Indri’s Sheesh Mahal to be among state-protected monuments

The Haryana Government has given its nod to include Sheesh Mahal, a historical site in Indri of the district, among state-protected monuments. After the approval, the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Haryana, has initiated the process to declare Sheesh Mahal as a state-protected monument.

Believed to belong to the Mughal or post-Mughal era, this historic fortress holds immense archaeological, cultural and natural significance. The move is being seen as a crucial step towards safeguarding a site that has long suffered from neglect and deterioration.

The authorities believe while the process is long and involves multiple stages, this step will help in ensuring that this historic fortress is conserved for future generations as a reminder of the region’s rich past and its deep connection with nature.

Dr Banani Bhattacharya, Deputy Director of the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Haryana, confirmed that Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini had given permission to initiate the process to take Sheesh Mahal under state protection. She explained that the state government would issue a primary notification to invite objections from the general public. After examining and addressing these objections and completing revenue record formalities, a final notification will be issued. Once the monument is officially declared state-protected, the long and detailed process of conservation will begin.

Bhattacharya emphasised that Sheesh Mahal was once a beautiful site and deserved urgent attention. She said after all approvals, conservation work would be executed, ensuring that the restoration was carried out in a systematic and professional manner.

Sheesh Mahal is a heritage monument with rich archaeological importance. Once a beautiful and thriving complex, it now stands in a dilapidated condition, silently narrating stories of its glorious past. Despite the decay, the remnants of its architecture still reflect the grandeur of the period to which it belongs. The site is a historical fortress that not only represents architectural excellence but also reflects the cultural and administrative importance of the region during the Mughal or post-Mughal times.

As per the details available with the department, Sheesh Mahal complex had a unique feature. It had Naulakha Bagh, which was historically renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity. It is believed that the garden once housed nearly 9,00,000 varieties of plants, making it an exceptional blend of historical architecture and botanical wealth. This rare combination elevates Sheesh Mahal beyond a mere historical structure, placing it at the intersection of cultural heritage and natural history.

However, it is surrounded by long and huge bushes and it is difficult to reach there, but people can still sense the ecological richness that might have once flourished there, even though much of it has been lost to time.

At present, Sheesh Mahal remains a site of neglect, exposed to weathering, encroachments and gradual decay. However, the move to declare it as a state-protected monument offers renewed hope for its revival. People have welcomed the move of the state government. Nikhil, a resident, said conservation would not only help preserve the physical structure but also revive public awareness about its historical and ecological importance.

Arun Kaharba, a teacher, said Sheesh Mahal had its own importance and it was believed to be a fort of queen Nihaldey. This structure gives an impression of a perfect blend of Indian and Grecian architecture. The domes are supported by aisles and arches in pinnacle style with overhanging casements made from small bricks. It is believed that the Maghas migrated to this area.