Introduction: Discover the Historic Grandeur of Shaniwar Wada
Located in the heart of Pune, Maharashtra, Shaniwar Wada is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in India. This magnificent fortification was once the grand residence of the Peshwas, the powerful leaders who played a significant role in the expansion and administration of the Maratha Empire during the eighteenth century.
Today, the monument attracts history enthusiasts, tourists, architecture lovers, photographers, and travellers who want to explore Pune’s rich cultural heritage. Its enormous gateways, fortified walls, historic foundations, and atmospheric courtyards offer a glimpse into an era when Pune emerged as an important political and cultural centre.
However, Shaniwar Wada is more than just an old palace. Its history is filled with ambition, military achievements, royal relationships, political conspiracies, devastating fires, and stories that have survived through generations.
Although much of the original palace was destroyed by fire in 1828, the surviving remains continue to tell the story of the Peshwas and their influence on Maharashtra’s history.
Whether you are planning a visit to Pune or simply want to understand the city’s historical roots, Shaniwar Wada is a destination worth exploring.
1. What Is Shaniwar Wada?
Shaniwar Wada is a historic fortified palace situated in central Pune, Maharashtra. It was constructed under the leadership of Peshwa Bajirao I and served as the principal residence and administrative centre of the Peshwa family.
The name has a straightforward origin. In Marathi, Shaniwar means Saturday, while Wada refers to a traditional mansion or residential complex. The name is associated with the laying of the palace’s foundation stone on a Saturday in January 1730.
Construction began in 1730 and the main palace complex was completed around 1732. Over the following decades, the complex developed into a prominent symbol of Peshwa authority.
Shaniwar Wada was designed not simply as a royal residence but also as a place where important administrative matters could be discussed, visitors received, and political decisions made.
Its strategic location in Pune made it central to the Peshwas’ administration and their growing influence across large parts of the Indian subcontinent.
Today, the monument is protected as a site of national importance under the Archaeological Survey of India. Although the original wooden palace no longer survives, the impressive fortification walls, gateways, and structural remains continue to preserve its historical significance.
2. The History of Shaniwar Wada
To understand the importance of Shaniwar Wada, it is essential to explore the rise of the Peshwas and the transformation of Pune into a major political centre.
The Rise of the Peshwas
The Peshwas originally served as chief ministers in the Maratha administration. Over time, their political and military influence expanded considerably, particularly during the eighteenth century.
Balaji Vishwanath Bhat played an important role in strengthening the position of the Peshwas. His son, Bajirao I, succeeded him in 1720 and became one of the most influential military leaders in Maratha history.
Known for his military campaigns and strategic abilities, Bajirao I helped extend Maratha influence into regions such as Malwa, Gujarat, and Bundelkhand.
As Pune became increasingly important to the administration, Bajirao I chose to establish a grand residence there. This decision led to the construction of Shaniwar Wada.
Construction of the Palace
The foundation of Shaniwar Wada was laid on 10 January 1730, a Saturday. The construction was completed around 1732, creating a fortified palace complex that became closely associated with the Peshwa family.
Historical accounts describe the palace as an elaborate structure featuring residential halls, administrative spaces, courtyards, gardens, and decorative elements.
The original complex reportedly included magnificent halls, ornamental fountains, wooden balconies, and richly decorated interiors.
As successive generations of Peshwas lived there, the palace expanded to meet the needs of the growing household and administration.
Shaniwar Wada gradually became a symbol of political authority, royal life, and the cultural development of Pune.
Shaniwar Wada as the Centre of Peshwa Power
During the eighteenth century, Shaniwar Wada became one of the most important centres of Maratha political activity.
The Peshwas used the palace to conduct administrative work, receive dignitaries, coordinate military affairs, and manage relationships with other regional powers.
It was also the setting for important family occasions, court ceremonies, celebrations, and cultural activities.
The palace reflected the growing status of Pune. As the city developed around the Peshwa administration, markets, temples, residential neighbourhoods, and other important buildings contributed to its growing prominence.
The history of Shaniwar Wada is therefore closely connected with the transformation of Pune from a regional settlement into a major centre of Maratha power.
The Decline of Peshwa Rule
The influence of the Peshwas gradually weakened as political rivalries and conflicts with the British East India Company intensified.
