated along Karha built during Yadava period;

-Sopandev temple near chambali/ Bhogavati river is from Dyaneshwar / Preshivaji period; and

-Sangameshwar temple which is on the confl uence of Chambali and Karha rivers belongs to peshwa period.

From the 11th century onwards, the Deccan region faced political instability due to invasions from both northern and southern parts of India. An illustrative example from this period is the ‘Sopandev’s samadhi’ (Fig. 15), located alongside the riverside of Saswad, dating back to the 11th century, dedicated to Sopandev, brother of the saint Dnyaneshwar. Additionally, the samadhi of Baji Pasalkar, a minister during the Shivaji era in the 15th century, lies in the heart of the historic city of Saswad. Nearby temples such as the Shiva temple at ‘Hiware’ and the Shiva temple on Narayanpur road, known as ‘Vateshwar’, exemplify the ‘Vesara style,’ which incorporates elements from both the Nagar and Dravidian architectural styles. Scholars specialising in Indian temple architecture provide insightful critiques by analysing the characteristics of these locally emerged structures in depth. Throughout history, diverse empires have utilised religion and religious sites for both destruction and construction as part of their political strategies. Similar examples of this phenomenon can also be observed in Saswad.

Figure 15: Kund at Sopandev Samadhi

Two categories of temples are noticeable in and around the vicinity of Saswad:

1. Individual Temples

2. Temple complexes

Individual temples could be further categorised as public and private temples. Other religious elements observed are Samadhisiii, individual cults and many such examples. Illustrations other than Hindu temples are rarely found in the neighbourhood. This expresses the prevalence of Hindu community in and around town.

As per the survey conducted in historic core of Saswad, religious structures are listed and documented as the landmarks of the settlement. Important of those are mentioned is the list further. Some of the important are mentioned below-

Figure 16: View of Sangameshwar temple

List of Temples

1. Sangameshwar Temple (Fig. 16)

2. Ganpati Temple (Fig. 17)

3. Nagareshwar Temple

4. Shani Temple

5. Kalabhairav Temple (Fig. 18)

6. Karabai Temple

7. Munjaba Temple

8. Murlidhar Temple

9. Vateshwar Temple

10. Maruti Temple

11. Durga Temple

List of Samadhis

1. Sopandev Samadhi

2. Baji Pasalkar Samadhi

3. Godaji Jagtap Samadhi

Grading of heritage structures in town

Figure 17: Ganesha Temple

Figure 18: Kalbhairavnath Temple

Existing heritage sites could be categorised into specific ways after undergoing classification through specially designed inventories, taking into account criteria set forth by UNESCO World Heritage Sites and locally established guidelines such as those provided by INTACH grading.

1. Purandare Wada 

2. Sangameshwar Temple

3. Vateshwar Temple

4. Tahsildar Kacheri

5. Kalbhairav temple

6. New Shimpi Ali

7. Brahmin Ali comprising big scale courtyard mansions

8. Wari in town – Cultural landscape

9. Karha river side – Natural Heritage

As mentioned by INTACH and based on a study conducted on the heritage core of Saswad, Heritage Grade-III comprises buildings and precincts important for the townscape, which evoke architectural, aesthetic, or sociological interest, though not to the same extent as those in Heritage Grade-II.(INTACH)(Lavand, 2018).

1. “Sopandev Temple

2. Godhaji Jagtap samadhi

3. Baji Pasalkar samadhi

4. Pars community seating areas in historic town

5. Samjai Temple in Brahmin Ali

6. Gansh Temple near Purandare Mansion” (Lavand, 2018)

Table 1: As per field work prepared by the author

Issues related to regulations for Gaothan and similar congested areas as specified in DP (referred in the year 2008)

Figure 19: Heritage map of Saswad Prepared

Old town has maximum population density but it is in one of the most neglected conditions at the moment. Gross density in core area is 684.66/hectare whereas Gross Density in new area is 24.71/hectare. These statistics show maximum population density could be seen in old core zone. Southern part of old town near Karha River is least developed as most of the commercial area has been encroached upon by the main Bazar Road. But this area has the maximum potential of being an important recreational and natural heritage. The proposed River Development Project includes maximum old mansions which are 300 to 350 years old and are architecturally rich. Temples having significant architectural character are Sangameshwar, Kalbhairav, Sopandev, Samjai, Karhabai, and Ram Temple all of which are are located in the old precinct area. Except for a cinema hall,there is no other recreational facilities in Saswad. Many Wadas are neglected and in dilapidated condition in old core. Due to these poor civic conditions, many families are forced to shift to Pune or in newly developing areas. Saswad is now fast developing as a suburb of Pune. It comes under Municipal Council C type. The infrastructural facilities include six primary schools, two high schools, and one higher educational Institute. As per Development Plan Report, Primary health centre dispensary and maternity home run by Municipal Council, and one private hospital—all of which are located in the vicinity of retail shops, Vegetable market, fish and mutton market to cater to the communities settled there. Table 1 depicts the heritage potential of Saswad.

