Indo Islamic Heritage
Approach: Approximately 2.2 km northwest of Qutub Minar metro station and 650 m southwest of Mehrauli bus stand. Airport: Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport Railway Station: Nizamuddin Railway Station Bus Station: Mehrauli Bus Stand
Shaikh Shamsuddin was one of the most revered saints of the Sohrawardi sect and lived during the reign of Bahlol Lodi. His tomb, a significant heritage site, continues to be an important place of worship, where regular prayers and religious ceremonies are conducted. Architecturally, the tomb follows the Lodi style and is characterized by a square plan. The central structure is a 12-pillared chhatri, measuring approximately 7 square meters. The entrance to the tomb is located on the southern side, leading into a space crowned by a large, plastered dome. This hemispherical dome rests on an octagonal drum, a distinctive feature of the period. Atop the dome, there is a lotus cresting and a finial, enhancing its grandeur. Surrounding the structure is a chhajja (projecting eave), above which runs a frieze with a molded string course made of plaster. The parapet above is decorated with kangura battlements, adding to the fort-like appearance of the tomb. The underside of the dome showcases intricate ornamentation in incised plaster, a decorative technique commonly found in Islamic architecture. A small piece of marble, fixed into the northern side of the dome, contains a modern inscription. Within the tomb enclosure, there are six plastered graves, none of which bear inscriptions. The most prominent among them is the grave of the saint himself, enclosed within a marble boundary, signifying its importance. The materials used in the construction of the tomb reflect local craftsmanship. The pillars supporting the structure are made of locally sourced stone, providing stability and strength. The dome, on the other hand, is built of stone and finished with a layer of plaster, giving it a smooth and refined appearance. These materials and construction techniques highlight the architectural traditions of the Lodi period while preserving the sanctity and historical significance of the site.
Year of Built: 15th - 16th Century
Address: Approx.150 m to the west of Sohan Burj, Ward No-8, Mehrauli
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: South Delhi
Pincode: 110030
Longitude: 77 10 34
Latitude: 28 30 40