The Third Anglo-Maratha War, fought between 1817 and 1818, ended in the defeat of the Peshwas and the collapse of their political authority.
After the British took control of Pune, Shaniwar Wada lost its position as the principal seat of Peshwa power.
The palace continued to exist for some time, but its role changed significantly. The devastating fire of 1828 destroyed much of the remaining palace structure, leaving behind the fortified walls and other surviving architectural features.
These remains now stand as reminders of the rise, influence, and decline of one of the most important political families in Maratha history.
3. Shaniwar Wada Architecture: A Blend of Strength and Elegance
One of the most fascinating aspects of Shaniwar Wada is its architectural design.
Unlike a conventional stone fort, the complex combined strong defensive walls with an elaborate palace built largely using timber and other materials. This combination reflected both the security requirements and the aesthetic preferences of the Peshwa court.
The architecture incorporated Maratha building traditions alongside influences found in other Indian architectural styles.
Massive Fortification Walls
The surviving outer walls are among the most prominent features of Shaniwar Wada.
Built to protect the palace and its occupants, these walls surround the historic complex and include defensive features designed to strengthen security.
The massive scale of the fortifications conveys the importance attached to protecting the Peshwa residence.
Walking beside these walls gives visitors a sense of the scale and defensive character of the original palace.
Five Historic Gateways
Shaniwar Wada is particularly famous for its five principal gateways. Each gate served a specific function and has its own historical identity.
1. Dilli Darwaza (Delhi Gate)
The Dilli Darwaza is the principal entrance and the most impressive gateway of the complex. Its name is associated with Delhi and Bajirao I’s wider political and military ambitions.
The gate features a massive wooden door reinforced with metal spikes. These spikes helped protect the entrance against attacks involving elephants, which could otherwise be used to break through large gates.
The size and strength of the Dilli Darwaza reflect the defensive importance of Shaniwar Wada.
2. Mastani Darwaza
Mastani Darwaza is traditionally associated with Mastani, the celebrated companion of Peshwa Bajirao I.
Stories surrounding Bajirao and Mastani have become an important part of popular narratives about the Peshwa period. Their relationship continues to attract interest among historians, readers, and cinema audiences.
The gate’s association with Mastani adds another layer of cultural significance to the monument.
3. Ganesh Darwaza
The Ganesh Darwaza is another historic entrance associated with the palace’s access routes and religious-cultural landscape.
It is commonly linked to the presence of the Ganesh Mahal and the importance of Lord Ganesha in the traditions of the Peshwa household.
4. Khidki Darwaza
Khidki Darwaza is generally understood as the smaller or window gate. It forms part of the complex’s system of entrances and reflects the importance of controlling movement into and out of the fortified palace.
5. Narayan Darwaza
Narayan Darwaza is another important gateway associated with the palace’s historical layout. It is sometimes referred to as Jambhul Darwaza in accounts of the site’s entrances.
Together, these gateways demonstrate how Shaniwar Wada combined ceremonial access with the practical requirements of a fortified royal residence.
The Palace Courtyards and Gardens
The original Shaniwar Wada featured internal courtyards, gardens, and open spaces that supported everyday palace life.
These areas would have provided space for household activities, gatherings, celebrations, and movement between different sections of the complex.
The gardens and fountains also contributed to the palace’s visual appeal.
Although the original landscaping and interiors have largely disappeared, the surviving grounds allow visitors to imagine how the palace might have looked during its most prosperous period.
The Famous Hazari Karanje
One of the most celebrated features associated with Shaniwar Wada is the Hazari Karanje, often described as a fountain with a thousand jets.
This elaborate water feature is remembered as an example of the decorative sophistication of the Peshwa palace.
Its design reflected the importance of gardens and ornamental water features in royal residential architecture.
The remains and historical accounts associated with the fountain help illustrate how the palace balanced defensive strength with comfort and elegance.
4. The Important Halls of Shaniwar Wada
Historical descriptions of Shaniwar Wada mention several halls and palace spaces that served different purposes.
Although many of these structures were destroyed, their names continue to appear in accounts of the palace’s former grandeur.
Ganesh Mahal
The Ganesh Mahal is associated with the palace’s religious and ceremonial life. It is remembered as one of the important spaces within the royal complex.
