Ahmedabad there is in existence a Sarkhej Roza, the History, Building and heritage of the Acropolis of Ahmedabad.
Front view of Sarkhej Roza sourced from Wikipedia
Introduction
Sarkhej Roza, the place, which is close to Ahmedabad in Gujarat is the unique instance of the Indian Islamic architecture. It is a group of architecture that contains the mosque, a mausoleum of a Sufi saint, a palace, and a big tank. The structure was a hub of sufi education, spiritual culture and royal culture in the Gujarat Sultanate era and had been constructed way back in 15th century. The complex, bearing the remembrance of Sufi saint Sheikh Ahmad Khattoo Ganj Baksh, still has the name of Acropolis of Ahmedabad that is a mixture of excellent blend of religious heritage and cultural heritage. |
| "The gallery that opens into the Tombs of the Queens" (15th century), according to Wikipedia |
Location
Sarkhej Roza in the Indian state of Gujarat (south-western region of the city of Ahmedabad, Sarkhej village). This ancient architectural compound is located in the neighboring area of a huge synthetic reservoir, so much farther 8 km farthest, rather than on the banks of the Betwa River, which is only some distance near the city center. It is now one of the most well-visited historical and tourist sites in Ahmedabad wherein local and foreigners visit to see the magnificence of Sufi ways, Islamic architecture and the reign of the Gujraland Sultanate.
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| Tank outlet, 1855 photo source Wikipedia |
History
Jumma Roza has close historical relation with the life of the Sufi saint Sheikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Baksh, and political history of the Gujarat Sultanate. He was also the spiritual master of the (then) Sultan Ahmad Shah, and among the most influential saints in disseminate Sufi philosophy in the Gujrat region. A memorial tomb was constructed in his honour after his demise in 1445. It is on this mausoleum that the Sargentj Roza complex was constructed subsequently. The mosque is constructed under the rule of Muhammad Shah II that was at that time the biggest mosque in Gujarat. Muhammad Begada (1459-1511 AD), succeeded and built the complex. He constructed palaces, arenas, pavilions and very big reservoirs. There are also his own tomb in this roza. Sarmatj Roza was a hub of not only religious activities, but also royal affairs, and social and art and cultural activities, during Sultanate period. The mosque Sarangaj Rojar mosque was formerly the most sizeable mosque in Gujarat. Within the mosque, one can find a lot of pillars, arches, and carved pieces of stone. Even though it has a flat roof, the jaali-cut windows and gorgeous dome make it to appear different. Tomb Here is the tomb of Sufi saint Sheikh Ahmad Khattoo Ganj Bakhsh. The dome, the verandah and the sculpted stone work of the tomb are highly artistic. Other tombs included in the complex include Sultan Muhammad Begad and relatives. The lake / tank A large artificial reservoir is one of the main elements of the Zabergaz Roza. It served as a source of water, and was also used at the royal level of entertainment and partaking. The reservoir has been gone round with palace plan designs, pavilions and staircases. The Palace and the Court The palaces constructed on behalf of the royal family feature open balconies, pillar rooms and big courtyards. The fine carveries, jalis and the outdoor seating of the palaces were influenced by ancient plant forms of Rajput art. The combination of styles. The whole complex is filled with a combination of pillars, posts, and carvings of Hindu- Rajput art mixed with Islamic domes, arches and Jaalis. In this distinctiveness of combination the Sangat Roza becomes as it were the Acropolis of Ahmedabad.
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| Plan of Sarkhej Roza sources Wikipedia |
How to get there
By Road
The road network in Gujarat is among the well developed roads in India. All major cities and towns are well linked with Ahmedabad, which can be done through road.State and private buses are also perfect means to travel around the small part of the state.
By Train
Large Indian cities are united too as the Ahmedabad railway station that falls on the western railways system. Its primary transport station is found in the area of Kalupur. This station belongs to the large national railway system and this is linked to every major Indiancity. The first Bullet train in India will be between Mumbai and Ahmedabad in December 2023. It will finish the distance in 3hours at speed of 320kmph.
By Air
In Ahmedabad, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport links all the major cities in India and major cities in other countries with the state.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Sarkhej Roza is not more than a religious building, and the depiction of the history of Gujarat, architecture and spirituality. Located in and around the tomb of a Sufi saint named Sheikh Ahmad Khattu Ganj Bakhsh, the architectural complex includes a mosque, mausoleum, palace and a large water tank - evoking symbolism of all the richness and industrial splendour of the medieval Gujarat Sultanate. It is constructed mixing both Islamic and Rajput forms of arts and the complex remains achievable even up to date. The allure of its majesty, its beauty, and spiritual moodiasms are viewed by all - by researchers and by ordinary tourists who love history, by researchers and by those who simply like to sightsee. Thus, Sarkhej Roza is not only some historical site, but it is the priceless precious gem on the cultural heritage of India.
