Pooona

Pooona is a term most commonly associated with Pune, a major city in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. In current English usage the city is officially spelled Pune; Poona was the historic spelling used during British rule. The form Pooona is rarely used in formal references and is generally treated as a variant of Poona.

Etymology: The origin of the name Pune is uncertain. The Marathi form Pune is standard today, while Anglo-Indian spellings such as Poona appeared in older maps and texts. The city has been transliterated in many ways over time as it entered global writing.

Geography and status: Pune lies on the western edge of the Deccan Plateau, about 150–160 kilometers southeast of Mumbai. It sits near the Western Ghats and has a climate of hot summers and moderate winters. It is one of Maharashtra's largest cities and a leading educational and cultural center.

History: The area has ancient roots and developed as a fort town. In the 18th century it became the capital of the Maratha Empire under the Peshwas. After British rule, Pune grew as a major urban center and later emerged as a hub for technology and education.

Culture and economy: Pune is known for universities, theatres, and historic sites such as Shaniwar Wada. It hosts a large student population, a growing IT and manufacturing sector, and attractions like the Aga Khan Palace. Nearby defense facilities and institutions also figure in the city's profile.