Eid Al Adha: 5 Heritage Walks To Reconnect With India’s Islamic History. Credit: Canva
Right from the towering Taj Mahal that is synonymous with our rich cultural legacy to the derelict tombs that dot almost every lane in Old Delhi, India’s cultural landscape is inextricably linked to Islam. Our plural heritage is complex to say the least, but its influence can’t be neglected, especially on India’s art and architecture. One of the most immersive ways to engage with this history is through heritage walks, which go beyond monuments to reveal the stories, lives and legacies behind the walls. On Eid weekend, take your pick from these five thoughtfully curated heritage walks across India that shed light on India’s rich Islamic history and heritage.
Shahjahanabad Walk, Delhi
Shahjahanabad, as Old Delhi was once called, is a walled city built by Emperor Shah Jahan after he shifted his capital from Agra to Delhi. The city had seven gates, of which gates like Ajmeri, Kashmiri still stand today. With the walls, you can also explore the iconic Jama Masjid to the poetry-laced lanes of Ballimaran. You can add multiple pit stops at the city’s age-old eateries that still serve recipes from royal kitchens.
Golconda Fort & Qutb Shahi Tombs Walk, Hyderabad, Telangana
Before Hyderabad became synonymous with pearls and biryani, it was ruled by the Qutb Shahi dynasty who built the most iconic structures in this city: Golconda Fort (from where the royal family ruled the region) and the Qutb Shahi Tombs (where seven generations of Qutb Shahi dynasty are buried). This walk through their fort and elaborate tomb complex offers insight into Persianate architecture, Deccani arts and the evolution of Indo-Islamic design.
Bhopal’s Islamic Architecture Walk, Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal’s Muslim heritage is unique, shaped by the rule of Begums, powerful Muslim women who left an indelible mark on the city. The walk highlights lesser-known architectural gems and offers stories of progressive female leadership in a deeply traditional society. You can start with Moti Masjid (built by built in 1862 by Sikander Jahan Begum) and cover other sites like Taj-ul-Masajid (the biggest mosque in Asia), Shaukat Mahal (where Nawab Jahangir Mohammed stayed with his Begum Sikandar Jahan) and Chowk Bazaar.
Lucknow Nawabi Trail, Uttar Pradesh
The Nawabs of Awadh were tastemakers, architects and most importantly, patrons of tehzeeb (etiquette). This walk delves into the refined world of Shia Muslim culture in India, with stops at monumental structures like Bara Imambara, Rumi Darwaza and Teele Wali Masjid. You should also visit traditional perfumeries in the city that still bottle age-old fragrances followed by a trip to the city’s markets for kebabs with recipes that date back generations.
Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park Walk, Gujarat
As a heritage site, Champaner and Pavagadh are often talked about in a single breath. They are also collectively a UNESCO heritage site, located in Gujarat. When you reach here, Pavagadh, perched atop a volcanic hill, watches over the sprawling ruins of Champaner, a city that once burned bright as the capital of Gujarat. Start your journey at the Archaeological Park, where you’ll find a collection of historical structures like Jami Masjid dating from the 8th to 14th centuries, as well as the famous Kalika Mata temple. The blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles offers a unique glimpse into the region’s diverse past.
