Local Boy’s Daily Adventures at Delhi’s Historic Tomb

In Hauz Khas Village, Shourya, a fifth-grade student, enjoys a unique childhood experience playing daily at the tomb of Emperor Feroze Shah Tughlaq, a significant historical monument in Delhi. This fourteenth-century site attracts visitors from around the globe, yet for Shourya, it is not merely a tourist destination but an integral part of his life and heritage.

A Life Intertwined with History

Born eleven years ago into a family that has resided in this vibrant neighborhood for generations, Shourya’s home directly overlooks the monument. He lives with his grandparents and parents, as well as a dog known for its imposing presence. “Every day I go to the gumbad to play on the lawn,” Shourya remarks, using the local term for the dome of the tomb.

The living room features a large window that frames the monument, bringing it into Shourya’s daily life. Although the site requires a ticket for entry, local residents like Shourya can visit freely. He often gathers with friends, Angad and Arjun, to play badminton on the expansive grounds of the historic site.

Generational Connections to the Monument

Shourya’s grandmother shares fond memories of taking him to the monument grounds when he was a baby. “I would feed the stray dogs that loiter inside,” she explains. This tradition continues, and Shourya now knows every dog within the area. His grandmother also recalls that he took his first steps on the monument’s lawn. “Wahin par isne chalna seekha,” she says, highlighting the significance of the site in his early development.

As a fifth grader, Shourya excels in Social Studies, which includes elements of history. His understanding of the gumbad is currently limited to the knowledge that it houses the grave of a “raja.” When his grandfather joins the conversation, he reminisces about his own childhood, saying, “When I was a child, I used to believe that every house in Delhi must face a monument.” Shourya listens intently, appreciating the connection between his family’s history and the landmark.

Shourya also participates in school projects that encourage him to engage with his surroundings. Recently, he planted a papaya sapling within the monument complex, further deepening his ties to this historic site.

As Shourya grows, his daily adventures at the tomb of Emperor Feroze Shah Tughlaq continue to shape his understanding of his heritage and history. His story is a reminder of the profound connections individuals can have with their cultural landmarks, enriching the lives of those who inhabit the spaces around them.

“Every day I go to the gumbad to play on the lawn.” – Shourya

This article was written by Mayank Austen Soofi, a writer dedicated to capturing the essence of Delhi and its vibrant culture.