Slightly to the north of Dargah Qutb Sahib and just outside the inhabited precincts of Mehrauli, where the no- man’s land of ruins between Mehrauli and the bypass begin, two lovely baolis (stepped wells once used as summer retreats) exist. As one comes out of the main gate of Dargah Qutb Sahib, the first baoli encountered is Gandhak ki Baoli- gandhak because its waters are reputed to contain sulphur. However, the baoli remains a spectacular sight, like all the best baoli, creates in its enclosed space the impression of a promised land.
Gandhak ki Baoli was probably built during the reign of Iltumish AD 1211 -36 and is amongst the earliest surviving constructions in Delhi of the Sultanate period. The baoli has five tiers, and circular well at its southern end. Guide books refer to local villagers diving into the well to amuse visitors, but the baoli currently seems to be seldom frequented and the divers have practically disappeared.
Some 100 meters south of Gandhak ki Baoli, a more elaborate and spacious baoli called Rajon ki Bain exists. It was built in AD 1516 by Daulat Khan, a noble in Sikander lodhi’s regin; the area around the spring was once reputed to have been occupied by stone –masons (raj) – hence the name of the baoli.
Leave Your Comments