Shahi Hammam is a Mughal-era bathhouse located in Chipitola, Agra, constructed by Alivardi Khan in 1620. Once part of a larger inn complex, the hammam served not only as a bathing facility but also as a cultural and social center.
Architecture
The Shahi Hammam is a 16th-century Mughal-era bathhouse constructed using Lahore bricks and red sandstone.The hammam features Turkish architectural style, characterised by its design and intricate details. Located near Agra Fort, the structure reflects the grandeur of Mughal architecture and serves as a testament to the cultural and social practices of the time.
In books
It is mentioned in historical texts, including "The Traveller Guide to Agra" by Satya Chandra Mukherjee and "Historical and Descriptive Agra" by Syed Mohd Lateef.
Social movements
In 2024, heritage enthusiasts started advocating for the preservation of the Shahi Hammam, citing concerns that its loss would mark the fourth such structure of historical significance to be lost in the area. Despite its cultural value and unique Persian architectural features, the site is not listed among the protected heritage sites by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
References
- "आगरा में 16वीं शताब्दी के शाही हमाम को कहा- अलविदा:अहाते में रहते हैं 40 परिवार, रोने लगीं महिलाएं, बोलीं- हमारा घर बचा लो". Dainik Bhaskar. 25 December 2024.
- ^ Chaturvedi, Hemendra (25 December 2024). "Citizens take out walk to save Agra's 'Shahi Hammam'". Hindustan Times.
- Bharat, E. T. V. (2024-12-26). "400 साल पुराना मुगल बादशाह जहांगीर का हमाम चर्चा में क्यों? जानिए इसका इतिहास". ETV Bharat News (in Hindi). Retrieved 2024-12-26.