Mehrauli is one of the popular places in Delhi and is a
must visit for anyone coming to Delhi. Mehrauli used to be the seat of power in
Delhi, before being taken over by Red Fort. Iconic Qutb Minar in Mehrauli along
with number of monuments, often defines the essence of Delhi heritage.
Mehrauli
Archaeological Park with number of historical structures, rightly make Mehrauli
a historical neighbourhood in South Delhi. Most of the monuments are seated in
dedicated perimeter and can be comfortably visited, however some are situated
in middle of densely populated areas. One such monument, located in a densely
populated pocket is Jahaaz Mahal or Ship Palace. It was built in the year 1230
A.D and is a beautiful structure of grey and red stones, and provides a beautiful panoramic frame for your clicks -
Jahaaz Mahal is located next
to a water reservoir, Hauz-i-Shamsi. When the adjacent reservoir is filled with water, the reflection of the
monument appears like a Ship floating in water. That is how the name Jahaaz
Mahal. There was no water in the adjacent reservoirs at time of our visit, so to check the authenticity of claims of forming a ship like image we tried to view the monument from different angles and from one side we got this image which is more or less looking like a floating ship - The design is not merely decorative but probably was intended to enhance
the aesthetic appeal of the structure and the area as Mehrauli was the seat of
Power and entrance to Delhi in those times.
Jahaaz Mahal was
constructed by Shamsuddin Iltutmish and stands out
among the monuments in Mehrauli Archaeological Park due to its distinct design.
The structure includes number of living rooms and a large central courtyard
facility, probably used by the royals for enjoying solitude moments. Surrounded by water channels, the palace presents a majestic sight
that has captivated visitors throughout periods of history".
With passage of time, it is natural for structures to lose the lustre. Despite ravages of weather Jahaz Mahal has managed
to retain much of its charm and grandeur to still attract curious explorers of
Delhi history. Not only by design, Jahaaz Mahal is also a showcase of rich
cultural heritage of Delhi, and it is the venue of annual festival of Phool
Walon Ki Sair.
Visiting Jahaz Mahal offers
a glimpse into the opulence of medieval Delhi and for an offbeat traveler,
Jahaz Mahal is a must-see destination that encapsulates the essence of Delhi’s
storied past. Not sure but such a monument may have been an idea behind the much illustrious Jahaaz Mahal in Mandu, which is one of the epitomes in Afghan
architecture and was constructed after this monument in Delhi.
For a pleasant experience,
it is advisable to approach Jahaaz Mahal through Kalka Das Marg from Bhool
Bhulaiya side or from Qutab Minar-Chhatarpur main road. It can also be accessed
through Mehrauli Archaeological Park, however narrow and uninviting, dingy
lanes may dampen your spirits to reach the spot.
Keep exploring Folks...
