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Taarikhnama, Sasaram (2025)

07/07/2025

Every year in Imli Adamkhani, Sasaram, Bihar, a unique Tazia is made for Muharram. Unlike most, this one features Buraq, a winged creature described in Islamic texts as the steed that carried Prophet Muhammad during the night journey (Isra and Mi'raj). It’s usually imagined as an animal with wings, often between a mule and a horse, sometimes with a human face.

In our locality, people build their Tazia using this imagination—Buraq with the body of a horse, wings, and a female human face. On its back sits the Tazia, a symbolic replica of Imam Hussain’s shrine in Karbala, created to commemorate the tragedy of Ashura.

This style isn’t seen in other parts of Sasaram and stands out for its form and symbolism. When I asked the elders, they said they’ve seen this since their childhood, and it was passed down by their elders too. There’s no written history, but it’s clearly an old practice.

Such depictions of Buraq are not unique to Sasaram. Similar representations can be found in places like Varanasi, Ujjain, Jhansi, and Jabalpur. An old photograph from Firozepur, dated to the early 1900s and shared by Blend of History, also shows a comparable structure. Historical artworks—such as Company paintings and Kalighat art from the late 18th to early 19th century—likewise depict Buraq with human-like features incorporated into Tazias during Muharram.

However, this tradition does face criticism. Some Muslim groups influenced by Arab-centered ideologies argue that such representations are not aligned with Islamic teachings, especially because image-making is discouraged, and the face resembles Hindu icons. But for people here, this is more of a local cultural tradition than a religious symbol. They see religion and tradition separately, and continue to build this Tazia with respect and care.

It’s one of those practices that shows how local history and shared memory shape rituals in unique ways — even within the same faith.

26/06/2025

Many people believe that Shah Jahan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal, cut off the hands of the workers so that no one could ever build something like it again. This story has been repeated by politicians like Yogi Adityanath, Vinay Tendulkar, and Narendra Singh Tomar. News anchor Amish Devgan also shared it on social media. But is it true?

According to the Archaeological Survey of India, Shah Jahan began building the Taj Mahal in 1632 after the death of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. It was completed in 1653 with the help of over 20,000 skilled workers from India, Persia, and Central Asia. Art historian Ebba Koch, who studied original Mughal documents, confirms that there is no mention of anyone being harmed. In fact, many of these workers went on to work on other famous buildings like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid.

It seems like that the idea likely started with British writers during colonial times who wanted to show Indian rulers as cruel. These stories were picked up in movies and folk tales, but they were never based on real history.

R. Nath, a well-known expert on Mughal architecture, calls the story “ridiculous.” He point out that no Persian or Mughal records mention such an incident. Even the Padshahnama (Shah Jahan’s official biography) doesn’t say anything like that.

Why do some people still believe it? Because the story is dramatic and fits into political narratives that want to show Mughal rulers in a bad light. As political scholar Christophe Jaffrelot explains, rewriting history is often used to build a certain type of national identity.

21/06/2025

Situated in the ancient town of Amer near Jaipur, the Shri Jagat Shiromani Temple is a remarkable mixture of memory, devotion, and architecture. According to the Archaeological Survey of India (Jaipur Circle), this temple was built between 1599 and 1608 CE by Queen Kanakwati, wife of Raja Man Singh I, in memory of their son Jagat Singh, who died at a young age. The temple’s name reflects that grief and love- Jagat after her son, and Shiromani, meaning ‘crown jewel’.

As mentioned in ASI’s official description, the temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, Lord Vishnu, and Meera Bai. What makes it truly unique is the belief that the idol of Krishna housed here was once worshipped by Meera Bai herself in Mewar, later brought to Amer for safekeeping during times of invasion. Though based on oral tradition, this tale is widely respected in local culture.

The architecture of the temple is a masterpiece. The ASI notes that it brings together Rajput, Mughal, Jain, and Dravidian elements. One of its most admired features is the torana, an intricately carved arch made from a single slab of white marble. The temple also features a beautifully detailed mandapa (pillared hall), with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and floral designs. A small Garuda chhatri faces the sanctum, a feature common in Vishnu temples.

29/05/2025

Away from the bustling streets of Jaipur, in a serene valley below the Nahargarh Fort lie the Gator Ki Chhatris, built in 18th century, when Jaipur was founded by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. It is a place where memories of kings have been carved in stone. As noted by Harnath Singh in Jaipur and Its Environs, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II chose this site for his cremation, and after him, it became tradition for Jaipur’s royals to be cremated here. What remains now are not graves, but chhatris- elegant dome-shaped cenotaphs built in their memory.

