HYDERABAD: Madhya Pradesh, housing many historical monuments from different eras, including the Gwalior Fort, Moti Mahal in Gwalior, Narwar Fort in Shivpuri district and Jahangir Mahal in Orchha, among many others, is a boon for history enthusiasts.
The historic Gwalior Fort, among the earliest of the lot, for which the foundation was laid in the sixth century, boasts 10-metre-high walls and is impressively adorned with sculptures, which makes it a visual architectural treat for all.
The light and sound show, similarly, at the Jahangir Mahal in Orchha, is a must-see, as it showcases the architectural beauty of Rajabir Singh Deo-1’s construction in 1605-1626. The show takes visitors through important historical incidents, including a narration of the story of Lala Harduala, who died after his sister-in-law poisoned his food.
The Narwar Fort, situated atop a 500-foot hill, is the backdrop against which the love story of Nala and Damayanti developed and was referred to in the Mahabharata. It offers a breathtaking view of the town, especially during sunrise.
At this fort, not only do the archaeological staff guide tourists, but also local leader Dr Manoj Maheshwari.
Reporters, on a familiarisation trip to Madhya Pradesh, were told that the directorate of archaeology, archives and museums has intensified their efforts to protect ancient monuments, which were damaged.
A line repeated by staffers at multiple forts was: “Urmila Shukla, commissioner, archaeology, archives & museums, has asked us to strictly preserve the historical significance of the monument while executing restoration works.”
Ashutosh Uparit, an archaeologist from the directorate, said that the concentration of lime mortar and other materials is taken into consideration while executing the restoration works and that preserving the historical significance is their utmost priority.
“Generally, people remember Rajasthan when they think about forts, but Madhya Pradesh is an unexplored jewel with centuries-old engineering marvels that even comply with the current age ‘Vaastu Shastra’ norms,” a second official from the directorate said.