Review of the Existing Byelaws

As per the existing byelaws, following points have been observed.

Upcoming buildings in the historic core area are proposed to have 12 m wide roads, hampering streetscape and heritage structures. In case of monuments, there is a need to frame suitable rules, while taking into account the architectural vocabulary developed over the period of time.

Rules have also been enforced for the front open spaces such as for the streets of 7.5m to less than 12m width, 1m set back is proposed; for the streets 12 m and above 1.5m whereas for the streets less than 7.5m in width no set back is required unless there is 4.5m clear distances of structural projections. For the streets of 4.5 m widths, a setback of 2.25m should be there from centreline of such lanes. Streets less than 4.5 m that shall be treated as lanes. Despite their narrowness from part of traffic circulation system widening should be proposed and normal setback mentioned above shall be applied. Balconies, cornices, weather sheds, roof projections shall be allowed in setback will not be considered in built over area. Built up area in Gaothan area shall not be more than 75 per cent. Maximum height of building shall be 2 storeys. In case of buildings with two story is to be constructed the built over area shall not be more than 60 per cent. No such specifications mentioned for use of specific materials for building construction in any part of the town. These basic points cover no much description related to the elements and vocabulary of new constructions and control over its character.

Discussion: Issues related to built heritage

Piecharts in Fig. 20 show the results of actual surveys. 48 per cent of the total houses in historic core are vacant and in a dilapidated state whereas 44per cent houses are on rent. Only 8 per cent houses are in use by their actual owners.

The addition of new services such as electric fittings, sanitary pipes, and water tanks is often carried out with minimal regard for traditional construction techniques.

This negligence has led to several structural issues. For instance, the installation of water tanks and toilets has introduced significant dead loads, causing structural stress and, in some cases, visible damage.

Figure 20: Condition of Heritage Structures in Saswad 

Moreover, the construction of additional floors without a proper understanding of the building’s structural capacity has further compromised the integrity of many structures. Various parts of these buildings are now in a state of disrepair and are not being utilised properly.

A major challenge is the loss of traditional craftsmanship. Skills related to working with materials like stone, lime, fine brickwork, and intricate wooden carvings are becoming increasingly rare. The use of modern materials, such as cement, is incompatible with older lime-based plasters, leading to problems like water seepage.

In addition, sanitary services are often installed haphazardly, creating issues at multiple levels of the structure. The continued deterioration of original materials underscores the urgent need for regular maintenance.

Lastly, debris and scrap materials from demolished sections of old structures are accumulating, creating unsightly and hazardous conditions in the surrounding areas.

Proposed Policies and Guidelines

The primary goals of policy formation are to safeguard and elevate the distinctive heritage essence of Saswad. This involves conserving noteworthy structures and architectural elements while ensuring that new designs align with Saswad’s heritage identity. It is essential that alterations to existing buildings complement and enrich Saswad’s heritage character. Policies would help in maintaining identity of Saswad as an important heritage town. New policies and guidelines will support and encourage pedestrian amenities by maintaining human-scaled development, connections to adjacent neighbourhoods, and a welcoming, interesting sidewalk environment. Those will help in encouraging the redevelopment and revitalisation of underutilised sites to enhance Saswad heritage character. Engaging residents, property owners, business proprietors, and other interested parties in the evolution of Saswad requires the discussion and development of new guidelines pertaining to the town.

Changes in Legislations

While reviewing byelaws it was observed that there are a lot of lacunas in existing rules related to development of historic core of the town. After brainstorming related to the existing fabric of the town, few guidelines considering context should be made. First and foremost, revision should be done in FSI that can be restricted to 1.5 or less for the old historic core. Changes should be made in byelaws according to scale and proportions of existing heritage buildings. There is a need to form a Heritage Conservation Committee, to regulate any kind of alteration in the core area. There is an urgent need to stop reconstruction in the vicinity. Scale and proportions of upcoming structures and material technological aspects need to be controlled well. While considering issues related to road widening, there is a need to look for meticulous plan to redirect traffic from narrow lanes to avoid possible loss of the character of the built heritage.

Pedestrianisation of some parts of the core area can be a better solution to avoid unnecessary traffic. With a methodical approach to the core town there is a need to prepare inventories to listing of these important heritage structures. Entire precinct of old core town rather individual structure needs to be considered under conservation management plan. Indeed, tangible and intangible contribute to the heritage character of historic town of Saswad. With a holistic approach there is a need to have a relook at all the existing byelaws and regulations especially for the core town.

