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A tale from forgotten city - Photoblog

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Among the fourteen gates build by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Kashmere Gate is one of the survived structure. Facing towards the north it still reminds of the Seventh City of Delhi. Shah Jahan who holds the credit of being great city planner built Shahjahanabad, the seventh city of Delhi in 1649. All fourteen gates were made up of hard bricks and encircled in a way to protect the royal city.

Many say the name given Kashmere gate, as it was facing north, towards Kashmir. The ruined, silent historical site has witnessed many sighs. It has seen glorious Mughal days and also blood during the British era. And currently, after large portion being demolished in 1965, the gate is under the protection of Archeological Survey of India.

However, in early 18th century when Britishers start settling in Delhi, they found the walled city in poor condition. And while building residence near Kashmere gate, they started repairing the walls.

At the time of 1857 revolt, a bridge which used to be a charm of the site got destroyed with a left leaf of the gate. The place was also the gathering point for freedom strugglers. And during the revolt, British army used Kashmere gate to restrict the mutineers from entering the city.  The wall of the gate still carries the mark of assault made by gunpowder.

However, with the establishment of city, New Delhi in 1931, the historic walled city gradually lost its importance and so as the gate. And today alone standing, the iron fenced structure is occupied by a bunch of monkeys with nobody to narrate its story.


Facing towards blue sky; two way gate still waiting for 'Musafir'


Front view of the Kashmere Gate



Remaining portion of demolished wall




Carrying sigh of mutiny; Gate reminding attack of 14 September 1857  



The 'Bird of peace' found its shelter in blocks made by gunpowder


Plaque at Kashmiri Gate, commemorating the September 14, 1857 attack on it by British Army


Posing between shade and glare


View behind the bars


Now if you wish to give your eye a real glimpse of the sight than take metro ride to Kashmere Gate station and walk for three minutes towards Ritz Cinema and you will find your destination right after.

Location Kashmere Gate
[Text and photos by Anwarul Hoda]

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