Ashu Khatri, in his study on cenotaphs in northern India, describes these structures as a blend of spiritual intention and mathematical beauty. According to him, these chhatris reflect dignity, love, and remembrance. Built mostly by royal families, as a symbol of pride both in the person being remembered and in the craftsmanship used to honor them.

The cenotaph of Sawai Jai Singh II stands out in white marble, adorned with carvings of deities and mythological tales. Sawai Pratap Singh’s chhatri is architecturally rare. Its dome rests on pendentives, not flat beams, which Harnath Singh notes as a unique feature. Others, like those of Sawai Madho Singh II and Ram Singh II, combine white and pink sandstone and are rich in carvings, telling stories not just of rulers, but of eras.

Even figures beyond royalty were honored here. Raji Ayamall Khatri, a prime minister under Jai Singh II, was cremated at Gatore — a rare privilege, though his memorial no longer survives.

26/05/2025

Panna Meena Ka Kund, situated in the old town of Amer near Jaipur, Rajasthan is a perfect example of ecological architecture and cultural design. Often mistaken for just a neat grid of stairs, this eight-story stepwell is actually a water-harvesting structure designed to cool the surroundings and serve as a community space. In a semi-arid region like Rajasthan, such stepwells weren’t luxuries but lifelines. As historian B.R. Meena writes in Heritage of Rajasthan, they were vital for survival and social activity.

Built in a precise square plan, the kund features staircases crisscrossing three sides in symmetrical perfection — so much so that no two people can descend side by side. The fourth side houses a beautiful arched pavilion (baradari) offering shade and rest. Architectural historian Rima Hooja notes that the style points to construction in the late 16th or early 17th century, likely during the reign of Maharaja Jai Singh I. The Jaipur District Gazetteer supports this timeline.

According to Nawaz and Khan (2022) in their study on traditional water-based architecture, such structures weren’t just functional — they embodied a balance of form and sustainability. They captured rainwater, recharged groundwater, moderated temperature, and offered a space for daily life to unfold. Women met while collecting water, children played on the steps, and rituals were held within its cool depths.

The name “Panna Meena” has multiple stories behind it. Some trace it to Panna Miah, a eu**ch in Jai Singh I’s court, known for patronizing public works. Others link it to the Meena tribal community, early settlers of Amer, who may have built it to honor one of their leaders. Either way, the kund remains deeply rooted in local memory.

Even today, it stands silent, symmetrical, and surprisingly cool, as a reminder of a time when architecture worked with nature, not against it.

19/05/2025

Shahi Kund, literally meaning “Royal Pool,” is a historic stepwell located just outside the Eastern Gate of Karauli city in Rajasthan. This two-storey stepwell, built in red sandstone in the Rajput architectural style, reflects the grandeur of the region’s royal heritage. Constructed during the late 19th century by King Pratap Pal of Karauli, as recorded in the Rajasthan District Gazetteer – Karauli, it was primarily intended as a bathing site for the queens, with entry strictly restricted to women.

Architecturally, Shahi Kund is notable for its symmetrical design. It features staircases at each of its four corners that descend into the well, allowing access from multiple sides. The structure rests on eight turret-like bases, each crowned with a chhatri (dome-shaped pavilion), a typical element of Indo-Islamic and Rajput architecture. These chhatris, arranged around the kund, resemble petals when viewed from above, giving the monument a lotus-like appearance. The use of ornate stone carvings, domes, and geometric symmetry demonstrates the skilled craftsmanship of the period.

Despite its designation as a Rajasthan State Protected Monument, Shahi Kund is currently in a state of neglect. Several staircases are deteriorating, parts of the roof have collapsed, and the water has become polluted due to garbage being thrown into the well. This decay not only threatens its structural integrity but also erases an important chapter of Karauli’s royal and architectural history.

19/03/2025

Begur Fort, located in Akshayanagar, Bengaluru, is an ancient structure of immense historical significance. Though its exact origins remain uncertain, records suggest that Begur was mentioned as early as 900 CE. The fort is believed to have been built under the influence of the Cholas and later the Vijayanagara rulers. Unlike many defensive hilltop forts, Begur Fort was constructed on a plain, likely serving as a settlement fortification rather than a military outpost. This unique positioning suggests that it may have functioned as a regional administrative center, safeguarding temples and local settlements rather than acting as a war fort.

According to reports, the fort originally had a circular boundary covering 1.4 square kilometers, built with stone slabs and mud walls. These walls remained intact until 1850 but were gradually removed for private construction, leading to its current ruin. The Record of Rights of Village Begur (2004) states that Shree Gopalaswami Temple and Kashivishveswara Temple, located within the fort, are government-owned, while the rest of the land is privately held. This mix of ownership has complicated preservation efforts, making it difficult to declare the site a protected monument.

