Twilight Tales: The Final Days of the Mughals

Walk Led By: Ashwitha Jayakumar and Nikhil Gulati 

About the Walk:

Join us for a captivating sunset walk at Safdarjung's Tomb, one of the last Mughal garden tombs ever built, symbolizing the end of an empire. This heritage walk, led by Ashwitha Jayakumar and Nikhil Gulati, will unravel the bloody history of the later Mughals, during whose reign chaos reigned at court, with rivals jostling for power and influence, and noblemen pulling the strings of puppet emperors.

As twilight descends, we will explore the turbulent final years of the Mughal empire, delving into the lives of the men and women who endured the empire’s decline. The walk includes a short tour around the tomb, followed by a baithak—a traditional gathering—where we’ll sit and share stories about the later Mughals, including the year of four emperors, Muhammad Shah Rangila, Alamgir II, and Shah Alam II, culminating with Akbar Shah II and Bahadur Shah II.

Takeaways:

• Historical Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of the chaotic and often bloody final years of the Mughal empire.
• Cultural Appreciation: Appreciate the architectural and cultural significance of Safdarjung's Tomb.
• Interactive Storytelling: Participate in an engaging baithak to share and listen to stories about the later Mughal emperors and their times.

About Qissa Go:

Ashwitha Jayakumar, a gifted historian and storyteller, crafts engaging narratives that bring history alive. Her works, including The Book of Emperors, invite readers on a journey through time, making complex histories accessible and captivating.

Nikhil Gulati, a talented artist and writer, breathes life into the stories of the past with his vivid illustrations and evocative prose. His work blends historical accuracy with creative flair, making history both informative and enchanting.

Recommendations and Instructions for Participants

• Participants will receive detailed information about the walk via email one day before the event.
• Additional Tickets for the monument, an ASI ticketed site requiring government ID, must be purchased through the ASI website. ( https://asi.payumoney.com/ )​
• Comfortable walking shoes and attire suited to the weather are advised.
• It is recommended to bring a water bottle to ensure hydration during the walk.
• Carrying an umbrella, a hat, or sunglasses is suggested for protection against weather conditions.
• Please arrive at the starting point 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.