Doshi Dhwani Kaushal

4130-D

Walled city of Ahmedabad became India’s first world heritage city in 2017 and still its heritage is in such a poor state. One such example is Raja no Hajiro , the mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Badshah built in the 15th century is believed to be as old as the walled city of Ahmedabad. It is more than just a piece of heritage as it holds a great religious and cultural importance. But present scenario is such that laaris and parked vehicles have blocked the access to the monument. Goats have occupied the niches and plinths where they defecate there which makes it undesirable for people. Residents of the neighborhood have invaded the space around the monument by illegally extending , encroaching the space and using it for storage purpose which has lead to congestion. Daily chores of the squatters residing inside the monument have unknowingly degraded the monument. Taking care of the present condition , the idea is revive the tomb space and around it through different spatial strategies which can improve the accessibility and create a positive space around and inside the tomb. One of the possible solution is to use the derelict houses and surgically intervene to introduce different programs to promote more public activities which would make the tomb space more accessible. Not to forget about the residents of the neighborhood , providing them with a well defined open space by receding it from the tomb and clearing up the center so that the importance of the tomb is highlighted while providing its residents with a dignified housing facility in the same vicinity.