Pune, Oct 21 (ANI): Pune illuminated the famed historic monument, Shaniwar Wada palace built in 1746, the seat of Peshwa rule, with 51,000 oil lamps to mark the beginning of festivities ahead of festival of lights, Diwali. The tradition dates back to the time of Maratha Empire and was stopped by the British during pre-independence period. Shaniwar Wada is a historic monument. Pune's Diwali festival starts from here. This tradition has been in practice since last 14 years but was stopped in 1818 by the British. A laughing club Chaitanya Hasya Yog Mandal (CHYM) in the year 2000 resumed this tradition. This lighting up of these numerous lamps marks the beginning of festivities of Diwali in Pune city. Director of Chaitanya Hasya Club Arun Pathak, said residents of Pune start the festivities with this lighting event of 'Deep Utsav' every year.
