The Forgotten Forts in Delhi: A Journey through Neglected Historical Gems
Delhi, the heart of India, is synonymous with grandeur, bustling streets, and monuments that stand as eternal reminders of its imperial past. From the majestic Red Fort to the towering Qutub Minar, the city draws countless tourists to its celebrated landmarks.
But what if there is more to Delhi than these familiar icons? Tucked away in its sprawling urban landscape lie forgotten forts—centuries-old bastions that silently whisper stories of ambition, power, and cultural brilliance. These hidden treasures, often overlooked by visitors, carry the legacy of rulers, battles, and forgotten empires. This article will take you on a captivating journey through the lesser-known forts in Delhi, exploring their historical significance, architectural brilliance, and current state of neglect. Are you ready to uncover some hidden gems?
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Revisiting Delhi’s Legacy beyond the Obvious
When it comes to historical monuments, the spotlight often falls on the Red Fort or Humayun’s Tomb. Yet, the forts in Delhi extend beyond these well-trodden paths. These lesser-visited bastions tell equally fascinating tales of the dynasties that shaped the city—Tughlaqs, Mughals, and even the Tomars before them.
However, with time and changing priorities, some of these forts slipped into the shadows. Overgrown with wild grass, forgotten by visitors, and left to the mercy of time, these forts offer a glimpse into the forgotten chapters of Delhi’s rich history.
1. Tughlaqabad Fort: A Monument of Ambition and Ruins
Built by: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq (1321)
Significance: The first fort-city of Delhi
Tughlaqabad Fort, a once-imposing citadel, stands on the southern outskirts of Delhi. Constructed with the ambition of being an unbreachable fortress, the sheer size of its stone walls reflects Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq’s military vision.
But fate had other plans. Legend has it that a curse from a saint, Nizamuddin Auliya, doomed the fort to abandonment. The words—"Ya rahe ujjar, ya bassey gujjar" (May it remain barren or be inhabited by herdsmen)—still echo in popular lore.
Today, the ruins of Tughlaqabad spread over 6.5 km, with bastions and watchtowers peeking through the dense vegetation. Though the fort is in a state of disrepair, walking through it feels like time-traveling to a bygone era, with remnants of old walls and chambers telling stories of unfulfilled ambition.
2. Adilabad Fort: The Lesser-Known Sibling of Tughlaqabad
Built by: Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325)
Significance: Strategic defense post
Adilabad Fort, situated just a few kilometers from Tughlaqabad, remains one of the most obscure forts in Delhi. Smaller in size but identical in architectural style, this fort was built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq to fortify his hold over Delhi.
Over the centuries, Adilabad became overshadowed by larger monuments. Today, it lies in quiet solitude, barely visited by tourists. Yet, its stone walls offer the same rugged charm as its more prominent counterparts and the surrounding wilderness creates an atmosphere of serene isolation.
3. Feroz Shah Kotla: A Sanctuary for Lost Souls and Spirits
Built by: Feroz Shah Tughlaq (1354)
Significance: A blend of politics and mysticism
Located in the heart of modern Delhi, Feroz Shah Kotla Fort hides in plain sight. Unlike the other forts in Delhi, this site has evolved into a mystical space over time. Local folklore suggests that spirits and djinns reside here, and every Thursday, devotees flock to the fort to light candles and offer prayers.
Despite its somewhat eerie reputation, the fort is a marvel of medieval architecture, featuring the Ashokan Pillar—a 3rd-century BC monolith transported from Ambala. The juxtaposition of ancient relics and haunting folklore makes Feroz Shah Kotla an intriguing site for history lovers.
4. Siri Fort: The Lost City of the Khiljis
Built by: Alauddin Khilji (1303)
Significance: The second city of Delhi
Siri Fort, once the seat of Alauddin Khilji’s empire, is now an archaeological fragment hidden amidst the urban sprawl. This fort was known for withstanding Mongol invasions and was a key administrative centre of the Khilji dynasty.
Sadly, not much of Siri Fort survives today, except for fragments of walls and gates. Its legacy lives on through the bustling Siri Fort Auditorium, now a cultural hub for the city. However, exploring the remaining ruins is like piecing together a forgotten puzzle of Delhi’s medieval history.
5. Purana Qila: The Ancient Fort with Layered Histories
Built by: Humayun and Sher Shah Suri
Significance: A fort that predates the Mughals
While Purana Qila (Old Fort) is relatively more popular than other forgotten forts, it still doesn't receive the same recognition as the Red Fort. Interestingly, archaeologists believe that the site of Purana Qila might date back to the Mahabharata era, possibly marking the location of ancient Indraprastha.
Purana Qila is a confluence of architectural styles, with contributions from both the Mughal emperor Humayun and his rival, Sher Shah Suri. Today, the fort hosts a beautiful lake where visitors can enjoy boating, making it a perfect blend of history and recreation. Yet, its ancient charm often remains underappreciated, lost in the shadow of more famous monuments.
Why Have These Forts Been Neglected?
One might wonder—how did these forts in Delhi fall into obscurity? Several factors contributed to their neglect:
Changing priorities: As new rulers came and went, certain monuments were abandoned in favour of newer ones.
Urban expansion: The rapid urbanization of Delhi has swallowed many historical sites, leaving little room for preservation.
Lack of tourism promotion: Most visitors flock to the more famous landmarks, leaving these lesser-known forts without attention.
Poor maintenance: While some of these forts are under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), limited resources and public apathy have led to their deterioration.
How to Explore the Forgotten Forts of Delhi
If you’re a history enthusiast or love exploring offbeat places, these forts in Delhi offer a rewarding experience. Here are some suggestions for your journey:
? Visit during the early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
? Wear comfortable shoes, as some forts require walking through uneven terrain.
? Hire a local guide to dive deeper into the lesser-known stories attached to these sites.
? Carry water and snacks, as amenities near these forts are often limited.
? Capture the experience through photography but take a moment to soak in the history without a lens.
Where to Stay: The Blue Kite – Your Gateway to Exploration
When embarking on a journey through Delhi’s forgotten forts, choosing the right place to stay is essential. A comfortable base ensures you’re well-rested and allows easy access to the city’s hidden marvels. This is where The Blue Kite comes in.
With an array of luxury villas and properties scattered across prime locations in Delhi, The Blue Kite offers an unmatched blend of comfort and convenience. Whether you're looking for a private villa with lush gardens or a stylish apartment in the city, they have the perfect space for every kind of traveller. From these villas, visitors can set out on immersive tours to explore the forgotten forts in Delhi, returning each day to the warmth and luxury of a well-appointed retreat.
Conclusion
Delhi’s charm goes beyond the polished domes and celebrated minarets. The forgotten forts in Delhi are waiting to be rediscovered, offering a glimpse into chapters of history that have been long overshadowed. As you wander through these remnants, you don’t just explore old stones—you engage with stories of ambition, resilience, and mystery.
In a city as dynamic as Delhi, it is easy to overlook these silent witnesses of the past. But perhaps, by revisiting these historical gems, we can reconnect with a deeper sense of our heritage. Next time you're in Delhi, take a detour from the usual attractions. The forgotten forts are waiting—will you uncover their secrets?
