Indo Islamic Heritage
Nawab Mustafa Khan Shefta (1809?1869) was an influential Urdu poet and critic during the 19th century, known for his poetic talent and contributions to Urdu literature. He was a contemporary of the renowned poet Mirza Ghalib, and the two shared a similar literary environment in the Mughal court. Shefta?s pen name (Takhallus) was "Hasrati," under which he composed many of his poems. The Nearest Bus Stand - Nizamuddin Dargah, The Nearest Metro Station - Nizamuddin, Nearest Railway Station- Nizamuddin Railway Station Railway Station Nearest Airport- IGI
Nawab Mustafa Khan Shefta (1809?1869) was a prominent Urdu poet, critic, and a contemporary of the renowned poet Mirza Ghalib. His poetic pseudonym, or Takhallus, was Shefta, and he was also known by the name Hasrati. Born into a distinguished landowning family of Bangash Hindustani Pathans in Delhi, Shefta?s family had notable connections. His relatives included the Nawabs of Farrukhabad and the rebellious Walidad Khan of Barabasti. His father-in-law, General Ismail Beg Hamadani, was another significant figure in his life. Shefta?s family owned estates, such as the jagirs of Palwal in Gurgaon and Jehangirabad in Meerut, which added to his prominence in the region. Shefta?s early education was nurtured by renowned teachers, including Mian ji Maal Maal and Haji Mohammed Nur Naqshbandi, which laid the foundation for his intellectual growth. He began composing poetry in his teenage years, quickly gaining recognition in the literary circles of Delhi. He became an integral member of a distinguished group of poets, including Ghalib, Zauq, and Momin. Shefta and Ghalib shared a close bond, both as friends and patrons. Shefta supported Ghalib during challenging times, including helping him when Ghalib was imprisoned due to his association with Bahadur Shah Zafar during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. After the 1857 Rebellion, Shefta faced serious repercussions. Due to his connections with the Mughal court, particularly his close ties to Bahadur Shah Zafar, as well as his relationships with Walidad Khan and Ismail Beg, he was arrested by the British. The British authorities suspected him of being involved in the rebellion, leading to his imprisonment. Shefta was sentenced to seven years in prison, and his estates were seized. However, following an appeal, only half of his lands were returned to him. During his time in prison, his son, Nawab Ishaq Khan, later purchased the very prison in which Shefta was held. Ishaq Khan also inherited his father?s title and estates, and on the site of the prison, he built the family residence, Mustafa Castle, incorporating the original prison room into its design. Nawab Mustafa Khan Shefta passed away in 1869 at his residence in Kucha Chelaan, Delhi. He was laid to rest in his family?s graveyard near the Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah, a site of great spiritual significance. His legacy was carried forward by his son, Nawab Ishaq Khan, a prominent figure in the Aligarh movement, who played a crucial role in shaping modern Muslim thought. His grandson, Nawab Mohammad Ismail Khan, also made significant contributions as a politician and was a signatory to the first Indian Constitution, furthering the family?s legacy. Shefta?s family home, which included the Mustafa Castle, stands as a symbol of their historical significance. Within the Nizamuddin Dargah complex, a small yet remarkable arched pavilion, adorned with intricately cusped arches, is located, adding to the architectural beauty of the area. The arches, supported by ornate columns and pilasters, stand as a testament to the late Mughal architectural style. The chajja (overhanging roof) of the pavilion is held up by stone brackets, while the upper part of the structure is embellished with decorative mouldings. This pavilion remains a significant late Mughal addition to the Nizamuddin Dargah complex, marking an enduring legacy of Nawab Mustafa Khan Shefta and his family.
Year of Built: 18 - 19th Century
Address: Dargah Complex, Nizamuddin
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: Central Delhi
Pincode: 110013
Longitude: 77 14 30
Latitude: 28 35 30