The presence of religiously significant areas reflects the role of worship, festivals, and household traditions in the lives of the Peshwas.
Rang Mahal
The Rang Mahal is traditionally associated with decorated interiors and the cultural life of the palace.
The name suggests a space connected with colour, ornamentation, and courtly activities. Like other parts of the original complex, it is known primarily through historical descriptions and surviving evidence rather than through a fully preserved interior.
Aarsa Mahal
Aarsa Mahal, or Mirror Hall, is remembered for its association with decorative interiors and mirrors.
Such spaces were characteristic of the emphasis on visual splendour and craftsmanship found in elite residences of the period.
Diwankhana
The Diwankhana was associated with formal gatherings and administrative or ceremonial activities.
Spaces of this kind were essential to the functioning of a powerful household whose responsibilities extended beyond domestic life into governance and diplomacy.
These halls demonstrate that Shaniwar Wada was not merely a large house. It was a complex environment where administration, culture, religion, and royal life came together.
5. Bajirao I and the Legacy of Shaniwar Wada
Peshwa Bajirao I is one of the central figures in the history of Shaniwar Wada.
Born in 1700, Bajirao I became Peshwa in 1720 and developed a reputation as an ambitious and highly capable military commander.
His campaigns expanded Maratha influence across significant parts of India, and his leadership helped establish Pune as a major centre of power.
Shaniwar Wada represented this growing influence. It became the principal residence of Bajirao I and the institutional heart of the Peshwa administration.
His decision to build the palace reflected the changing importance of Pune and the growing authority of the Peshwa family.
Bajirao I died in 1740, but the palace continued to be occupied by successive generations of Peshwas.
His legacy remains closely associated with the monument, and an equestrian statue of Bajirao I stands outside the complex as a tribute to his historical significance.
For visitors interested in Maratha history, Shaniwar Wada offers an opportunity to understand the political ambitions and administrative world of Bajirao I beyond the battlefield.
6. The Story of Bajirao and Mastani
One of the most widely discussed stories connected with Shaniwar Wada is the relationship between Peshwa Bajirao I and Mastani.
Mastani is commonly described as a princess associated with Bundelkhand. She became known through her relationship with Bajirao I, and their story has remained a subject of historical debate, literature, and popular culture.
Their relationship unfolded within a political and social environment shaped by family expectations, court politics, and the customs of the period.
Mastani’s association with Shaniwar Wada has contributed to the palace’s enduring public fascination.
The story gained renewed attention through novels, plays, television productions, and films that explored their relationship, often combining documented history with dramatic interpretation.
However, it is important to distinguish historical evidence from cinematic portrayals. Popular adaptations may simplify events, invent dialogue, or emphasise particular aspects of the relationship for dramatic effect.
For visitors, the connection between Bajirao, Mastani, and Shaniwar Wada provides a starting point for exploring the social and political complexities of eighteenth-century Maratha society.
7. The Tragic Story of Peshwa Narayanrao
Among the most dramatic episodes associated with Shaniwar Wada is the murder of the young Peshwa Narayanrao in 1773.
Narayanrao became Peshwa in 1772 after the death of his elder brother, Madhavrao I.
His period in power was short and politically turbulent. Tensions within the ruling family and struggles over authority created an atmosphere of suspicion and rivalry.
In August 1773, Narayanrao was murdered within Shaniwar Wada during a conspiracy involving members of the political establishment.
His uncle Raghunathrao became Peshwa afterward, although his position was contested and the events contributed to wider political instability.
The incident became one of the most tragic episodes in the history of the palace.
The Famous Cry for Help
A popular legend associated with Narayanrao’s death recounts that he cried out for help from his uncle, traditionally remembered through the Marathi phrase, “Kaka, mala vachva!” meaning “Uncle, save me!”
The story has become deeply embedded in Pune’s folklore.
Different versions of the narrative describe how an order was allegedly altered or misinterpreted, contributing to the conspiracy against the young Peshwa. The exact details of these accounts should be approached carefully because popular retellings do not always distinguish established evidence from later legend.
The tragic story has also contributed to the belief that Shaniwar Wada is haunted.
Some people claim that Narayanrao’s cries can be heard on certain nights, particularly during the full moon. These stories remain part of local folklore rather than scientifically verified events.
