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Built by the liberal thinker son of Shah Jahan, Dara Shikoh this heritage building and museum of civil lines is named after him. There is a long and varied history behind this building, which has been a witness to the undulating and changing times of India's history. This building has also served as the residence of the Mughul Viceroy of Punjab, Ali Mardan Khan. After Dara Shikoh was killed by his brother Aurangazeb in 1659 . all his property including this property of library went through several hands.
The British took over and there was another dimension added to the history of the Dara Shikoh Library. It became the first residency of a British in India, owned by Sir Orchoterlony. It also housed a school and a government college from 1804 to 1904.
During 1857, the building of Dara Shikoh Library was extremely damaged and all the books were robbed. Sir Orchoterlony took up the task of preserving the history of Dara Shikoh Library and renovated the building by adding pillars and balconies.
An interesting discovery was made at the site of Dara Shikoh Library when the original Mughul structure of red sand stone, arches and pillars were exposed under the debris and stairs.
The Dara Shikoh Library has now become the museum for archeology, belonging to the Delhi Administration.
Indiaprofile offers information on the Dara Shikoh Library. To book a tour and for more detailed information, please submit your queries in the form below.
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