A recent video depicting three unidentified women offering namaz within the premises of Pune’s iconic Shaniwarwada has gone viral, igniting a wave of protests from BJP MP Medha Kulkarni and various other organizations.
Pune City Police confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against the women. The charges fall under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (AMASR) Rules, 1959, citing a violation of the restrictions applicable to protected national monuments.
The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at approximately 1:45 PM. Following the video’s circulation, an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) official promptly filed a formal complaint with the Pune City Police. The ensuing day, Sunday, October 19, 2025, saw protest demonstrations led by BJP MP Medha Kulkarni and members of a local right-wing group. These groups also performed ‘purification rituals’ at the exact spot where the namaz was offered, prompting increased police security around Shaniwarwada.
“We have invoked the relevant Section of the AMASR Rules, which outlines penalties for prohibited activities within protected monuments,” a police officer stated regarding the legal proceedings.
Adding to the controversy, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane weighed in on the issue. Commenting on both the viral namaz video and the subsequent ‘purification’ by the BJP, Rane emphasized that Shaniwarwada symbolizes Hindu valor and holds deep significance for the community. He challenged whether Muslims would accept Hindus chanting the Hanuman Chalisa at Haji Ali, stressing that prayers should be confined to designated religious sites.
Rane expressed support for the Hindu activists, asserting, “Shaniwarwada has a rich history; it is a symbol of our valor and holds a special place in the Hindu community’s heart. If you wish to offer namaz there, would it be acceptable if Hindus were to chant Hanuman Chalisa at Haji Ali? Would that not offend your sentiments? One should offer prayers only at appropriate places. Therefore, the Hindu workers’ stance on this issue is justified.”
In response, Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant criticized the BJP’s actions on Monday, October 20, 2025. Sawant condemned the BJP’s act of sprinkling cow urine at the historic Pune fort as a protest against the Muslim women, calling it an act that “makes one want to slap his or her forehead in disbelief.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sawant highlighted Shaniwarwada’s diverse history, noting that it even housed Mastani. He recalled historical events, stating, “It was the Peshwa sardars themselves who removed the Chhatrapati’s flag and hoisted the Union Jack. If those women invoke the name of the Almighty at such a place, it starts hurting your stomachs. Has anyone stopped you from sitting there and meditating?” Sawant questioned.
Sawant further pointed out that Shaniwarwada contains Peshwa-era dargahs, which the Peshwas themselves had no objections to. Referencing the assassination of young Peshwa Narayanrao at the site, Sawant remarked that locals still claim to hear cries of “Uncle, save me” emanating from Shaniwarwada.
“So, invoking the Almighty’s name is good. Why don’t you chant ‘Ram Ram’ yourselves?” Sawant challenged. “So much has transpired in that Shaniwarwada that, by your logic, BJP folks, the entire Wada should actually be washed with cow urine. That way, the public will also realize just how regressive your mindset is,” the Congress leader concluded.