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India.com
12-07-2025
- India.com
10 Unbelievable Facts About Vadodara You've Never Seen On Google!
Historically, Vadodara (commonly known as Baroda) is one of the most important cities in Gujarat. 'Cultural Capital of Gujarat' is yet another name Vadodara is known for, where ancient traditions blend perfectly with modernization. Here are ten interesting facts about Vadodara that you need to know, starting from the city's royal heritage to the modern booming art industry. 1. Historical Significance and Name Origin The Sanskrit words 'vat' meaning 'banyan tree' and 'odar' 'a place to rest' are the roots of the name Vadodara deriving as 'a banyan tree resting place'. Chalukyas, Gaekwads, and Solankis all repeatedly conquered this city. Gaekwad dynasty in British India makes the city get its recognition as the capital city of Baroda princely state. 2. The Gaekwad Legacy Baroda's identity has greatly changed because of the Gaekwad family. Starting from 1875 to 1939, the Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III made a lot of memorable changes and is quoted for his reformatory legends. The monarch gave birth to one of the world famous private houses, the Palace of Baroda & Villas. 3. Lakshmi Vilas Palace: A Symbol of Grandeur Vadodara hosts the architectural masterpiece 'Lakshmi Vilas Palace' which is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It showcases a residential palace of the Gaekwad dynasty and in addition, it also features a golf course in its lavish garden, making it one of the most unique royal properties in the country. In addition it also boasts of a museum. 4. A Hub for Education Vadodara also happens to be patriotic when it comes to having some of the finest educational institutions in India, such as MSU. Made up in 1949, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) is one the oldest universities in Gujarat, India. Since its inception, it's been a center of excellence, producing a healthy number of scientists, artists, and politicians. The city is also home to a number of other prestigious colleges and schools elevating its reputation as an educational hub. 5. Cultural Melting Pot Vadodara is famous as the cultural capital of Gujrat for its unique blend of people, cuisines, art, and festivals. Peoples' jovial spirit can be observed during the Garba dance in Navratri while people from all corners of India come to celebrate it. This city is also the host of VadFest, a multi-arts festival celebrating music, dance, theater, and visual arts. 6. Industrial development and its economic significance Vadodara serves as an important industrial hub of Gujarat. It is colloquially referred to as 'Detroit of India' because of its automobile industry. General Motors, ABB, and Alstom have settled here. City's contribution also includes pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and IT services. 7. Parks and green areas Vadodara is an urban metropolis, but it also has many green spaces. Sayaji Baug or Kamati Baug is one of the oldest and biggest gardens in western India. The 113 acre garden also has a zoo and a museum. Sursagar Lake Garden and Ajwa Park are also popular among the residents who wish to relax in nature. 8. Tempting vegetarian dishes from gujarat Food paradise Vadodara serves delicious Gujarati dishes along with other international cuisines. Locals love dhokla, khandvi, undhiyu, and fafda-jalebi. Street food lovers visit Mandvi and Raopura for chaats and pav bhaji. The city has an increasing number of cafes and fine dining restaurants for visitors looking for international food. 9. Artistic Heritage Vadodara has a long standing history with arts and creativity. The Faculty of Fine Arts of MSU is famous for its wonderful artists, sculptors, and designers. In the city, art galleries like the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery hold exhibitions showcasing art from Indian and foreign painters. This heritage undoubtedly makes Vadodara a paradise for art lovers. 10. Strategic Location and Connectivity Vadodara is situated by the bank of Vishwamitri River which gives it good road and rail, as well as air travel connections. Its Airport serves flights from and to various other Indian cities. The Railway Station, one of Gujarat's busiest, is located at Baroda and its proximity to Ahmedabad and Mumbai makes the city very important for business and travel. Conclusion Vadodara is a mingled city of culture and technology , beautiful nature as well as city planning. In the city, one can find majestic palaces, sculptures and gorges of different artistic styles, tasty food, and vibrant art culture which are some of the things that the city offers to its visitors. These 10 facts are far less than what the city truly offers making it a must visit place for those willing to explore the heart of gujarat.
