Latest news with #Indo-Islamic
News18
5 days ago
- News18
Four arrested for theft of finial of mausoleum at heritage site Sarkhej Roza
Ahmedabad, Jul 17 (PTI) Four members of a gang allegedly involved in the theft of a 150-year-old metal finial piece from a tomb at the heritage site Sarkhej Roza on the outskirts of the city have been arrested, police said on Thursday. Unfortunately, only broken pieces of the sacred finial or `kalash', called 'Panjtan Pak', were recovered as the accused were planning to sell the metal pieces as scrap, said Deputy Commissioner of Police (crime) Ajit Rajian. While four gang members were nabbed by the Ahmedabad crime branch from Mehsana district, four others were still at large, he said. The Sarkhej Roza complex in Makarba area houses a shrine of Shaikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Bakhsh, spiritual mentor of Ahmedabad's founder Sultan Ahmed Shah. Built in 1451, this Indo-Islamic masterpiece has been protected by the Archaeological Survey of India since 1921, said DCP Rajian. As per the complaint filed by the Sarkhej Roza committee on July 1, unidentified persons climbed the main dome of the mausoleum of Ganj Bakhsh during the previous night and stole the 150-year-old finial weighing nearly 6 kg. The arrested men were identified as Suresh Dantani, Munna Dantani, Vishnu Dantani and Gopal Dantani, all residents of Mehsana. The gang climbed the tomb using ropes and stole the finial hoping to sell it as scrap material, said a police release, adding that broken pieces of the artifact were recovered from the possession of the arrested persons. The accused are habitual offenders named in several past cases of theft and other offences in Ahmedabad, Mehsana and Patan districts, said the release, adding that search is on for the other four gang members. PTI PJT KRK view comments First Published: July 17, 2025, 19:45 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
5 days ago
- The Hindu
Stolen 150-year-old kalash from Ahmedabad's Sarkhej Roza recovered, four held
The Ahmedabad Crime Branch police have recovered the 150-year-old sacred 'Panjtan Pak Kalash', stolen from the Sarkhej Roza mausoleum, a nationally protected monument in the Gujarat capital. The police have arrested four persons for the theft, while four others are absconding. The theft, reported at the Sarkhej police station on July 1, involved the disappearance of a Panjtan Pak Kalash — a religious urn made of Panchdhatu (five metals) — from the dome of Sheikh Ahmad Khattu Ganj Bakhsh's mausoleum, said Deputy Commissioner of Police Ajit Rajian. It was installed on the dome of the mausoleum of Sheikh Ahmad Khattu Ganj Bakhsh — the spiritual mentor of Sultan Ahmad Shah, founder of Ahmedabad. The artefact is deeply revered in the Islamic faith and holds significant cultural and spiritual value for devotees, who tie threads of mannat (faith) to it. Sarkhej Roza was built around 1445 CE. 'Considering the religious and cultural sensitivity of the site, a special team of the Ahmedabad Crime Branch immediately initiated a thorough investigation and arrested four persons, while four more are at large,' Mr. Rajian said. 'Panjtan Pak' refers to the five holy members of Prophet Muhammad's family. 'Architecturally, the site represents a 575-year-old Indo-Islamic masterpiece, protected by the Archaeological Survey of India since 1921. It is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List and played a pivotal role in Ahmedabad's recognition as a World Heritage City in 2017,' Mr. Rajian said. The police official said: 'The probe included extensive CCTV footage review, aerial drone surveys of nearby lakes and remote areas, and the use of technical surveillance. We traced the accused to Kadi town in Mehsana district, where they were reportedly planning to sell the artefact.' The four accused arrested were: Sureshbhai Dharmshibhai Dantani (40), a labourer from Chaprama, Kadi, Mehsana, originally from Peparana village in Harij taluka, Patan district; Gopalbhai Dharmshibhai Dantani (30), labourer, and younger brother of Sureshbhai, with the same residential details; Munnabhai Jayantibhai Dantani (23), labourer, also from Chaprama, with family roots in Chanasma, Patan; and Vishnubhai Chunabhai Dantani (22), labourer, resident of Rajvinagar, Jotana, Mehsana, originally from Shedhal, Chanasma, Patan. While those absconding are: Dinesh Dharmshibhai Dantani, resident of Chaprama, Kadi, Mehsana, native of Peparana, Patan; Kishorbhai Somabhai Dantani, resident of Mahemdabad, Kheda district; Jaliben Somabhai Dantani, resident of Chaprama, Kadi, Mehsana, a native of Peparana, Harij, Patan, and Dasu Dantani, a resident of Pendarpur, Chanasma, Patan.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Time of India
This monument has been crowned the ‘World's Most Beautiful in 2025'
