New Delhi | After decades of neglect, the magnificent Sheesh Mahal in Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, has been thoughtfully restored and reopened to the public. Originally built in 1653 during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, this Mughal-era treasure once stood as the centerpiece of Shalimar Bagh, a royal garden designed by Izz-un-Nissa, the emperor’s third wife.
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The reopening ceremony was graced by Lieutenant Governor V. K. Saxena, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, marking a major milestone in the capital’s ongoing heritage conservation efforts.
A Monument of Mughal Garden Architecture
One of the few surviving examples of Mughal garden architecture outside the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb complexes, Sheesh Mahal embodies a rich historical narrative. The palace endured multiple challenges through the centuries—including structural damage during Aurangzeb’s coronation and later British military occupation in 1857.
Despite these trials, the recent restoration has brought renewed life to this architectural jewel, allowing it to reclaim its rightful place as a symbol of Delhi’s vibrant heritage.
Restoration Rooted in Traditional Craftsmanship
The project was spearheaded by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) with technical guidance from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), executed in two detailed phases:
- Phase I (2024): Stabilization and structural strengthening
- Phase II (2025): Restoration of floral ceiling motifs, lime punning using traditional methods, and careful replacement of weathered red sandstone
Key architectural elements—arched gateways, a central hall flanked by three-arched dalans, and Mughal ornamental details—have been meticulously conserved. While the central hall flooring awaits further treatment, restored wall patterns and painted ceilings now vividly reflect the palace’s historical splendor.
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Char Bagh Landscaping & Heritage Reuse
The surrounding gardens have been designed in the classic Char Bagh layout, with sandstone pathways, shaded seating, and ornamental lighting that enhances the experience, especially in the evenings.
The restoration initiative also included other significant elements within the Shalimar Bagh complex:
- A decayed baradari and three heritage cottages were restored using authentic Mughal-era materials such as lakhauri bricks, lime surkhi, gud, belgiri, and urad binders.
- Adaptive reuse of two cottages has brought new functionality to the site:
- Readers’ Café Corner – a peaceful book café fostering literary culture
- Café Shalimar – a welcoming refreshment space for park visitors
- The third cottage has been preserved for official use, maintaining its heritage integrity.
A New Chapter in Heritage Revival
The restoration of Sheesh Mahal at Shalimar Bagh represents more than just structural renewal—it is a celebration of India’s architectural legacy, a testament to conservation through traditional craftsmanship, and a beacon for future community-centered heritage initiatives.
At TheAPN, we proudly spotlight such endeavors that bridge the past with the present and inspire generations to cherish and protect our cultural heritage.