Viral video of women offering namaz inside Pune’s Shaniwarwada sparks protests.
BJP MP Medha Kulkarni leads “purification” ritual with Hindu outfits.
Police file FIR against unidentified women after ASI complaint.
Pune, 20 October 2025: A viral video showing a group of women offering namaz inside the historic Shaniwarwada complex triggered outrage on Sunday, leading to protests and a symbolic “purification” ritual carried out by Hindu organisations. The incident prompted the Vishrambaug Police to register a case against unidentified women after a complaint from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), which manages the monument.
The controversy began when the video surfaced on social media, drawing sharp reactions from several Hindu groups. Members of Patit Pavan Sanghatna and other outfits gathered at Shaniwarwada, demanding action against those involved. BJP’s Rajya Sabha MP Medha Kulkarni led the demonstration, performing a “purification” of the site by cleaning the area with cow urine (gaumutra) and reciting Shiv Vandana.
Speaking at the protest, Kulkarni said that offering prayers at such a heritage site was an insult to Maratha pride. “Shaniwarwada is not just a monument, it’s a symbol of our history and victory. Acts like these hurt Hindu sentiments, and we cannot allow them to happen,” she said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Krishikesh Rawale confirmed that the video was recorded within the past few days. “Shaniwarwada is a protected monument under the ASI. Once the official complaint was received, a case was registered against unknown women,” he stated.
Political reactions soon followed, with the Ajit Pawar-led NCP, Congress, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) condemning Kulkarni’s actions, accusing her of trying to create religious divisions ahead of the upcoming civic elections.
Built in 1732, Shaniwarwada remains one of Pune’s most significant Maratha-era landmarks. Following the incident, police have tightened security around the site to prevent further unrest.