Poona

Poona, officially Pune, is a city in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. The spelling Poona appears in older English-language sources; Pune is the contemporary local spelling. It is one of Maharashtra’s largest cities and a major educational and cultural hub.

Geography: Pune lies about 150 kilometers southeast of Mumbai, on the Mula and Mutha river basin at roughly 560 meters above sea level. The area has a tropical wet and dry climate with hot summers and a monsoon season.

History: In the 18th century, Poona became the capital and political center of the Maratha Empire under the Peshwas. Under British rule it served as the headquarters of the Bombay Presidency and developed as a military and educational center. Historic sites include Shaniwar Wada and nearby forts such as Sinhagad.

Economy and education: Today Pune is a major economic and educational center. It hosts information technology and software services, manufacturing, and automotive industries (notably in nearby Chakan). The city is home to several universities and research institutes, including Savitribai Phule Pune University, and a large network of engineering and management colleges.

Demographics and culture: Marathi is the predominant language; the city also has large communities of Hindi, English, and other language speakers. It has a vibrant arts scene, historical sites, parks, and a mix of traditional and modern culture.

Transport: Pune is connected by road and rail to Mumbai and other cities. Pune International Airport serves domestic flights. The city is developing urban transit, including the Pune Metro project.