New Delhi— The historic Mughal-era Sheesh Mahal, nestled in Shalimar Bagh in North Delhi, has been beautifully restored and reopened to the public. The unveiling took place on Wednesday, with Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat presiding over the ceremony, alongside Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Saxena and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, reported the Hindu.
Originally constructed in 1653 under the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, Sheesh Mahal and its surrounding gardens had suffered decades of neglect. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), led the restoration initiative. While the ASI focused on reviving the palace’s architectural and heritage features, the DDA reimagined the adjoining Char Bagh landscape in traditional Mughal style to bring back its lost glory.
Shalimar Bagh, once known as Aizzabad Garden, was commissioned by Shah Jahan in memory of Aizzun-Nisha Begum. The name ‘Shalimar’—derived from ‘Shala’ and ‘Mara’, meaning ‘abode of pleasure’—was said to have been personally chosen by the emperor. Historically significant, Sheesh Mahal is also remembered as the venue of Aurangzeb’s first coronation in 1658.
The restoration efforts included the revival of a crumbling baradari (pavilion) and three heritage cottages. Using traditional materials like lime surkhi, lakhauri bricks, and organic binders such as jaggery (gud), belgiri, and urad dal, the DDA ensured the conservation work respected original craftsmanship. Two of the restored cottages have been repurposed—one into “The Readers Café Corner,” a literary-themed space, and the other into “Café Shalimar” for public refreshments.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Saxena appealed to citizens to protect and maintain the heritage site, saying, “Let us ensure these priceless monuments remain clean, green, and protected from encroachment.”
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta lauded the restoration as a major step in reclaiming Delhi’s rich historical legacy.
The revived Sheesh Mahal is expected to become a cultural and historical attraction, inviting visitors to experience the grandeur of Mughal architecture and heritage in the heart of Delhi.