For many visitors, the combination of documented political history and ghost stories adds an intriguing dimension to the monument.
8. The Devastating Fire of 1828
The fire that destroyed much of Shaniwar Wada in 1828 was a turning point in the monument’s history.
The palace had already lost its political importance following the defeat of the Peshwas in 1818. Under British rule, its original function as a royal residence had come to an end.
The devastating fire destroyed much of the palace’s interior, including substantial timber structures and decorative features.
Because so much of the original building relied on wood, the fire caused extensive damage.
The exact sequence of events surrounding the destruction has been described differently in various historical accounts, but 1828 is widely recognised as the year of the major fire.
The loss was enormous from an architectural and cultural perspective. Rooms, wooden structures, and decorative interiors that had once represented the grandeur of the Peshwa court disappeared.
What remains today includes the defensive walls, gateways, foundations, and other surviving features.
Rather than diminishing its significance, the destruction has made Shaniwar Wada an especially powerful historical site. The ruins remind visitors that political power, wealth, and architectural splendour can be lost, while the memory of a place continues across generations.
9. Why Is Shaniwar Wada Considered Haunted?
Shaniwar Wada is frequently described as one of India’s haunted historical sites.
The reputation is largely connected to the tragic death of Narayanrao Peshwa and the legends that developed around the incident.
According to popular accounts, visitors and storytellers associate the palace with mysterious sounds, unusual experiences, and the alleged cries of the young Peshwa.
These tales have spread through local folklore, paranormal discussions, online videos, and travel stories.
The atmosphere of the monument can also contribute to its mysterious reputation. Old stone walls, darkened corners, ruined foundations, and the knowledge of past tragedies naturally encourage the imagination.
However, there is no reliable scientific evidence establishing that Shaniwar Wada is haunted. Stories about paranormal activity should be understood as legends and cultural narratives rather than verified facts.
The historical significance of the monument does not depend on supernatural claims. Its documented connections with the Peshwas, the Maratha Empire, and the political history of Pune are compelling enough to make it worth visiting.
For travellers, the best approach is to enjoy the folklore while remaining curious about the historical events that inspired it.
10. Shaniwar Wada’s Role in Pune’s Cultural Identity
Shaniwar Wada occupies a special place in Pune’s cultural identity.
Pune is widely associated with education, literature, arts, social reform, and Maharashtra’s political history. The legacy of the Peshwas forms an important part of this identity, and Shaniwar Wada serves as one of its most visible historical reminders.
The monument also appears in books, films, historical discussions, heritage walks, and cultural events.
Its imposing gateways have become recognisable symbols of old Pune, while its association with Bajirao I and Mastani continues to attract people interested in historical romance and royal life.
For local residents, Shaniwar Wada is not simply a tourist attraction. It represents the city’s long historical journey and the layers of culture that have shaped it.
The monument also offers an opportunity to discuss the broader history of Maharashtra, including the development of the Maratha state, the role of the Peshwas, the impact of colonial rule, and the importance of heritage conservation.
Preserving such places allows future generations to engage with history through physical spaces rather than relying exclusively on books and photographs.
11. Visiting Shaniwar Wada: A Practical Travel Guide
If you are planning to explore Pune, Shaniwar Wada is an excellent destination for a historical outing.
Location
Shaniwar Wada is located in the old city area of Pune, Maharashtra, close to several important cultural and religious landmarks.
Its central location makes it relatively convenient to include in a wider sightseeing itinerary.
How to Reach Shaniwar Wada
By road: Pune has extensive road connectivity. Visitors can reach the monument by taxi, auto-rickshaw, private vehicle, or local bus. Traffic can be heavy around the old city, especially during busy hours and festivals.
By train: Pune Junction is the city’s principal railway station. From there, visitors can continue by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local transport.
By air: Pune Airport serves domestic and selected international connections. Visitors arriving by air can travel onward by taxi or other available transport.
Best Time to Visit
The cooler months from October to March are generally comfortable for exploring Pune’s outdoor heritage sites.
Morning visits can offer a more relaxed experience, while late afternoon may provide attractive lighting for photography, depending on the season and visitor access arrangements.
The monsoon season also brings greenery to Pune, although rain may affect walking conditions.
How Much Time Should You Spend?
Allow approximately one to two hours to explore the main grounds, admire the gateways, read the historical information, and take photographs.
