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The Forgotten...
In the last issue of Gobar Times, we presented to you some of the monuments of Delhi, that lie neglected and forlorn. The Archeological Park (Mehrauli), Khirki Masjid, and Hauz Khas.
Here are some more treasure troves of the city that, like most other heritage sites, lie in oblivion – slowly decaying and dying.
AGRASEN KI BAOLI: Hidden among the skyscrapers of Connaught Place, is the 60-metre long and 15-metre wide stepwell Agrasen Ki Baoli (on Hailey Road). Some of its parts are always immersed in water. The visible parts consist of three levels, lined with arched niches on both sides. Resembling Tughlak period architectures, it was probably constructed by the Agrawal community (tracing back to Maharaja Agrasen).
TUGHLAKABAD FORT: Tughlakabad was
the third town of Delhi, established by Ghiasuddin Tughlak (founder of Tughlak dynasty) between
1321-25. Its first capital was located in Tughlakabad Fort –
an imposing structure, once impenetrable. Now, the ramparts of the fort are in ruins, and inhabited by gypsies. But the tomb
of Ghiasuddin is, fortunately, still intact.
BEGAMPURI MASJID: Built in the Tughlak era, the mosque is situated near the city of Jahanpanah (sometimes referred to as the fourth city of Delhi, and now a part of south Delhi). It measures 307ft by 295ft, and has 64 domes. It was once an important social centre of the capital, and included a madrasa and a treasury. Today, the beautiful mosque lies deserted, and forgotten…
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