Historical studies highlight Begur as an important administrative and cultural center. The fort once had two entrances and inscriptions on temple walls, but most of these have either eroded or disappeared over time. Urbanization has further diminished its prominence, as modern buildings and residential layouts continue to expand around it. Despite conservation proposals in 2018, bureaucratic delays have left the site abandoned and deteriorating. The intricate carvings on the temple walls and the fort’s lone standing pillar continue to suffer from erosion, while the space has turned into a playground for local children.

Begur’s Nageshvara Temple, with its Chola-era inscriptions, is a key link to Bengaluru’s early history and has seen conservation efforts. However, the fort remains largely ignored. Without restoration, this centuries-old monument may soon be lost to the city’s rapid expansion.

27/02/2025

Nageshvara Temple in Begur is a fascinating window into Bengaluru’s ancient past. While the city is often recognized for its modern advancements, its history dates back over a thousand years. This temple, built during the Western Ganga dynasty in the 9th century, is one of the earliest references to the city's existence. Located on the outskirts of Bengaluru, it stands as a significant historical and architectural landmark, holding stories from a time long before the city's transformation into an IT hub.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this temple is an inscription from 890 AD, which mentions a "Bengaluru war," making it the earliest known reference to the city’s name. Written in Hale Kannada, the inscription records the bravery of Buttanachetty, a warrior who served under a chief named Nagatta. This important historical record was first documented by historian R. Narasimhachar in Epigraphia Carnatica and remains a key piece of evidence of Bengaluru’s ancient roots.

The temple itself is a stunning example of early South Indian architecture. Its layout includes a square sanctum that houses a Shiva Linga, a Nandi mantapa, intricately carved pillars, and beautifully designed doorways. The ceilings feature exquisite artistic panels, including depictions of Shiva and Parvati, a hallmark of Western Ganga craftsmanship. Over the centuries, rulers from the Chola, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara dynasties contributed to its expansion, each leaving behind elements of their unique architectural styles. This blend of influences makes the temple not only a place of spiritual significance but also an artistic and historical treasure.

Beyond its architectural brilliance, the Nageshvara Temple serves as a reminder of Bengaluru’s long and layered history. Walking through its stone corridors, one can sense the presence of centuries past, a time when battles were fought, dynasties flourished, and art thrived.

20/02/2025

Within the Rohtasgarh Fort in Bihar, the Harishchandra Temple stands as an important religious and historical site. It is believed to be linked to King Harishchandra, the legendary ruler known for his commitment to truth and justice. While some traditions suggest the temple was built in his honor, others believe it has always been a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva or Vishnu. Over the centuries, the temple became an integral part of the religious practices associated with Rohtasgarh.

Hindu texts such as the Markandeya Purana recount the story of King Harishchandra, who faced great hardships but remained steadfast in his truthfulness. Rajbali Singh, in Gauravshali Rohtasgarh, notes that local tradition connects the temple to the king, though there is no direct historical evidence proving its origin. Instead, the temple's presence within the fort suggests it was part of the broader religious landscape shaped by various rulers.

The earliest credible mention of the temple comes from British accounts in the early 19th century. Francis Buchanan, during his survey of Shahabad in 1812–1813, described the temple’s structure and significance within Rohtasgarh. His notes, compiled in *Journal of Francis Buchanan*, provide one of the most detailed early descriptions of the site. Later, Kuraishi, in List of Ancient Monuments Protected Under Act VII of 1904, classified it as a historically significant structure. Additionally, C.E.A. Oldham's studies on Rohtasgarh include references to the temple, reinforcing its importance in the region’s history.

Architecturally, the temple follows the Nagara style, commonly found in medieval North India. The main sanctum (garbhagriha) likely housed a deity, with an entrance adorned with intricate carvings of divine figures and decorative motifs. Though time has eroded parts of the structure, remnants of stonework still showcase floral and geometric patterns. The temple’s design suggests it was built during a period of strong Hindu patronage.

19/02/2025

Within the confines of Rohtasgarh fort in Bihar, the Rohtasan Temple stands as an ancient Shiva shrine, witnessing centuries of change. Though in ruins, it remains spiritually and historically significant. Originally called Chaurasan or Rohtasan, it symbolizes the protector deity of the hill. Legends and history intertwine here, making it a site of mythology, architecture, and past conflicts.

The temple’s origins are debated. Mythology credits its construction to King Harishchandra’s son, Rohitashva, who meditated here. Some believe his idol was worshipped until the Mughal period when it was destroyed. However, historians argue that the temple was always dedicated to Shiva, as suggested by its linga and architectural style. Dr. Buchanan Hamilton, during his 1812-13 survey, recorded local beliefs that Aurangzeb ordered its destruction and built a small mosque nearby. However, Kuraishi, in List of Ancient Monuments Protected Under Act VII of 1904, argues that if Aurangzeb had sought full destruction, he would have built a grand mosque instead of a modest one, which was later removed by the British in 1903.

