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. It was 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 had grand palaces, lush gardens, mosques, and madrasas enclosed within thick walls.

Historical records reveal that Feroz Shah shifted the capital from Tughlaqabad to Ferozabad due to severe droughts. The new location, by the mighty Yamuna River, offered abundant water. This was 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 wear and tear, the fort exudes a unique charm. Expansive green lawns, flanked by age-old trees, surround the fort. This creates a serene and picturesque environment.

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

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

The pillar, re-erected in 1356, originally featured eight-domed chhatris. The chhatris are stone lions at each corner, ornamental friezes in black and white stone, and have a gilded copper cupola. These embellishments have weathered over time. But, the inscriptions in Brahmi, Pali, and Sanskrit remain visible. This makes 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 benevolent djinns (genies) haunt the mosque and fulfill wishes. Devotees often leave letters with their wishes inside the mosque and offer milk, grains, candles, and incense as gratitude once the djinns grant their wishes.

“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. Iftar gatherings and other such keeps its cultural legacy alive.

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