Journalism of Courage
Delhi's Sheesh Mahal palace, located in Shalimar Bagh, opened its gates to visitors after months of restoration work on July 2, 2025.
(Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Unveiled by Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, the palace had been in a state of ruin till Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena initiated a conservation drive in January 2024. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Built in 1653 by Izz-un-Nisha Begum, wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the monument was a tribute — and a replica — of the Shalimar Bagh in Kashmir, and a fine example of Mughal garden architecture designed to be a royal retreat away from Shahjahanabad’s bustle. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
The name Shalimar—derived from ‘Shala’ and ‘Mara,’ meaning ‘abode of pleasure’—was reportedly given by the emperor himself. The Sheesh Mahal also holds historical significance as the site of Aurangzeb’s first coronation in 1658. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
The structure has witnessed multiple phases of Delhi’s history — from Aurangzeb’s self-coronation in 1658 to Nadir Shah’s encampment during his invasion of Delhi in 1738 — before being absorbed into the British estates. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
In 1983, it was declared a monument of national importance, and the ASI has been preserving it since. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
The Sheesh Mahal, the Baradari (pavilion with 12 doors), and three heritage-era cottages were unveiled to the public after restoration undertaken by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), under the technical supervision of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). (Source: Wikimedia Commons)
