European Tourists At Sinhagad Fort British Era Poona, 1880 Photo
An 1880 photo of European tourists at Sinhagad Fort during the British era in Poona. European tourists descend from the fort in dandies (palkhi). A European man and a lady are seen being carried in dandies. The entrance is probably to the Sinhagad Fort, located 35 km from Poona (Pune).
This photo is likely to be the earliest view of the Fort. Some dwellings can also be seen on the right. Although there is no clear record the Fort was believed to have been built around 2000 years ago. Shivaji captured the fortress from the Mughals following a hard-fought battle, he then renamed it Sinhagad, meaning lion.
The Dandies or palkhis were a common mode of transport as early as the mid-20th century in the plains and hilly areas. Journeying to the hilly destination was not an easy task at the time. Horse and bullock carts were of limited use, motor cars did not make an appearance for quite some time. Thus the dandies came in handy for the ascent or descent from the hills, the men who ported the dandies were of hardy stock and adept at their job.
Also see Sedan chair.
Did you know- the palanquin is among the oldest inventions for mobility, it possibly predates before the taming of horses, originating in the Neolithic era.
From the collection- Raja Ravi Varma’s “Birth of Shakuntala” Oleograph c1894., Nawab Of Bhopal’s Hunting Bentley – Old Photograph 1926 (#2)., Vintage Postcard The Gaekwad’s Bungalow Bombay., View of Poona or Pune – Old Print 1855., Vintage 1924 Map Of Bombay City.
