Episode-1 World Heritage Monuments in Sunder Nursery
Six of the eleven Mughal era structures that stand within Sunder Nursery are of national significance: Sunder Burj, Sunder Wala Mahal, Lakkar Wala Burj, Mira Muzaffar Hussain’s tomb, Chota Batashewala Mahal and Unknown Mughal tomb, which as per the 2016 revision by UNESCO are a part of Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site complex.
Sunder Burj
This a 16th-century Mughal tomb is known for its unique star-shaped patterns on the ceiling and intricate inscriptions on the walls. Originally part of a walled complex, it is now a part of the Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site. This mausoleum is unique among monuments in Delhi on account of the ornamental tomb chamber comprising of intricate incised plaster work, a band of inscriptions and the exquisite geometric star patterns on the domed ceiling
Sunder Wala Mahal
This 16th century Mughal tomb is a square structure comprising of an underground crypt surrounded by eight chambers representing the Hasht Bihist or the eight spaces of Quranic paradise. The corners are also chamfered to create an eight-sided irregular octagon. Subtle muqarnar and niches adorn the half-domed arcade on each of the four facades.
Lakkar Wala Burj
Built atop a high arcaded plinth, this 16th century Mughal tomb is a lofty mausoleum entered through lofty arches in each of its four facades. A vaulted chamber was built abutting the western archway in the Mughal era itself possibly to serve as residence for a caretaker. The monument is profusely ornamented with exquisite incised plasterwork on both the exterior and interior surfaces. Polychrome geometric patterns, muqarnas and calligraphic verses embellish the interior of the tomb.
Mira Muzaffar Hussain’s tomb
This garden tomb of Akbar’s son in law (1603 CE) is a rare plan comprising eight chambers surrounding the central crypt thus resembling Hasht Bihist or the eight spaces of Quranic paradise. The structure is symmetrical and has profusely ornamental interiors with painted incised plaster patterns. Ornamental muqarnas and tile work are also seen on the façade.
Unknown Mughal Tomb
This 16th century Mughal tomb has aarchitectural elements such as the parapet, neck of the dome and the principal southern façade as well as the interiors profusely ornamented with painted incised plaster work.
Chota Batashewala Mahal
Within the enclosed garden and standing just east of the Mirza’s tomb, are the remnants of an octagonal building. It is said to have been profusely ornamented and known as Chota Batashewala. Described in the 20th century texts as “…standing on a platform some 3 feet high. It consisted of a central octagonal chamber, with a surrounding arcade containing an arched opening on each of the eight sides. The central apartment was provided with four doorways, three of which were closed by stone Jaali screens. The domed ceiling of the central chamber, as well as the walls inside, is ornamented by floral and geometrical patterns intermingled with Quranic inscriptions in incised plaster”.
The nursery can be reached by the Violet Metro line - Jawaharlal Nehru stadium. U can take a cab or auto from there. Buses and auto rickshaws ply regularly to the nursery. If you are coming by your own car there is ample parking space available
The place tends to get crowded during the day and hence is best visited during early mornings. Clean well maintaine dwashrooms are there. Carnatic cafe is excellent eating joint here
