Hidden amongst the bustling streets of Delhi stands the Sabz Burj. Its story begins in the 1530s. This octagonal mausoleum is one of the earliest Mughal structures in India. It predates even the magnificent Humayun’s Tomb.
The Sabz Burj’s name translates to “Green Tower”. This refers to the original green glazed tiles. These adorned its drum onion dome and finial. Sadly most of these tiles had fallen off by the 1980s. The Archaeological Survey of India replaced them with blue tiles. These have since been removed during a recent restoration. The mausoleum is also known as “Neeli Chattri” or “Blue Umbrella”.
The identity of the builder and the person buried within remain a mystery. However its opulent ceiling painted with pure gold and lapis lazuli is unique. It is considered the earliest painted ceiling of any Mughal structure in India. No similar example survives anywhere in the world. This stunning ceiling along with the building’s location near the shrine of Sufi saint Hazrat Nizamuddin suggests a person of significant importance is buried there. Maybe a close aide to a Mughal ruler or even a royal. Mughal historian Ebba Koch believes Humayun built it for his mother Maham Begum.
Originally the Sabz Burj stood in an enclosed garden. Today it sits on a traffic island. It was even used as a police station in the early 20th century. This unfortunately damaged the painted interiors. Faulty repairs in the 1980s caused further damage.
Between 2018 and 2021 the Sabz Burj underwent a major restoration. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India collaborated on this project. Havells India provided funding. The restoration was meticulous. They removed cement plaster terracotta tiles and iron grills. These were all 20th-century additions. They replaced them with glazed quartz tiles closely matching the 16th-century originals. They also used traditional lime mortar and hand tools. Master craftsmen revived traditional techniques.
The rediscovery of the painted ceiling was a surprise. It took three years of scientific cleaning to reveal the artwork. The restoration ensured the ceiling was visible again. It also prevented further damage from rainwater. The Sabz Burj is now an ASI protected monument. It is a testament to the beauty and resilience of Mughal architecture. It stands as a captivating example of early Mughal architecture. The building showcases influences from Timurid architecture of Central Asia. It is a symbol of a rich and complex history. The Sabz Burj truly is a hidden gem in the heart of Delhi.