Why in the News?

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in private collaboration, has successfully completed the restoration of Rajon ki Baoli, a 16th-century Lodi-era stepwell located in New Delhi.

About Rajon ki Baoli:

• Location: Situated in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Delhi, around 400 meters south of Adham Khan’s Tomb.
• Build year: Built in 1506 CE by Daulat Khan Lodi, an official under Sikandar Lodi.
• Name Meaning: “Rajon ki Baoli” means “Stepwell of the Masons”, referring to raj mistris, not royalty.
• Structure: The stepwell is rectangular, covering 1,610 sq m, and is 13.4 meters deep.
• Design: It is a 4-level structure, with only the topmost tier visible from ground level.
• Architectural Features:
  • Includes verandas, arched corridors, 12-pillared arcades, and stucco medallions.
  • The complex also has a mosque, a tomb, and a chhatri (pavilion).
• Purpose: Served as a water source and resting place and had social-religious utility.

About the Lodi Dynasty:

• The Lodi Dynasty ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1451 to 1526.
• Founder: Established by Bahlul Lodi, the first Afghan ruler of Delhi.
• Territorial Control: Dominated Punjab, Jaunpur, Gwalior, and the Upper Ganga Valley.
• Key Rulers:

1. 1. Bahlul Lodi (1451–1489): Annexed Jaunpur and solidified Afghan influence in northern India.
   2. Sikandar Lodi (1489–1517): Founded Agra, introduced agricultural reforms, standardised land with Gaz-i-Sikandari, and patronised literature and music. He imposed jizya and demolished temples in Mathura, reflecting intolerance.
   3. Ibrahim Lodi (1517–1526): Lost the First Battle of Panipat to Babur, ending the dynasty and the Sultanate.

• Successor: Their fall marked the shift from the Delhi Sultanate to the Mughal Empire in Indian history.

Tap to read more about Traditional Water Harvesting Systems in India.

ASI completes conservation work in Lodhi-era stepwell – The Hindu

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