Visitors who enjoy detailed historical interpretation or combine the visit with nearby attractions may wish to spend longer in the area.
Entry Fees and Timings
Entry fees, opening hours, show schedules, and visitor rules can change. Check the latest information from the Archaeological Survey of India or official tourism sources before travelling.
Do not rely on outdated travel blogs for exact ticket prices or timings, particularly if you are visiting on a public holiday or during a special event.
Photography Tips
Shaniwar Wada offers several interesting photography opportunities.
- Photograph the Dilli Darwaza to capture the scale of the main entrance.
- Use the surviving walls to create dramatic architectural compositions.
- Photograph the grounds and foundations to document the palace’s remaining structure.
- Visit in suitable daylight for clearer architectural details.
- Follow site rules regarding restricted areas, equipment, and photography.
The monument is especially appealing to people interested in heritage photography, architecture, and historical travel content.
12. Places to Visit Near Shaniwar Wada
One advantage of visiting Shaniwar Wada is that several other attractions are located nearby.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple
The famous Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple is one of Pune’s best-known religious landmarks.
Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, it attracts devotees throughout the year and is particularly popular during Ganeshotsav.
Its decorated surroundings and strong connection with Pune’s religious culture make it a natural addition to a heritage itinerary.
Lal Mahal
Lal Mahal is a reconstructed historical landmark associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his early life in Pune.
It offers an opportunity to explore a different chapter of Maratha history and understand the city’s significance before the rise of the Peshwas.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum
This museum houses a large collection of objects associated with Indian art, craftsmanship, and everyday life.
Visitors interested in traditional instruments, decorative objects, textiles, and historical artefacts may find it a rewarding stop.
Vishrambaug Wada
Vishrambaug Wada is another important historic mansion in Pune.
Known for its traditional architectural features and decorative wooden elements, it provides a useful comparison with the palace architecture associated with the Peshwa period.
Exploring these nearby attractions can turn a short visit to Shaniwar Wada into a broader journey through Pune’s historical landscape.
13. The Importance of Preserving Shaniwar Wada
Historical monuments face numerous challenges, including weathering, pollution, heavy visitor traffic, structural deterioration, and the gradual loss of historical knowledge.
Shaniwar Wada is particularly valuable because much of its original palace structure has already disappeared.
Conservation efforts are therefore essential to protect the surviving walls, gateways, foundations, and other architectural features.
Responsible tourism also plays an important role. Visitors can help protect the monument by avoiding littering, respecting restricted areas, following official instructions, and refraining from damaging historic surfaces.
Educational programmes, heritage walks, interpretation boards, and reliable historical publications can help people understand why the monument deserves protection.
Digital resources and photographs also make the history of Shaniwar Wada accessible to people who cannot visit Pune in person.
Preservation is not simply about maintaining old walls. It is about protecting the evidence of historical events, architectural traditions, and cultural memories that help communities understand their past.
By supporting responsible tourism and heritage education, visitors contribute to the continued appreciation of one of Maharashtra’s most recognisable historical sites.
14. Interesting Facts About Shaniwar Wada
Here are some interesting facts about Shaniwar Wada that make the monument especially fascinating:
- Its name is linked to Saturday: The name Shaniwar Wada is associated with the day on which its foundation stone was laid.
- It was built under Bajirao I: Construction began in 1730 and the main palace was completed around 1732.
- It served as the Peshwas’ residence: The complex became the principal residence and an important administrative centre of the Peshwa family.
- It had five principal gateways: These include Dilli Darwaza, Mastani Darwaza, Ganesh Darwaza, Khidki Darwaza, and Narayan Darwaza.
- Its architecture combined security and beauty: Strong defensive walls surrounded a palace that also featured decorated halls, courtyards, gardens, and fountains.
- The palace was largely destroyed by fire: The major fire of 1828 destroyed much of the original structure.
- Its ruins are connected with famous legends: The story of Narayanrao Peshwa’s death is central to local folklore about the monument.
- It remains a major Pune landmark: Shaniwar Wada continues to attract visitors interested in history, architecture, and the Maratha period.
- It is a protected monument: The site is recognised as a monument of national importance and is subject to conservation efforts.
