Vandalism at Zafar Mahal in Delhi’s Mehrauli village has sparked widespread condemnation, with a section of the jali or railing in front of the tombs of three Mughal emperors found damaged. Renowned historian William Dalrymple criticized the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for “appalling negligence”
Appalling- and appalling negligence by the ASI pic.twitter.com/SuG7f12FRr
— William Dalrymple (@DalrympleWill) December 10, 2023
Journalist Sunit Arora confirmed the incident, reporting that vandals had destroyed part of the jali eight days ago, including damage to Bahadur Shah Zafar’s empty tomb (source). Zafar Mahal, initially known as Lal Mahal and Rang Mahal, holds historical significance, being built by Akbar Shah II in the 18th century. Despite the ASI’s promise to restore Zafar Mahal in October, no action has been taken, prompting calls for accountability.
This is an ASI-protected monument.
— Sunit Arora (@sunitarora) December 10, 2023
Adjacent to Moti Masjid are the graves of the Mughal royal family. According to monumentsofdelhi.com, two predecessors of Bahadur Shah Zafar — his father Akbar Shah II and grandfather Shah Alam II — are buried there. Besides, one of Bahadur Shah Zafar’s sons is also said to be buried there.
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