The last time I had been to the Aga Khan Palace, a decade back, the drive there had felt like a long journey
beyond city limits, and the Palace grounds had seemed one with the green, desolate surroundings of Nagar Road. I visited it again recently, and this
time found the same road bustling with vehicles covering every inch of its
recently widened roads, and the refreshing greenery replaced by gaudy colours
of shopping malls and hotels. There was dust and smoke and noise, but the moment
I entered the simple arched gate of the Palace, I found the same serene piece
of preserved history.
The Palace grounds looked
immaculately maintained, and the lawns manicured and watered. A wide, winding
concrete path led to the Palace, and after paying the usual 5 Rs entry fee that
is charged for all ticketed monuments, I entered its corridors.
The Aga Khan Palace,
built by Imam Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan III in 1892, is a beautiful example
of 19th century architecture. It was built as an act of charity - to generate
employment and help the famine-struck population in the neighbouring areas.
The Palace, however,
derives its importance from being associated with India's freedom struggle.
Following the launch of the Quit India Movement, Gandhiji was arrested in
Bombay and brought to the Aga Khan Palace on 9th August, 1942, and imprisoned
here for 21 months, along with his wife Kasturba and secretary Mahadevbhai
Desai. Gandhiji was released on 6th May 1944. His wife and secretary passed
away during their confinement at the Palace. Imam Sultan Shah Karim Aga Khan IV
eventually donated the Aga Khan Palace to the Indians in 1969, in honour of
Gandhiji and his philosophy. The Palace is, thereby, also known as the Gandhi
National Memorial.
The samadhis of Mahadevbhai Desai and
Kasturba are located within a low-walled area in the Palace grounds while
Gandhiji's memorial stands a short distance away. A small shop selling khadi
and handloom articles, also occupies a small corner of the grounds.
The Palace preserves 2
years of Gandhiji's life within its walls, through the articles he used, the
letters he wrote and the table he had his meals at. Photographs, pictures and
statues depict important events of those times. Visitors are not allowed entry
into the room where Kasturba Gandhi breathed her last.
It didn’t take more than
an hour to walk around the Palace and view all the treasures within its
boundaries, but the feeling of humility, and gratitude towards all the people
who have fought for our freedom continues to linger, long after leaving it
behind.
I remember going to Aga Khan Palace on a school trip and everyone got bored then... But there was a certain serenity that held my interest... And I shall never forget that feeling...
ReplyDelete:)
yes, the palace grounds are tranquil. i liked the flag most of all, out there. :)
DeleteI happened to visit the place once--and it's been on my mind since...there's something wonderful about the trees there---they almost shade history from the grime of the city:)
ReplyDeleteAm glad you were able to make a trip!
'almost shade history from the grime of the city.' that sounds so poetic!! very apt too!!
DeleteIts a lovely and wonderful place. I feel they could do a better job of preserving and showcasing the place.
ReplyDeletehistory should be preserved, and preserved well! but at least this is in better condition than some monuments around the country.
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