Agra’s 1 7th-Century Mughal-era haveli razed by ‘builder’ | India News

AGRA: the 17th century Mubarak Manzila Mughal heritage site also known as Aurangzeb‘s Haveli, was largely demolished in Agra just three months after the state archaeological department issued a notification to protect the monument. More than 100 rubble tractors were removed from the site after the demolition campaign, local residents said Thursday. They say a builder, in connivance with officials, demolished it.
Mubarak Manzil occupies an important place in history, as detailed in Austrian historian Ebba Koch’s book ‘The Complete Taj Mahal and the Riverside Gardens of Agra’. Built during the reign of Aurangzeb, it served as a residence for key Mughal figures including Shah Jahan, Shuja and Aurangzeb. The structure was modified under British rule, becoming a customs and salt office. In 1902, it was known as Tara Niwas.
A plaque at the Agra site indicates that Aurangzeb built the monument.
In September, the state archaeological department had issued a notification seeking objections to the site being declared a protected monument within a month, but none were raised. And two weeks ago, officials from Lucknow visited the site to initiate preservation measures. However, demolition began shortly after their visit, leaving the historic structure in ruins.
Locals alleged that a builder, in connivance with police and administrative officials, carried out the demolition despite objections and the presence of a police outpost near the site along the Yamuna.
A local resident, Kapil Vajpayee, told TOI, “I lodged several complaints with the authorities but no action was taken. So far, 70% of the structure has been destroyed.”
Agra DM Aravind Mallappa Bangari confirmed that the authorities were “aware” of the problem. “We have taken cognizance of the matter. The Archaeological Survey of India and the revenue department have been directed to conduct an inquiry. The sub-divisional magistrate has been asked to visit the site and submit a report. In the meantime, no further changes.
Archibald Campbell Carlyle’s report of 1871 provided detailed information on Mubarak Manzil’s architecture. A marble plaque at the site indicated that it was built by Aurangzeb after his victory in the Battle of Samugarh. Historian Rajkishore Raje added that Aurangzeb renamed the palace Dara Shikoh to commemorate his triumph in the same battle.
The 1868 map of Agra places Mubarak Manzil near the pontoon bridge, where the present iron bridge is located. During British rule, the East India Railway used it as a goods depot. The structure’s red sandstone base, arched lower floors and minarets reflected a mix of Mughal and British architectural influences.