2015-06-12

Agrasen ki Baoli, New Delhi

Agrasen Ki Baoli, Jantar Mantar, New Delhi, India, on Hailey Road, close to Connaught Place. The Archaeological Survey of India has designated this monument as a protected monument. 'Baoli' can be used to refer to a stepwell. It is believed that it was built by Maharaja Agrasen in the Mahabharata epic era. This is almost more than 5000 years ago. However, there are no historical records to support this legend. In the 14th century, the Agrawal community rebuilt it.

Agrasen Ki Baoli

The stepwell measures 60 metres in length and 15 metres wide. It is ancient and made up of arches that are superimposed on columns or piers. The steps lead to the base, which once held water. It has 108 steps. The Baoli's red stone walls are arranged in a series of arched structures.

Baoli used to have water until recently, but it is now dry, and you can see the bottom of its reservoir full of feathers and droppings. The Baoli is known for its pigeons, bats, and dry reservoir. You will see birds and "love birds" everywhere you go. It is quiet and cool in the middle of the capital. As one descends the stairs, the silence grows deeper, and the spectacular view of Delhi's skyline fades. This is why it is known as one of the most haunted and spooky places in Delhi. This place is creepy because of the gradual rise in the gurgling sound from pigeons and the squeaky chattering bats echoing off the stone walls.

Ancient stepwell in Delhi

Baoli is astonished by the babble about being followed or seen by an invisible entity. The intensity of this conversation increases when you speed up. For a long time, there have been rumours about evil spirits living in this ancient architecture. According to legends, the Baoli used to be filled with blackwater, which attracted many depressed, discouraged, and disheartened admirers. People were hypnotised to death by the lure of the mystic waters, which drew them to the water. The "Baoli of the Unseen" used to summon people to sacrifice their lives to raise its water levels.

First Photo credit: Karan Kapoor