Constructed by Shah Jahan and widely known as Baudi Kuyee or Zani Chor ki Gufa, the historic stepwell in Meham, now wears a deserted look due to lack of maintenance and care by the archeology department.
Located at the outskirt of Meham town of Rohtak district, the stepwell is spread over one acre and has two deep wells, with about 100 steps. But, not a single notice board has been installed by the concerned department to make the visitors aware of the historic importance of this monument.
Even the caretaker Balbeer Sharma didn't know much about the rich heritage of the place. "We don’t have any official record about it, but as per the information available Shahjahan had built it in 1656, but Zani Chor, who was said to have divine powers had taken possession of it”, he said adding, “It is said that after committing thefts in nearby region, he (Zani Chor) used to hide here for several days.”
Though, nothing has been done in the name of maintenance, but the construction of the stepwell is still an example of unique architecture of Mughal era. There are about 100 steps to go down to the mound but now wells are filled with dirty water and also mud has covered the history of this place.
{{/usCountry}}Though, nothing has been done in the name of maintenance, but the construction of the stepwell is still an example of unique architecture of Mughal era. There are about 100 steps to go down to the mound but now wells are filled with dirty water and also mud has covered the history of this place.
{{/usCountry}}Another caretaker Ashok said that any kind of construction is banned within a 300m radius of this historic place but a ice factory has recently been created opposite the stepwell which welcomes commuters with a foul smell.
Moreover, about 200 meteres away there are two tombs of Hazrat Shah Muhammad Ramzan Mahami and Hazrat Shah Ghulam Hussain Mahami (Takht Walay). But even this tomb is in bad shape and people are using it to store cattle feed. A local family has constructed their house near the tomb and taken possession of the land.