As Ahmedabad turns 614 years old on Wednesday, the city’s rich cultural and historical significance is ready to be rediscovered and celebrated. Known colloquially as Amdavad, the city’s heritage, intertwined with myths and stories, paints a fascinating picture of its past, which is often overshadowed by its rise as the tech and employment capital of Gujarat.
Ahmedabad, having earned the title of India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017, is a blend of old-world charm and modern-day innovation, where ancient stories continue to shape its identity.
One of the most captivating symbols of Ahmedabad’s enduring legacy is the Akhand Jyot (Eternal Lamp), which has been burning for over 600 years. Situated in the iconic Teen Darwaza, this sacred flame is a testament to the Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb (the coexistence of Hindu and Muslim cultures). The lamp was lit at the foundation of the city, which Sultan Ahmed Shah Badshah established on February 26, 1411.
Legend has it that the eternal flame is deeply linked to the city’s prosperity, stemming from a fascinating folklore involving Khwaja Siddiqui, a guard at Teen Darwaza during Sultan Ahmed Shah’s reign.
According to the tale, Siddiqui encountered a divine woman, believed to be Goddess Laxmi, leaving the city. Concerned that the goddess’ departure would signal the end of Ahmedabad’s fortune, the guard stopped her and secured her promise to stay until the Sultan’s return, sacrificing his life in the process. As a mark of gratitude, Goddess Laxmi is said to have remained in the city. This mythical tale is immortalised by the Hazrat Shahid Sidi Badshah Ni Dargah, a green-coloured tomb near Bhadra Fort, believed to be that of Siddiqui.
An imprint of Goddess Laxmi’s hand on one of Bhadra Fort’s gates further solidifies the belief in the folklore. The goddess’s statue can also be found in a garden opposite the fort.
Another fascinating story involves the construction of Ahmedabad’s city walls. The Sultan faced a daunting challenge when the walls mysteriously collapsed every night during construction. The culprit was none other than Manek Baba, a revered yogi and saint of Ahmedabad, who had mystical powers. It was only after Badshah’s inquiry that he discovered Manek Baba was using his powers to dismantle the walls each night.
However, when the saint was asked to ensure the city’s completion, he agreed and was honoured by the Sultan with the naming of Manek Chowk, the central square of the city, in his memory. Manek Burj, a remnant of the old city wall near Ellisbridge, is said to protect Ahmedabad from destruction.
The city’s old walled areas, home to more than 200 narrow lanes or pols, continue to preserve its ancient charm. These lanes are lined with houses dating back 400 years.
The ‘Muhurat ni Pol’, the first pol of Ahmedabad, is still standing strong. Within these pols, which cover an area of 5.78 square kilometres, reside Amdavadis in homes that reflect both the era they were built in and the ingenuity of their designs, particularly when it comes to regulating temperature. The homes’ designs naturally provide comfort, especially during the scorching summer heat that sees temperatures rise to 45°C.
A study conducted by CEPT University highlights the unique architectural design of homes within the pols, showcasing how the city’s design responded to the needs of its inhabitants over the centuries.
The heart of Ahmedabad pulses with the stories of its past, tales that are still celebrated today.
One such popular folklore, “Jab kutte pe sassa aaya, tab Badshah ne shaher basaya.” (While camping on the banks of the Sabarmati River, Sultan Ahmed Shah saw a rabbit chasing a dog. Impressed by the bravery of the rabbit, he decided to establish Ahmedabad as his capital city). This charming tale of a rabbit’s courage continues to be a cherished part of the city’s identity.
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