In a recent survey conducted by Time Out, India' Taj Mahal has been crowned the 'World's Most Beautiful in 2025'. The prestigious title bagged by Agra's white marble beauty once again proves why the world is crazy after the Taj Mahal, the monument of love. It is a stunning recognition of architectural beauty which has edged out 23 other global marvels on the planet. Let's have a closer look: Taj Mahal: A Monument Built from Love and Sorrow The Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632. It is a gorgeous piece of art that celebrates love and sorrow at the same time. The monument was built by the king for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. It took some 22 years and around 20,000 artisans, labourers, and architects to build this masterpiece of love. Architectural wonder The Taj Mahal stands as a living example of Indo-Islamic architecture. It beautifully blends Persian domes, Islamic calligraphy, and Indian pietra dura inlays and the iconic ivory‑white marble dome reflects beauty like no other. Global recognition The Taj Mahal is already a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1983) and one of the Seven Wonders of The World. The new ranking comes at a moment when it is already celebrated across the globe. The monument draws over seven million visitors every year which only shows its global popularity. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo The monument celebrates diverse architectural beauty from across the globe, including monuments in Asian countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Japan. But the Taj Mahal took away the title—a recognition largely attributed to its heritage value and architectural perfection. As per architectural critiques and romantic travellers, the Taj Mahal's crowning as the most beautiful building is a validation of its ever-beautiful soul—the eternal love story it narrates. Top 24 most beautiful buildings in the list include: The Taj Mahal, Agra, India Hallgrímskirkja, Iceland The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt Fallingwater, USA Ad-Dayr in Petra, Jordan Fondation Louis Vuitton, France Trinity College Library, Ireland Trinity College Library, Ireland Great Mosque of Djenne, Mali Nasir Ol Molk Mosque, Iran The Twist, Norway Sagrada Familia, Spain Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Bangladesh Pantheon, Italy Palmenhaus at Schonbrunn Palace, Austria Bát Tràng Ceramic Community House, Vietnam Museum at Eldridge Street, USA Santuario de Las Lajas, Colombia Museum of Old and New Art, Australia Maggie's Centre, St James's Hospital, UK Baháʼí Temple of South America, Chile Futuna Chapel, New Zealand Komera Leadership Centre, Rwanda National Holocaust Monument, Canada Enryaku-ji, Japan
India.com
03-07-2025
- India.com
Exploring Lucknow Like A Pro Hacker: Free Entry, Free Food, Free Everything?!
Lucknow exists as a beautiful combination of Nawab heritage and historical heritage along with architectural beauty. Lucknow showcases its regal past through various attractions which can be enjoyed completely free of cost. Yes, you read that right! Everything in Lucknow can be enjoyed at zero cost because visiting it requires no money. The guide presented here serves as perfect material for anyone who wants to explore without thinking about expenditures. The following guide shows you how to enjoy Lucknow while spending no money during your historic city visit. Through the Bara Imambara Lucknow houses its famous landmark Bara Imambara as an architectural masterpiece. You can freely explore the wide courtyards along with examining the exterior of the central structure at Bara Imambara despite the mandatory entry fee. Visitors will find pure enjoyment exploring this 18th-century landmark over a slow and comprehensive tour. Wandering through the vast complex will allow you to experience the impressive Mughal arches alongside intricate carvings which accentuate the vast dimensions of the structure. Drew visitors are free to access the complex when religious events take place so they can observe local traditions directly. Built in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula during a famine to provide employment. Home to the famous Bhool Bhulaiya (labyrinth), though access to it requires a ticket. The structure holds one of the largest arched halls in the world which functions without supporting beams. Along the Rumi Darwaza The Rumi Darwaza stands as the emblematic entrance to Lucknow that stands prominently in the city center. People commonly refer to this impressive infrastructure as the 'Gateway to Lucknow' while it showcases Awadhi architecture through its stunning design which visitors can see unimpeded for free. Note that visiting during early mornings or late evenings provides the most comfortable experience because traffic is lightweight and enables proper observation of the detailed carvings across the gateway. Rumi Darwaza's surrounding space provides an excellent opportunity for leisurely strolls that expose viewers to beautiful city skyline perspectives. The structure was established by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula during 1784 as part of his famine relief efforts. Inspired by the gateways of Istanbul, showcasing Indo-Islamic design. Illuminated beautifully at night, making it a must-visit spot after sunset. the Satkhanda Watchtower The Satkhanda watchtower stands as an unfinished building that developers formed seven levels during the reign of Nawab Muhammad Ali Shah. The seven-floor design of this structure stopped at four finished floors because the Nawab unexpectedly passed away before completion. Visitors can