A key myth links the temple to rebirth and liberation. Hindu beliefs state that a soul must pass through 84 lakh (8.4 million) life forms before attaining human birth. The temple’s 84 steps symbolize this journey, and climbing them is believed to bring salvation. Rajbali Singh, in Gauravshali Rohtasgarh, highlights this spiritual connection.

During Mughal rule, Raja Man Singh, a trusted general of Akbar, renovated the temple and reinforced the fort. His influence is seen in the grand staircase and improved stonework, which Buchanan noted appeared more recent.

The temple blends Orissan and Rajputana styles. Though its shikhara has collapsed, the sanctum (garbhagriha) remains, housing a broken linga. A Nandi statue and remnants of a mandapa hint at its lost grandeur.

Despite centuries of destruction, Rohtasan Temple remains a powerful symbol of faith and history. The climb up its sacred steps is not just physical but a journey into India’s rich cultural past.

26/01/2025

Did you know that India has its very own Leaning Tower of Pisa? It’s not in the usual tourist spots but in the holy city of Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges River. The Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple has a tilt that’s even more dramatic than the Leaning Tower of Pisa—about 9 degrees! This unique tilt has made the temple one of the most photographed spots in the city.

Located at Manikarnika Ghat, this temple’s history is as mysterious as its slant. While nobody knows exactly when it was built, most records suggest it was constructed between 1825 and 1830. According to some local legends, the temple was built by a servant of Raja Man Singh for his mother, Ratna Bai. Another story tells that the temple was cursed by goddess Ahilya Bai because the servant named the temple after herself.

What makes this temple so special is not just its tilt but also its location. Unlike most temples in Varanasi that sit higher up on the Ganges’ banks, this one was built at a very low level. Because of this, the temple’s inner sanctum, known as the garbhagriha, often gets submerged in water during the monsoon season. The river’s constant flow has also caused the soil beneath the temple to erode over time, leading to the building's lean.

The temple was built in the Nagara architectural style with a tall shikhara (spire) and a Samvarna mandapa (hall). Photos from the 1860s show the temple standing straight, but over time, the leaning became more noticeable. By the 20th century, the tilt was undeniable. Sadly, in 2015, a lightning strike damaged part of the temple, making its future even more uncertain.

Even though the temple’s foundation has weakened, it’s still standing strong today, showing how the power of nature and time can shape history. Despite all the challenges, the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple remains an iconic, hidden gem in Varanasi. If you ever visit, it’s worth checking out for its beauty, history, and the amazing story of how it has withstood the forces of nature.

23/01/2025

Agam Kuan, or the "Unfathomable Well," is an ancient site in Patna, Bihar, surrounded by mystery, myths, and history. It was first highlighted by British explorer Laurence Waddell in the 1890s, who believed it was part of Emperor Ashoka's legendary "Hell Chambers." According to this theory, the well was used during Ashoka's early, ruthless days for punishing people. Ashoka’s Edict VIII even mentions a fiery well, which many think refers to Agam Kuan. Chinese travelers like Fa Hien also wrote about such gruesome practices in ancient India. However, no evidence, like skeletons or ashes, has ever been found to back these stories.

Legends around Agam Kuan are equally fascinating. One says Ashoka threw the heads of 99 of his elder half-brothers into the well to claim the throne. Another Jain tale talks about a monk named Sudarshana, who was thrown into the well by a king but miraculously floated up sitting on a lotus. There's even a myth that the well connects to the mythical underworld. Patala, as a saint, reportedly found a log in the well that had been lost in the sea.

The well itself is an architectural wonder. It’s 105 feet deep, with a brick lining in the upper part and wooden rings reinforcing the lower section. Around the well is a circular structure with eight arched windows, believed to have been added during Mughal Emperor Akbar's reign. Despite being covered in moss now, the design is still awe-inspiring.

Next to the well is the Sh*tala Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Sh*tala, who is believed to protect against diseases like smallpox. The temple is also home to statues of seven mother goddesses, called the Saptamatrikas. People come here to pray for health and to fulfill their wishes, throwing coins and flowers into the well as offerings. Interestingly, the temple has a female priest, which is quite rare.

Agam Kuan is not just a historical site but also a spiritual place full of legends and stories that have been passed down for centuries. Whether you believe in the myths or not, its connection to Ashoka, its unique structure, and its role in local traditions make it a must-visit spot in Patna.

Taarikhnama

07/07/2025

26/06/2025

21/06/2025

29/05/2025

26/05/2025

19/05/2025

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27/02/2025

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