Samadhi in Baroda with a story to tell

VADODARA: The city is well-known for its ancient edifices that speak of its marvelous heritage. Amid these, the mausoleums of erstwhile ruler of Baroda state Manajirao Gaekwad and his brother Murarrao Gaekwad lie unnoticed.
Manajirao Gaekwad, who ruled the erstwhile Baroda state between 1789 and 1793, has a mausoleum dedicated to him on the banks of Sarasiya talav in Panigate. Manajirao’s brother Murarrao’s tomb is constructed right opposite his magnificent mausoleum.
“Manajirao was noted for his contribution in defining the geographical limits of the Baroda state, which was constantly under siege during his tenure. He closely worked with the British forces to consolidate Baroda state’s position as an independent territory,” said art conservator Chandrashekhar Patil.
Patil added that the samadhi built in memory of Manajirao Gaekwad has a very unique ‘Chatur Mukhi Shivling’ in its inner sanctum. The unique Shivlinga is replica of the Shivlingas that were worshiped during the time of Chandragupta Maurya.
At present, both the samadhis lie overshadowed amidst the clamour of the city and a polluted pond. The people who frequent the spot are unaware of its history.
“The bank of the pond has the royal samadhi’s as well as Islamic tombs in its vicinity. The surrounding of the samadhis is now infested by notorious elements during the night,” said Kalidas Kachhiya, an art enthusiast.
Kachhiya added that both samadhis were ornate and had intricate art works, but time and layers of lime stone coatings have faded their glory. The samadhis are flanked with small shops of scrap dealers and fabrication works.
Manajirao died in 1793 and Murarrao is believed to have died in 1795. While Manajirao died due to physical ailment and old age, Murrarao is believed to have committed suicide. “After the death of Manajirao, Govindrao Gaekwad was made the ruler. Murrarao, who was upset over not being made the ruler, is said to have consumed poison and killed himself,” said Patil.