see this architectural wonder at no cost because it survived as a red-brick construction. Sunrises and sunsets in this location create perfect photo opportunities because the old city provides an attractive background. Inspired by the Leaning Tower of Pisa, meant to serve as an astronomical observatory. Located near the famous Hussainabad Clock Tower. Offers panoramic views of the city from its base. Time at Janeshwar Mishra Park The Janeshwar Mishra Park offers you the chance to seek peaceful relaxation because nature lovers will find it ideal. Asian citizens can enjoy Asia's largest free public park. Walkers will find pleasure at this spot through its combination of trails along with lakes and gardens since it serves both enthusiastic joggers and calm picnickers or relaxed tree seekers. Many seasonal migrating birds stop by Janeshwar Mishra Park to visit during their yearly journey. An eco-friendly facility stretches across 376 acres of land. Inspired by Hyde Park in London, with multiple jogging and cycling tracks. Visitors can enjoy observing ducks together with various birds at the artificial lake within this location. the British Residency Ruins British Residency has to be seen by all history enthusiasts. Visitors can access the outer gardens together with ruins of the main museum at no charge. The remaining structures of the 1857 Revolt enable visitors to view historic aspects of India's colonial era. People who walk through the buildings with their demolished walls and canon damage steps into the historic period. The site develops an extra-historic ambiance during evening hours because the fading sunlight enhances the antique character of the ruins. Throughout the 1857 Revolt the Residency acted as the main operational base of the Siege of Lucknow. Houses the graves of British soldiers who died during the siege. Now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. the Bustling Hazratganj Market The animated atmosphere of Hazratganj welcomes everyone without any financial requirement. The shopping area consists of historical colonial structures alongside bookstores and various cafes. Visiting shops for free exploration in Hazratganj creates as entertaining an experience as shopping. The antiquated market appeal derives from its maintained conventional signage and lamp illumination of its streets. If you visit in the evening, the whole area lights up, making for a perfect leisurely walk. Established in 1810, Hazratganj has been a major commercial hub since British times. Known for its Victorian-style street lamps and uniform signage. Great for exploring bookstores and watching live street performances. a Cultural Performance at La Martinière Collège The magnificent colonial-era La Martinière College presents occasional free performances of culture, different types of music and literary events for visitors. Check their upcoming schedule because interesting shows can sometimes be viewed totally free of cost. The magnificent European-style architectural beauty of the space makes a spectacle even without scheduled events. The institution started operations in 1845 after French adventurer Claude Martin established it. The only school in the world to have been awarded battle honors for its role in the 1857 Revolt. The architectural style is Gothic with stained-glass windows and elegant gardens can be found in this structure. Conclusion Lucknow provides a free exploration that delivers an exceptional value to its visitors. Lucknow provides its visitors with numerous free experiences including historic sites as well as peaceful parks and colorful marketplaces. Lucknow extends its welcoming arms to all visitors who want to experience its culture without any expense requirements. Use your walking footwear together with your camera to embark on an exploration of the City of Nawabs at no expense.
Time Out
02-07-2025
- Time Out
The Indian mausoleum named the world's most beautiful building
There are some really, really gorgeous buildings out there, be them intricately detailed cathedrals, futuristic-looking museums or Gothic libraries – but none of them quite compare to the beauty of the Taj Mahal in Agra, India. Time Out just dropped a brand-new list of the planet's most dazzling buildings, eight of which were in Europe, plus a handful in North America and Africa, but the legacy, grandeur and endearing inspiration behind the Taj Mahal is why we selected it as number one. Think you've done some romantic gestures in your time? Chances are you've got nothing on Shah Jahan, the former Mughal Emperor who commissioned the building of the Taj Mahal in memory of his late wife. It took 22 years for the building to be finished. Construction began in 1632 and was not complete until 1653, but given the buildings' scale and magnificent design, you can see why. It's thought the building's beauty was inspired by hers, and English poet Sir Edwin Arnold reportedly said that the palace was 'not a piece of architecture, as other buildings are, but the proud passion of an emperor's love wrought in living stones. Talk about green flags, eh? Today, the Taj Mahal is considered a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and welcomes somewhere between 7 and 8 million visitors each year.
