Echoes of heritage

Situated in Delhi, the Qutub Minar is a towering structure reaching 72.5 meters, making it the tallest brick minaret globally. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it reflects the grandeur of Indo-Islamic architecture. 🏛️ Historical Insights Initiated in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak to mark his triumph over Delhi's last Hindu rulers, the minaret's construction saw contributions from his successor, Iltutmish, who added three storeys. Later, Firoz Shah Tughlaq restored and completed the fifth storey after damage from lightning.  🧱 Architectural Highlights The minar showcases a blend of red sandstone and marble across its five storeys, each featuring a balcony with detailed carvings. Its tapering design and Quranic inscriptions exemplify the fusion of Islamic and Indian architectural elements.  🕌 Surrounding Monuments The Qutub Complex houses several notable structures: Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque : India's first mosque post-Islamic conquest. Iron Pillar : An ancient, rust-r...

  Introduction Red Fort is one of India’s most well-known monuments. Situated in Delhi, it reflects the country’s glorious history. Built in the 1600s by the Mughal ruler Shah Jahan, it stands as a reminder of India’s royal past. Origin of the Name The name "Red Fort" comes from the red sandstone used in its construction. Its striking color gives it a grand and majestic appearance. In Hindi, it’s known as "Lal Qila." Its Role in History Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal, started the construction of Red Fort in 1639. It was the Mughal emperors’ main residence. After independence, Prime Minister Nehru addressed the nation from its walls. Since then, it has become a tradition to raise the Indian flag here every 15th August. Its Structure and Art The fort features a mix of Indian, Persian, and Islamic designs. Its massive walls were built for protection. Inside, you’ll find several stunning structures, such as: Diwan-i-Aam – a space for public gatherings Diwan-i-...

 Located in the Qutub Complex in Mehrauli, Delhi, the Iron Pillar is a fascinating ancient structure. Standing for over 1600 years, this pillar is known for one amazing fact – it hasn’t rusted much over time. This shows how advanced India’s engineering was in the old days. The pillar is around 7.2 meters high and weighs more than 6 tons. Experts believe it was built during the reign of King Chandragupta II in the 4th century CE. An inscription in Sanskrit carved on it praises the king and tells a bit about the history of that time. What surprises many people is how the iron has stayed almost rust-free. Usually, iron gets rusty when it faces wind and rain, but this pillar has not. Scientists think that the craftsmen of that time used a smart method to mix the iron with phosphorus and did not use materials like sulfur, which causes rust. This clever process helped protect the pillar for centuries. The Iron Pillar proves that ancient Indian metalworkers had great knowledge of chemistr...

Most people visiting Delhi head straight to the Red Fort or Qutub Minar. But the city hides many ancient and amazing places that are not crowded with tourists. These forgotten sites tell us about rulers, legends, and lost eras. 1. Tughlaqabad Fort – The Doomed Fortress Emperor Ghiyas-ud-din Tughlaq built this massive fort in the 1300s, dreaming of a powerful capital. But a saint, Nizamuddin Auliya, cursed it. He said it would never flourish. Today, the fort lies in ruins, surrounded by wild greenery, giving it a spooky charm. 2. Hauz Khas Ruins – Where Kings and Students Once Walked Alauddin Khilji built a reservoir here, and Feroz Shah Tughlaq later added a school, mosque, and tomb. Now, the area is filled with cafes and art, but the old stone walls still tell tales of royal Delhi. It’s the perfect mix of old and new. 3. Feroz Shah Kotla – Home of the Djinns Built in the 14th century, this fort holds an ancient Ashokan pillar. But it’s more famous for something else — the belief that...

In the crowded streets of Old Delhi lie beautiful old mansions called havelis. Once full of life and charm, many of them now stand in ruins. Yet, their old walls seem to quietly share stories of a time long gone. Walk around Ballimaran, Churi Walan, or Kashmere Gate, and you’ll come across these historical homes. The haveli of Mirza Ghalib, the great Urdu poet, still exists in Ballimaran. Visiting it feels like travelling back in time. These houses were built with great attention to detail. You’ll see big open courtyards, airy rooms, and wooden windows with delicate designs. Some even have hidden doors and traditional balconies known as jharokhas. Every corner had meaning — from the spaces for guests to where women spent their time. Life in these havelis was warm and festive. Families came together, shared meals, enjoyed music, and celebrated traditions. These weren’t just buildings; they were full of emotions, culture, and connection. Sadly, most havelis are now worn down. Some are us...

Delhi’s ancient gates are more than just structures – they are part of its living history. Built centuries ago, they were strong entrances to protect the old city and welcome travelers. Let’s explore a few of these gates and what they have seen. Ajmeri Gate Made in 1644 by Shah Jahan, Ajmeri Gate faced the road to Ajmer, a holy city in Rajasthan. It was one of the main gates of Shahjahanabad. Over time, it saw many battles, especially during the 1857 rebellion. Now close to New Delhi Railway Station, the gate still stands with pride. Lahori Gate This gate leads into the Red Fort and is named because it faced Lahore. Shah Jahan also built it. It was once used by Mughal royals and is still used today during Independence Day celebrations, when the Prime Minister gives a speech from here. It shows the strength and spirit of India. Turkman Gate Turkman Gate is named after a Sufi saint, Hazrat Shah Turkman. Built in the 13th century, it is in the heart of Old Delhi. It has seen peaceful pray...