India.com
10-07-2025
- India.com
10 Jaw-Dropping Facts About Vadodara They Don't Teach You In School
Historically, Vadodara (commonly known as Baroda) is one of the most important cities in Gujarat. 'Cultural Capital of Gujarat' is yet another name Vadodara is known for, where ancient traditions blend perfectly with modernization. Here are ten interesting facts about Vadodara that you need to know, starting from the city's royal heritage to the modern booming art industry. 1. Historical Significance and Name Origin The Sanskrit words 'vat' meaning 'banyan tree' and 'odar' 'a place to rest' are the roots of the name Vadodara deriving as 'a banyan tree resting place'. Chalukyas, Gaekwads, and Solankis all repeatedly conquered this city. Gaekwad dynasty in British India makes the city get its recognition as the capital city of Baroda princely state. 2. The Gaekwad Legacy Baroda's identity has greatly changed because of the Gaekwad family. Starting from 1875 to 1939, the Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III made a lot of memorable changes and is quoted for his reformatory legends. The monarch gave birth to one of the world famous private houses, the Palace of Baroda & Villas. 3. Lakshmi Vilas Palace: A Symbol of Grandeur Vadodara hosts the architectural masterpiece 'Lakshmi Vilas Palace' which is built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It showcases a residential palace of the Gaekwad dynasty and in addition, it also features a golf course in its lavish garden, making it one of the most unique royal properties in the country. In addition it also boasts of a museum. 4. A Hub for Education Vadodara also happens to be patriotic when it comes to having some of the finest educational institutions in India, such as MSU. Made up in 1949, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) is one the oldest universities in Gujarat, India. Since its inception, it's been a center of excellence, producing a healthy number of scientists, artists, and politicians. The city is also home to a number of other prestigious colleges and schools elevating its reputation as an educational hub. 5. Cultural Melting Pot Vadodara is famous as the cultural capital of Gujrat for its unique blend of people, cuisines, art, and festivals. Peoples' jovial spirit can be observed during the Garba dance in Navratri while people from all corners of India come to celebrate it. This city is also the host of VadFest, a multi-arts festival celebrating music, dance, theater, and visual arts. 6. Industrial development and its economic significance Vadodara serves as an important industrial hub of Gujarat. It is colloquially referred to as 'Detroit of India' because of its automobile industry. General Motors, ABB, and Alstom have settled here. City's contribution also includes pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and IT services. 7. Parks and green areas Vadodara is an urban metropolis, but it also has many green spaces. Sayaji Baug or Kamati Baug is one of the oldest and biggest gardens in western India. The 113 acre garden also has a zoo and a museum. Sursagar Lake Garden and Ajwa Park are also popular among the residents who wish to relax in nature. 8. Tempting vegetarian dishes from gujarat Food paradise Vadodara serves delicious Gujarati dishes along with other international cuisines. Locals love dhokla, khandvi, undhiyu, and fafda-jalebi. Street food lovers visit Mandvi and Raopura for chaats and pav bhaji. The city has an increasing number of cafes and fine dining restaurants for visitors looking for international food. 9. Artistic Heritage Vadodara has a long standing history with arts and creativity. The Faculty of Fine Arts of MSU is famous for its wonderful artists, sculptors, and designers. In the city, art galleries like the Baroda Museum & Picture Gallery hold exhibitions showcasing art from Indian and foreign painters. This heritage undoubtedly makes Vadodara a paradise for art lovers. 10. Strategic Location and Connectivity Vadodara is situated by the bank of Vishwamitri River which gives it good road and rail, as well as air travel connections. Its Airport serves flights from and to various other Indian cities. The Railway Station, one of Gujarat's busiest, is located at Baroda and its proximity to Ahmedabad and Mumbai makes the city very important for business and travel. Wrapping Up Vadodara is a mingled city of culture and technology , beautiful nature as well as city planning. In the city, one can find majestic palaces, sculptures and gorges of different artistic styles, tasty food, and vibrant art culture which are some of the things that the city offers to its visitors. These 10 facts are far less than what the city truly offers making it a must visit place for those willing to explore the heart of gujarat.
Time of India
04-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
VMC revives proposal for new bridge at Kamatibaug Zoo
Vadodara: The Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) will go ahead with the construction of a new bridge for visitors at the Kamatibaug Zoo. The existing bridge, built during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, was shut to the public in 2023 due to safety concerns. The bridge, which links the aviary with the main zoo premises, was first closed to heavy and four-wheel vehicles in 2022, after signs of structural ageing were noted. Following the Morbi bridge collapse later that year, authorities decided to completely bar public access to the old bridge. For a while, it was used only by zoo and garden officials, but even that was stopped after the VMC's bridge department raised fresh red flags over its safety. Plans to build a parallel bridge have been under consideration since last year. However, the civic body's standing committee initially rejected the proposal when the lowest bid for the construction turned out to be 35% higher than the estimated cost. Even after negotiations, the revised bid stood 32.3% above the Rs 11.64 crore estimate. The contractor had quoted Rs 14.62 crore, which the committee found too steep. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The proposal was then returned with a suggestion to explore the possibility of strengthening or restoring the heritage bridge. A report by Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT), Surat, later confirmed that the existing bridge could not be strengthened or rehabilitated. Zoo officials, meanwhile, have been pushing for a new bridge, pointing out that the lack of direct access has disrupted daily operations. Staff now have to take longer routes to transport food and other supplies. Visitors — especially schoolchildren and senior citizens — are also facing inconvenience as they have to walk extra distances to access different sections of the zoo due to the closure of the old bridge. In light of the SVNIT findings and the challenges faced by zoo personnel and the public, a new proposal has been drafted. Sources said the same contractor who submitted the original bid last year has now agreed to maintain the quoted price and extend the validity of the tender. The revised proposal has once again been submitted to the standing committee and is expected to come up for discussion later this week.
