Mubarak Manzil, an important Mughal building from the 17th century, was mostly demolished in Agra just three months after a notice was issued to protect it. Local people said that over 100 tractor loads of debris were removed from the site after the destruction.
Mubarak Manzil, also known as Aurangzeb’s Haveli, has a rich history, described in a book by historian Ebba Koch called The Complete Taj Mahal and the Riverfront Gardens of Agra. Built during the rule of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, it housed important figures like Shah Jahan and Shuja. The building was altered during British rule and was used as a customs house and salt office. By 1902, it was referred to as Tara Niwas.
In September, the state archaeological department asked for objections to making the site a protected monument within a month, but no one objected. Two weeks ago, officials from Lucknow visited to start preservation work. However, just after their visit, demolition quickly began, leaving the site in ruins.
Local residents claimed that a builder, alongside police and administrative officials, carried out the demolition even though objections had been raised. One resident, Kapil Vajpayee, told a news outlet, “I filed several complaints with the authorities, but no action was taken, and the demolition continued. So far, 70% of the structure has been destroyed. We are planning to file a public interest lawsuit in the high court.”
Agra District Magistrate Aravind Mallappa Bangari confirmed that the authorities knew about the situation. He said, “We have taken notice of the matter. The Archaeological Survey of India and the revenue department have been asked to investigate. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate will visit the site and make a report. Meanwhile, no more changes will be allowed at the site.”
A report from 1871 by Archibald Campbell Carlyle gave detailed information about the architecture of Mubarak Manzil. A marble plaque at the site indicates that Aurangzeb built it after winning the Battle of Samugarh. Historian Rajkishore Raje mentioned that Aurangzeb renamed a palace that belonged to Dara Shikoh to celebrate his victory in that battle.
An 1868 map of Agra shows Mubarak Manzil near the old pontoon bridge, where a modern iron bridge now stands. During British rule, the East Indian Railway used it as a goods depot. The building, made of red sandstone, had lower arched floors, and its minarets showed a mix of Mughal and British architectural styles.
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