As an important part of our shared heritage, preserving the plurality of architectural expressions—each shaped by its own historical context—requires a dedicated set of guidelines and principles.

Maintaining the Historic Character of the Town

Concepts such as 15 min city, happy streets, eyes on street could be explored further in the context of core heritage towns. Study done by Pratyush Shankar on urban form, Jan Gehl opines that the urban voids are significant repositories to apply theory to practice helping in formation of guidelines (Shankar, 2012). Main challenge in maintaining the character of such historic precinct is ownership of structures. Majority of houses are owned by private owners leading to several challenges in restoring character of these important edifices. As mentioned in Form Based Codes, the ‘Modern Traditional’ can be the best approach to sustain these living cultural heritage sites. . Building upon the considerations and guidelines suggested by the AMRUT and HRIDAY schemes, further interventions can be proposed at the policy level to enhance the preservation and revitalisation of heritage structures. (National Institute of Urban Affairs, 2023).

The unique character of the town can be maintained by several ways such as control over overall signage, street furniture, hoarding designs with respect to ambience of old town to avoid mess in visual sense. In the context of precinct-level conservation, new developments must thoughtfully incorporate architectural vocabulary, elements, and principles—such as scale, proportion, and character—that align with the historic fabric and identity identified in the study. While maintaining the street character especially streetscapes, control over any new development reconstruction in selected heritage areas such as Shimpi Ali, Brahmin Ali, Jagtap Ali should be in scale and proportion with the old character. Vocabulary of new developments should respect the historic architectural context. Upcoming public, semi-public structures such as new reservations for school buildings, playgrounds, town hall, library in heritage precincts or near heritage premises may lose essence of aesthetic value of precinct. This should have guidelines for controlling these types of reservations.

Main roads especially Bajarpeth road, new Shimpi Ali or Saraf Ali, Ambaji Pant Purandare Road, are under major transformations. Initially they were having purely mixed-use character but now these are being changed into commercial areas.

As per the survey, commercial activities are encroaching on designated residential zones. This transition needs to be addressed through a meticulous, organized, and well-regulated approach, with specific norms framed to preserve the existing character of the town.

It is imperative that the buildings contributing to the heritage ambience remain intact and not be razed. Renovations of facades within the historic core should faithfully adhere to the original architectural style. Both new constructions and renovated structures should be designed to harmonise with the district’s heritage characteristics, considering factors such as massing, rhythm of solids and voids, notable design elements, and the use of traditional materials and techniques. Implementing adjustments to regulations based on these principles will aid in preserving the character of Saswad’s historic core.

Conclusion

Though the historic core of Saswad is prominently demonstrating its own identity of a medieval settlement, it is suffering through urban pressures such as population growth, modernisation and its recent identity as a satellite town of Pune city. Saswad Gaothan is in the phase of transformation because of the rapid expansion of small settlement to the city. Recent visit to the old core of Saswad shows vanishing character of the built heritage such as newly built structures at the place of old mansions and dilapidated condition of many heritage structures. This transition from a village to a town and then to a city triggers several edges of conflicts. Certainly, a medieval village settlement with a strong character within a modernised city initiates conflicts at several levels. One is conflict of identity as an essential historic layer in the region and another is varied thought process looking towards the heritage still in existence, marking its prevailing presence in the so-called standardisation in modern times. It is essential to understand these conflicts and urgently need to be dealt in a holistic way.

Rapid urbanisation is significantly impacting the overall character of the town. The proposed airport near Saswad and various uncontrolled development projects are placing undue pressure on the historic settlement. This transformation is further compounded by the loss of traditional knowledge and a declining number of artisans skilled in vernacular construction techniques, which has greatly hindered effective restoration practices.

The absence of proper measures for adaptive reuse and a lack of sensitivity in addressing historical and heritage contexts are undermining the character of the historic core. The newly extended town fails to acknowledge the presence and value of the old settlement; instead, it is encroaching upon it. This has led to adverse impacts at all levels—from the broader precinct scale down to individual architectural elements. Recent developments in the built environment have largely turned their backs on both tangible and intangible heritage, as well as the natural heritage embedded in the town’s ecological fabric, which includes two rivers and significant temples. Rapid urbanisation is neither responsive to nor in harmony with the stories, traditions, and cultural layers that are woven into every corner of the historic town.

We can’t freeze the development and change is inevitable but managing change is the requisite for all such settlements in India and Saswad is one of those significant one beholding for better management of change.

Endnotes

(i) Saswad City Council. Information about Saswad town. Accessed on 29th August, 2020, http://saswadnagarparishad.org/

(ii) Saswad is located 40 kilometers away from Pune well known as capital of Peshwas in 18th Century.

(iii) Samadhi is the small-scale sculpture usually located close to temple or riverside.

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