Conservation and Landscape Restoration of the Batashewala Garden Tomb Complex

Standing to the north of the Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site, the 11 acre “Batashewala Complex” includes two Mughal era tomb-garden enclosures within which stand three tombs, of national importance, and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). They are a significant part of the 16th century Mughal necropolis adjacent to the Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the 14th century Sufi saint who has been revered for seven centuries.

The tomb of Mirza Muzaffar Hussain, grand-nephew of Emperor Humayun and son-in-law of Emperor Akbar, is the principal tomb in the complex. The Chota Batashewala and the domed Mughal tomb can be considered contemporary because of their location in the complex and their architectural character.

In addition to their historical significance, their association with the Mughal royal family and the architectural significance of the unique plan for all three structures, the tombs stand within a significant archaeological zone comprising of other 16th and 17th century garden-tombs.

The conservation effort, since 2011, has aimed at recovering the architectural integrity of the monuments. This has been achieved with the use of traditional materials and building techniques in order to replace 20th century alterations that were carried out with modern materials, such as cement. Portions of the structures and the enclosure walls – demolished in 1989 to create a camping ground – have been reconstructed. The landscape design of the two enclosed gardens is inspired by the Mughal char-bagh layout, and planted with trees favoured by the Mughals – mango, neem, and citrus, amongst others.

Restored linkages with other 16th century garden-tombs standing in the adjacent Sundar Nursery and the Humayun’s Tomb Complex will also allow visitors an enhanced understanding of this Mughal necropolis.

Source: Aga Khan Trust for Culture

Aga Khan Trust for Culture. Conservation and Landscape Restoration of the Batashewala Garden Tomb Complex. Delhi: Aga Khan Trust for Culture, 2015.