India: Thanjavur Maratha Palace, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu
The Thanjavur Maratha Palace Complex, known locally as Aranmanai, was the residence of the Bhonsle family that ruled over the Tanjore region from 1674 to 1855.
The Thanjavur Maratha palace was originally constructed by the rulers of the Thanjavur Nayak kingdom. After the fall of that kingdom, it served as the official residence of the Thanjavur Marathas. When most of the Thanjavur Maratha kingdom was annexed to the British Empire in 1799, the Thanjavur Marathas continued to hold sway over the palace and the surrounding fort. The Bhonsle family continued to hold on to the palace even after the last king Shivaji II was deposed as per the Doctrine of Lapse.
Here we met this very kind old woman, who led us into the upper floors of the gopuram for some spectacular views of the palace grounds and Thanjavur itself. It was a great experience and it really made my day.
Read MoreThe Thanjavur Maratha palace was originally constructed by the rulers of the Thanjavur Nayak kingdom. After the fall of that kingdom, it served as the official residence of the Thanjavur Marathas. When most of the Thanjavur Maratha kingdom was annexed to the British Empire in 1799, the Thanjavur Marathas continued to hold sway over the palace and the surrounding fort. The Bhonsle family continued to hold on to the palace even after the last king Shivaji II was deposed as per the Doctrine of Lapse.
Here we met this very kind old woman, who led us into the upper floors of the gopuram for some spectacular views of the palace grounds and Thanjavur itself. It was a great experience and it really made my day.
