Pune – A controversy has erupted after a video circulated showing a group of Muslim women offering Namaz at the historic Shaniwarwada Fort in Pune, Maharashtra. Following the video's emergence, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Rajya Sabha MP Medha Kulkarni led a demonstration and "purification" ritual at the fort.

The Shaniwarwada Fort, built in 1732, served as the seat of the Peshwas of the Maratha Empire until 1818 and is currently managed and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The video sparked condemnation from right-wing and Hindutva organizations, including the Sakal Hindu Samaj and Patit Pavan Sanghatana.

On Sunday, October 19, 2025, Kulkarni, along with supporters, performed "Shiv Vandana" and cleaned the area where the Namaz was offered with "gaumutra" (cow urine). Kulkarni had previously posted on X, "We will not allow 'namaz' in Shaniwarwada, the Hindu community has now become awakened".

Kulkarni defended her actions, stating that Shaniwarwada is a historical monument and a symbol of Hindavi Swaraj established by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and therefore, নামাজ should not be allowed. She stated, "It is not a mosque," and suggested that if নামাজ is permitted, Hindus should also be allowed to perform "aarti" in mosques or at the Taj Mahal. She also referred to what she termed an "illegal religious structure" outside the fort.

The opposition parties, including the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Congress, and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), have strongly criticized Kulkarni's actions, viewing it as an attempt to polarize voters before upcoming local civic elections. Sachin Sawant, a spokesperson for the Maharashtra Congress, questioned Kulkarni's protest against the dargah outside Shaniwarwada, asking, "When the Peshwas had no problem, what is her problem?". He also reminded that "even Mastani had stayed in Shaniwarwada".

Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Asim Azmi also criticized Kulkarni's actions, stating that she should fear Allah for insulting someone's worship.

Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane defended the Hindu organizations' protests, questioning whether Hindus chanting Hanuman Chalisa at Muslim religious sites would be acceptable.

Following the incident, an FIR was registered at Vishrambaug police station against the women who offered নামাজ, based on a complaint lodged by Archaeological Department officials. Police have increased security around the fort, especially near a grave site, to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain peace. Authorities have urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation on social media.