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Barrage project near Ajwa reservoir set to begin post-monsoon
Vadodara: The irrigation department has initiated the process to appoint an agency for the construction of a barrage parallel to the Ajwa reservoir, a key step in the city's long-term flood mitigation plan. The project was one of the recommendations made by the high-power committee formed for flood control in Vadodara. The Ajwa reservoir, situated around 20 km from the city, is a crucial source of drinking water and dates back to 1890. It was built on the Surya rivulet during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of the erstwhile Baroda state. The earthen dam currently channels its overflow into the Vishwamitri river, which passes through the city. To manage and control the flow of excess water more efficiently, the new barrage will be constructed downstream of the reservoir. It is expected to slow down water discharge, thereby reducing the risk of flooding in urban areas. Since Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC), which oversees the reservoir, lacks experience in such construction, the irrigation department has taken charge of the project due to its technical expertise. According to sources, the pre-qualification bids are under review. Once the eligible agencies are shortlisted, financial bids will be invited, and the contract will be awarded to the lowest bidder. An official associated with the project said the estimated cost of construction is Rs 100 crore, based on the department's schedule of rates. The selected contractor will be given 18 months to complete the work. The official added that construction is likely to commence after the monsoon. "This project is part of the city's long-term flood mitigation strategy and was not among the immediate measures," the official said.
Indian Express
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Inside the Laxmi Vilas Palace of Gujarat, four times the size of Buckingham Palace
India is home to some of the most majestic palaces in the world, but did you know that Laxmi Vilas Palace in Gujarat is four times the size of England's Buckingham Palace? More than just a royal residence, this architectural marvel stands as a symbol of history, culture, and grandeur. 'Gujarat's Laxmi Vilas Palace wasn't ruled by Gujaratis but by the Marathas. This grand residential building remains one of the most majestic in the world,' says Prateik Babbar in a series on palaces he hosted for Curly Tales. Still inhabited by the Gaekwad royal family, the palace continues to exude its regal charm, blending the past with the present. Renowned fashion influencer Komal Pandey took the viewers inside the palace. With 550 acres of grandeur, the palace is nothing short of spectacular: 'Now I know what they mean when they say it's four times the size of Buckingham Palace!,' Pandey exclaims. Despite its fairy tale setting, this palace is still a living home. The lady of the palace, Radhikaraje Gaekwad, says she is still uncovering the palace's hidden corners. 'I'm still discovering many parts of the palace. Of course, I know most of it, but there are still nooks and corners that escape me, even after all these years,' she says in the video. The palace was built in 1878 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and named after his wife, Maharani Laxmibai, whom he married in 1880. 'Maharani Jamnabai was searching for an heir. When a young boy boldly declared, 'I want to rule Baroda,' she adopted him as her son. He later became Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III,' according to the video. The palace is an exquisite blend of Indian and European influences. Sandstone from Agra, Carrara marble, and intricate carvings by local Gujarati craftsmen—the palace is an architectural masterpiece. The palace also features Raj Abhishek Hall, where the kings were crowned, marking the beginning of their reigns. The Pratap Shastra wing showcases a remarkable collection of royal weapons, including: The Gaekwad family has a rich culinary heritage, blending flavours from Gujarati, Maratha, and Peshwa traditions. 'Gujarati food is a big part of our diet—we love Kathiawadi dal, undhiyu, and dal dhoklo,' Gaekwad says. She has also established Gazra Café at the palace, an inclusive café run by the LGBTQ+ community. 'The food is amazing—I think I can indulge now and burn off the calories later!' The palace hosts one of the world's largest Garba celebrations, attracting over 40,000 people every Navratri. As the dhol beats fill the air, dancers move in rhythmic circles, barefoot on the earth, staying close to their roots, both literally and spiritually. Laxmi Vilas Palace is where history, culture, and modernity come together.
