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Wednesday, Jun 08, 2005

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Ajmer's forgotten monument

T. Ramakrishnan

— Photo: T. Ramakrishnan

A view of Adhai-Din-ka-Jhonpra, a historical monument at Ajmer in Rajasthan.

AJMER: The 15-centuries-old city of Ajmer reminds most people only of the famous "dargah" of the Sufi saint, Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, attracting lakhs of devotees from all over the world. Some 200-300 feet away, there is another monument that does not get much attention, but is equally significant to any history lover.

This little-known monument is popularly called Adhai-din-ka-Jhonpra, situated at the foot of the Taragah hill. It is an architectural marvel with a marble arch in the centre and fine workmanship on stone.

The Archaeological Survey of India says that the name of the monument possibly derives from the fact that a fair used to be held there for two-and-a half days. The monument, said to have been constructed by Qutbuddin Aibek around 1200 A.D., is a mosque where people still offer prayers. In spite of its chequered history, the monument today looks forlorn with very little maintenance. The environment surrounding the site needs to be improved as garbage is strewn around and the sewage overflows.

The authorities too are conscious of the problem and C.B. Mishra, superintending archaeologist of the ASI at Jaipur, says the department has drawn up a plan to develop the area. "On the rear portion of the monument, there were some encroachments, which we have cleared. We are planning to landscape the spot." If the ASI's plans materialise, they will add to the beauty of the monument.

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