Tanya SachdevThere was a time when step wells were a common sight. But now they are majorly found in history textbooks. Finding a step well in the heart of the city is exciting and a pleasant change. Agrasen ki Baoli is located on Hailey Road near Connaught Place in Delhi. It is quite popular especially amongst youngsters. The monument is one of the best preserved step wells of Delhi. Thanks to Honor 5C & Travelling Camera, these pictures capture the rustic charm and hidden history of the monument and each picture cries out the bruises made by man and time.
The Bollywood flick PK bought attention to Agrasen ki Baoli. It was PK’s home in the movie. Parts of the song Bol na halke halke from Jhoom Barabar Jhoom were also shot here.
In ancient times baoli, or step wells were community places. Now you’ll find college students and young couples clicking selfies, and having a leisure time at the monument. It is also a great location for fashion shoots and pre-wedding shoots.
Amidst the concrete jungle this baoli comes like a breath of freshness. Baolis are known for their intricate detailing and splendid architecture. It holds true for Agrasen ki Baoli as well. The detailed architecture is the highlight of the monument. There is a circular wall about 8m in diameter at the northern end of the baoli. It is covered with grills and is connected to the well by a shaft.
Agrasen ki Baoli has 108 steps. The visible part consists of 3 levels, each lined with arched niches on both sides. Experts believe that it was built by Emperor Agrasen. The exact date of construction of the monument is not known. However in the 14th century it was rebuilt by the Agarwal Community. This community traces its origin to Maharaja Agrasen.
Above the flight of steps, at the west corner of the baoli, there is a small mosque. Beautiful motifs have been carved in red sandstone pillars that support the roof. Although a part of the roof of the mosque has fallen off.
Admiring the beauty of the place and soaking up the ancient vibe, this is a great way to spend a winter afternoon or a breezy summer evening. It’s a nice place to spend time with your group of buddies or steal some moments with your bae.
It’s fascinating to see how the structure built way back in time still stands strong and awaits to tell an unheard story. The old world charm of the baoli and high rise buildings of Tolstoy Marg in the background makes a sharp contrast.
Legends say that the dark water of the well was the place where a lot of people committed suicide. Maybe that’s why stories of the place being haunted started making rounds. Cannot say how much truth does this legend or these stories have. But there is something captivating and intriguing about the place.
All the pictures are clicked by Honor 5C. The camera of the phone is amazing and highlights the beauty of the place so well. Easy to handle with multiple features and with convenience to upload pictures on social media, the phone is a blogger’s best companion. I am proud to be a part of the Honor family.
The last word: As responsible citizens it is our duty to preserve our heritage. It is heart breaking to see people littering the place with wrappers and plastic bottles, engraving their names and defacing the walls. It’s our heritage and we have to make an effort to stop doing this. And also stop others from littering and defacing.
Details about the monument:
Opening Time – 7 am to 6 pm, every day
No entry fee
Nearest Metro Station – Rajiv Chowk
When are you planning to talk to these walls? And stay tuned, I’m on spree to capture Delhi with Honor 5C. Next monument coming soon!
Tanya Sachdev
Kritika Manchanda
2 comments
I have never been here but your photos tempt me to…
Oh, such a place in my city..never knew.. 🙂 Thanks for introducing and the pictures are fabulous.