2025-06-03 Tue

The Purana Qila, also referred to as the Old Fort or Pandavon Ka Qila, is situated in New Delhi and is recognized for its historical and archaeological significance. It is believed to be the possible location of the ANCIENT city of Indraprastha, as mentioned in the Mahabharata. The existing ramparts and structures were constructed by Sher Shah Suri following the demolition and remodeling of Dinpanah, a town established by Humayun in the 16th century.

The Fort is a remarkable example of Indo-Islamic architecture, characterized by its red sandstone walls and imposing gates. The site features structures such as the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque and Sher Mandal, both of which exemplify early Mughal design. The fort's walls ascend to a height of 18 meters and are complemented by three arched gateways: the Bara Darwaz, which faces west; the south gate, known as the Humayun Gate; and the Talaqi Gate, often referred to as the Forbidden Gate.

Excavations conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) have uncovered a cultural timeline extending from the Pre-Mauryan to the Mughal Period without interruption.

Initial excavations at Purana Qila took place between 1954 and 1955, led by B.B. Lal to explore its association with Indraprastha. This phase of excavation discovered Painted Grey Ware (PGW) but remained incomplete. Further excavations resumed later in 1969-70, revealing structures, pottery, and artifacts representative of various historical periods, including those of the Mauryan, sunga , Kushan, Gupta, Post-Gupta, Rajput, Sultanate, and Mughal periods.

Notable artifacts include terracotta beads and toys from the Mauryan Period, terracotta Yakshi figurine from the Sunga Period, a terracotta votive tank and copper coins from the Kushan Period, seals and coins from the Gupta Period, as well as beads crafted from coral, crystal, and carnelian. Additional significant finds consist of a small sandstone Vishnu image from the Rajput Period, glazed plates and coins from the Sultanate Period, Chinese porcelain with inscriptions, glass wine bottles, and a #GOLD earring from the Mughal Period, among others.

The ongoing excavations by ASI since 2023 have identified PGW dating back to 540 BCE; however, the excavation has yet to reach the deepest layers of the site.

Furthermore, Purana Qila has been commemorated on Indian postage stamps on two occasions. During the colonial era, the Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department issued stamps to celebrate the inauguration of New Delhi as the NEW capital, marking the transition of the government from #Calcutta. On 09 February 1931, the first commemorative stamp series of India in a set of 6 was released, featuring the Purana Qila, alongside a portrait of George V, with a face value of ¼ Anna. The second stamp was issued by India Post on 17 October 1987, in recognition of the India-89 #international Stamp Exhibition, which highlighted prominent landmarks of Delhi. Among the series, one stamp depicted the Purana Qila, carrying a face value of Rs 6.50.