Agrasen Ki Baoli, Delhi

Also referred to as Agar Sain Ki Baoli or Ugrasen ki Baoli, this attraction is a historical monument situated on the Halley Road in New Delhi. A mosaic of different assortment of stones and rocks, Agrasen ki Baoli, is an ancient water reservoir that rises from the depths of the earth to stand atop 103 stone steps. Hidden amidst the business towers and residential apartments of central Delhi, this place is a quiet and serene experience perfect for photography lovers.

The old brick walls of the structure take you back in history, and as you go down the steps, a drop in temperature can be experienced. Agrasen ki Baoli is a protected monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 of the Archaeological Survey of India.

The structure of Agrasen Ki Baoli occupies a width of 15 meters and is 60 meters long which is quite impressive because it is believed to have been built somewhere around the time of Mahabharata. The reservoir still serves its ancient purpose as the lower parts of the baoli can be seen submerged in water on some occasions. There is a mosque located on its South-Western Side which stands on four pillars with a heavy stone on the roof. Interestingly, this site is famous for being haunted, and visitors have claimed to feel a strange presence here quite often.

History

The Agrasen Ki Baoli has been connected with some past historical significances. It has been associated with many powerful civilizations and kingdoms. This age-old water reservoir has been shrouded in mystery. As per the beliefs, King Agrasen had built it in the Mahabharata era.

It is also said to have been renovated in the 14th century by Aggarwal's. The Agrasen Ki Baoli happened to be one of the important places for the ancient community. It used to be a meeting point for the women as they used to spend time around the place in the summer days to beat the scorching heat.

The Agrasen Ki Baoli has also been used for celebrating many rituals and religious ceremonies. This community-building served some other purposes apart from being a mere water reservoir.

Architecture

The Agrasen Ki Baoli is considered to be one of its kind architecture that dates back to the time of Mahabharata. The architecture of this water reservoir is considered to be very futuristic. The structure of the place is completely different from any other water reservoir built across the country.

In the monsoon season, the level of water in the Baoli rises to about 4-5 meters above the earth and remains completely dry for the rest of the year. The Agrasen Ki Baoli was not constructed in a round shape as any other traditional Baoli in India. However, it was built over a series of 108 steps that slopes into the earth and was constructed over three floors. People used to spend leisurely time on each of the floors and the floors were decorated with intricate stone carvings. Moreover, the stone carvings were made in complete symmetry with each other.

It is believed that this water reservoir has also undergone several renovations in between. This is evident from the Tughlaq style of architecture and the Aggarwal style of architecture. The architecture of this place is said to be progressive as it was not only built to serve the purpose of a water reservoir but also to be a popular place for rituals and community meets.
When you come over to this place, you may not find huge architectural marvels in the present time, however, you will certainly like the covered wall, a small mosque, and arched alcoves in the complex. This place is worth paying a visit.