- It represents an important chapter in Maharashtra’s history: Its story reflects the rise of the Peshwas, the growth of Pune, and the changes brought by British rule.
15. Frequently Asked Questions About Shaniwar Wada
1. Where is Shaniwar Wada located?
Shaniwar Wada is located in central Pune, Maharashtra, India. It is situated in the historic old city area and is accessible by road and local transport.
2. Who built Shaniwar Wada?
Shaniwar Wada was built under the leadership of Peshwa Bajirao I, one of the most influential military and political figures of the Maratha period.
3. When was Shaniwar Wada built?
Construction began in January 1730, and the main palace complex was completed around 1732.
4. Why is it called Shaniwar Wada?
The name is associated with Saturday, or Shaniwar in Marathi, the day on which the foundation stone was laid. Wada refers to a traditional mansion or residential complex.
5. Why was Shaniwar Wada destroyed?
A major fire in 1828 destroyed much of the palace’s original structure. The fire followed the end of Peshwa rule in 1818 and resulted in the loss of many timber buildings and decorated interiors.
6. Is Shaniwar Wada really haunted?
Shaniwar Wada is associated with ghost stories, especially those connected with the murder of Narayanrao Peshwa in 1773. However, there is no reliable scientific evidence that the monument is haunted.
7. What is the Dilli Darwaza?
The Dilli Darwaza is the main entrance of Shaniwar Wada. It is known for its imposing size, fortified construction, and metal-spiked wooden doors.
8. What is the best time to visit Shaniwar Wada?
October to March is generally comfortable for sightseeing in Pune. Morning or late-afternoon visits can be pleasant, depending on the season and the monument’s opening hours.
9. How long does it take to explore Shaniwar Wada?
Most visitors can spend around one to two hours exploring the main grounds and architectural remains. History enthusiasts may prefer a longer visit.
10. Can Shaniwar Wada be included in a one-day Pune itinerary?
Yes. It can be combined with nearby attractions such as Dagdusheth Halwai Ganpati Temple, Lal Mahal, and Vishrambaug Wada, depending on travel time and opening hours.
11. Is Shaniwar Wada suitable for children?
Yes, it can be an educational family outing. Children can learn about the Maratha Empire, historic architecture, and the importance of preserving monuments. Adults should supervise children around uneven surfaces and restricted areas.
12. Why is Shaniwar Wada important today?
Shaniwar Wada preserves the memory of the Peshwas and their role in Maratha history. It is also an important symbol of Pune’s cultural identity and a valuable site for heritage tourism and historical education.
Conclusion: Shaniwar Wada, a Timeless Symbol of Pune’s Heritage
Shaniwar Wada remains one of the most compelling historical destinations in Pune. Although the magnificent palace that once stood within its walls was largely destroyed by fire, the surviving remains continue to tell a story of political ambition, architectural achievement, family rivalries, and cultural transformation.
From Bajirao I’s rise to power to the tragic story of Narayanrao Peshwa, the monument offers a glimpse into the personalities and events that shaped eighteenth-century Maratha history.
Its massive Dilli Darwaza, fortified walls, remembered palace halls, and famous legends make it much more than a collection of ruins. Each feature connects visitors with a different aspect of Pune’s past.
For travellers, Shaniwar Wada is an essential stop on a Pune sightseeing itinerary. For history enthusiasts, it provides a starting point for exploring the Peshwas and the wider Maratha Empire. For local residents, it remains a powerful reminder of the city’s historical and cultural identity.
Most importantly, Shaniwar Wada demonstrates why preserving historical places matters. Buildings may be damaged, empires may decline, and generations may pass, but the stories attached to these places continue to educate and inspire.
A visit to Shaniwar Wada is therefore not just a sightseeing experience. It is an opportunity to step into the history of Pune and appreciate the legacy of a monument that continues to capture the imagination of people across India.
References and Further Reading
For historical verification and additional information, consult these sources:
- Pune District Administration: Shaniwar Wada
- Incredible India: Shaniwar Wada, Pune
- Maharashtra Tourism: Official Tourism Website
- The Indian Express: Recalling the History of Shaniwar Wada, Home to Bajirao I and Mastani
Editorial note: Historical accounts sometimes differ on details about the palace’s destruction and events associated with its residents. This article distinguishes widely documented history from popular legends wherever possible.