Kos Minars lie in ruins, face threat
The Kos Minars built by Emperor Akbar on the highway from Agra to Ajmer are struggling to retain their glory and existence. Rapid urbanisation resulted in encroachment upon the tall mile stones. A group of residents in Jaipur took legal course for preservation of the Kos Minars.
The state government assured that the Kos Minar will be protected. There is no question of neglecting the historical monuments, says Rajasthan art and culture minister Bina Kak.
‘I drew attention to the sorry state of Kos Minars, says Mohammed Aslam Khan, who filed a PIL before the Rajasthan high court.
The archaeological department had listed over four dozen Kos Minars. but only half a dozen are marked as protected monuments while the rest are described as important.
“We are seeking protection and preservation of all minars. The administration should ensure their proper maintenance, says Ram Kapil, advocate for Mr Khan. Since one Kos Minar is located in the walled city, the state government directed the local self government to protect it and remove encroachments.
Former chief secretary Salauddin Ahmed said the Kos Minar were built at every Kos. “The Kos Minars were markers on the highway for travellers, traders and devotees. They were not only simply markers, but also had a well and inn for travellers,” Mr Ahmed said.
Emperor Akbar was a frequent visitor to the Ajmer shrine. “He was devotee of mystic saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishty. He travelled on foot from Agra to Ajmer when he was blessed with a son, says Syed Kalimuddin, vice president of Anjuman, a body representing the Khadims in Ajmer.
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