Bhide Wada: Know Historical Significance Of India's 1st Girls School

The Pune Municipal Corporation  (PMC) has recently undertaken the demolition of the historic Bhide Wada, a structure resonating with the echoes of social reform. This dilapidated edifice is a historical site where Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule pioneered the establishment of India's first school for girls in 1848. Following a month of court orders, the PMC acted swiftly, paving the way for a national memorial dedicated to this illustrious couple.

Bhide Wada, nestled in the heart of the Budhwar Peth area of Pune, holds historical significance as the birthplace of educational empowerment. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule, trailblazers in social reform, boldly inaugurated the first school for girls within its walls. This visionary act, dating back to 1848, challenged societal norms and marked the beginning of a transformative journey in the education landscape.

Legal Hurdles and Resolutions

Despite the noble intentions of the PMC, residents and traders had staunchly resisted vacating the premises, leading to a legal impasse. The Bombay High Court and the Supreme Court, recognizing the historical importance of Bhide Wada, recently cleared the path for its demolition and the subsequent construction of a national memorial. This resolution ensures that the legacy of Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule remains etched in Indian history.

The Demolition

Under the cover of the night, the PMC executed the demolition of Bhide Wada, a structure that had stood witness to centuries of change. The move, though met with resistance, was a necessary step to pave the way for the envisioned national memorial. The Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sandip Singh Gill, highlighted the need for police deployment, underscoring the challenges faced by the PMC in gaining possession of the property.

Future Prospects

National Memorial Project

With the dilapidated structure now razed, the PMC is poised to embark on the next phase—the construction of a national memorial dedicated to Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule. This undertaking not only pays homage to the pioneers of education but also serves as proof of the progressive ideals they championed.

Community Engagement

The success of this project hinges on effective community engagement. The PMC must foster collaboration with residents, acknowledging their sentiments and involving them in the preservation of heritage. A transparent communication strategy will be instrumental in garnering support for this significant initiative.

The demolition of Bhide Wada marks a crucial step in the realization of the national memorial dedicated to Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule. As the PMC progresses with the project, it not only pays homage to the historical significance of the site but also reaffirms its dedication to honouring the enduring legacy of two visionaries who played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of education and social reform in India.