Ghalib’s tomb getting historic makeover

In what could be an apt tribute to Delhi’s poetic icon Mirza Ghalib, his tomb – Mazar-e-Ghalib –in Nizamuddin, would soon reverberate with qawwalis, mushairas and mehfils.

In what could be an apt tribute to Delhi’s poetic icon Mirza Ghalib, his tomb – Mazar-e-Ghalib –in Nizamuddin, would soon reverberate with qawwalis, mushairas and mehfils.

HT Image

This would be possible thanks to the redevelopment work carried out by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture at the Survey of India (ASI)-protected monument.

The tomb, which was lying in a sad state earlier, has undergone a sea change.

A hand-carved stone lattice screens separate the premises from the narrow street brimming with locals, vendors and beggars.

Neighbouring Mughal era Chausath Khamba, also an ASI-protected monument, too has been renovated as part of the project, that commenced early 2009.

Vice President Hamid Ansari visited the mazar on Tuesday with his wife Salma and offered floral tributes at the poet’s tomb. He also took a stroll around the Chausath Khamba monument.

Aga Khan Foundation’s Dr Abad Ahmed while taking the guest around the premised told him about the cultural revival of the area.

“For a small gathering, the area in front of the mazar can be used while for a bigger event, the courtyard of the Chausath Khamba can be utilised,” he said adding, the modalities would be worked out with the ASI.

“It is a remarkable initiative. I remember the first meeting of the Trust, when the project was conceived. I am glad things have turned out so well. It is keeping in line with Aga Khan Trust’s efforts,” Ansari said.

ASI Director General Dr Gautam Sengupta and Chief Information Commissioner Wajahat Habibullah and were present on the occasion.

Education Initiative

The Municipal Corporation Co-Education Pratibha Vidyalaya, Nizamuddin (W) was readying for a visit by Vice President Hamid Ansari and his wife Salma.

Ansari visited classes and interacted with students, teachers and parents from the locality.

The school has seen a complete makeover, not just in physical infrastructure but also in the quality of education imparted by the municipal teachers as part of the ‘Building Renovation and Education Initiative’ project under Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti Urban Renewal Initiative, by the Aga Khan Development network.

“The efforts have led to an over 50 per cent increase in enrolment within one year; 425 girls and boys from the basti are now attending the school,” NGO officials said.