10 July,2013 12:55 AM IST | | Swapnal Tilekar
Established on February 10, 1949 and spread across 411 acres, the University of Pune (UoP) is one of the premier educational institutes of the country.
Pune University Main building. Pic/Krunal Gosavi.
The purview of the University of Pune extends to Nashik and Ahmednagar as well. The scenic UoP campus boasts of 46 academic departments and also lends itself to unwinding walks.
Located in the heart of the city, it also offers healthy and economical breakfasts at the various canteens, many of which were set up decades ago (Aniket, Aadarsha and Open canteen are the popular ones). The University has notable alumni including former Prime Ministeru00a0PV Narasimha Rao, Marathi actor Satish Alekar, sociologist and author Sharmila Rege and actress Mukta Barve.
The campus is dotted with tall trees, well-maintained lawns and fountains dating back to the British era. The buildings are also known for their architectural aesthetics. Interestingly, the UoP website mentions how the lofty Main Building of the University of Pune was once the residence of the Governors of Bombay in the days of the British Raj.
It was built in 1864 when Sir Bartle Frere was the Governor. Designed by James Trubshawe, the magnificent edifice was built in Ganeshkhind, on the outskirts of what was then called Poona.
Architecturally, it is similar to Italian structures and the 80-feet flag tower has been described as a âVictorian rendering of an Italian campanile'. The building was inspired by Prince Albert's Osborne House on the Isle of Wight. The University is currently undergoing renovation.
