Feroz Shah Kotla Fort Delhi: Explore the Historic Ashoka Pillar and Jami Masjid

Rajkumari Sharma Tankha

Nestled between the New and Old Delhi, Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is a remarkable testament to Delhi’s rich medieval history. Built in 1354 by Feroz Shah Tughlaq, the Turkish Muslim ruler of the Tughlaq Dynasty, the fort was part of the city of Ferozabad, which he established as the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. During his reign, Ferozabad thrived with grand palaces, lush gardens, mosques, and madrasas enclosed within thick defensive walls.

Historical records reveal that Feroz Shah shifted the capital from Tughlaqabad to Ferozabad due to severe droughts in the former. The new location, by the mighty Yamuna River, offered abundant water — a stark contrast to the present-day perception of the river.

A Walk Through History: The Charm of Feroz Shah Kotla

Visiting Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is a treat for history enthusiasts. Despite over eight centuries of weathering and wear, the fort exudes a unique charm. Expansive green lawns, flanked by age-old trees, surround the fort, creating a serene and picturesque environment.

At the heart of the fort stands the 13-meter-high Ashoka Pillar, one of India’s most treasured historical monuments. Brought from Topra in Ambala, Haryana, on Feroz Shah’s orders, the pillar was so prized that he constructed a three-storey pyramidical structure around it for protection.

Transporting the pillar was no small feat. It was wrapped in silk, cotton, reeds, and raw skins to prevent damage, and moved using a 42-wheel carriage pulled by over 200 men to the banks of the Yamuna, from where it was loaded onto large boats.

The pillar, re-erected in 1356, originally featured eight-domed chhatris, stone lions at each corner, ornamental friezes in black and white stone, and a gilded copper cupola. Although these embellishments have weathered over time, the inscriptions in Brahmi, Pali, and Sanskrit remain visible, making the pillar a key historical landmark.

Exploring the Fort Complex

Beyond the Ashoka Pillar, the Feroz Shah Kotla Fort complex includes a circular baoli (step-well) and the famous Jami Masjid, a spiritual hub attracting devotees from all walks of life, especially on Thursdays. Visitors believe the mosque is haunted by benevolent djinns (genies) who fulfill wishes. Devotees often leave letters with their wishes inside the mosque and offer milk, grains, candles, and incense as gratitude once their wishes are granted.

“They fulfill the wishes of those who pray here. Many come for that,” says Fauzia Amin, a regular visitor, as she lights an agarbatti at the mosque.

The baoli, once open to the public, provided water for drinking and the surrounding gardens. Today, it is closed to visitors, preserving the heritage structure.

Cultural Significance

Historically, the fort also served as a venue for cultural performances when New Delhi lacked modern auditoriums. Legendary director Ebrahim Alkazi staged the iconic play Andha Yug here in 1964. Today, Feroz Shah Kotla hosts walking tours, photography sessions, guided tours, and community events such as Iftar gatherings, keeping its cultural legacy alive.

Visiting Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is more than a historical trip—it’s an immersive experience connecting the past and present, offering a glimpse into Delhi’s royal, spiritual, and cultural heritage.