Standing tall at the center of Old Amdavad, Teen Darwaza is a stunning piece of history. Erected during the reign of Sultan Nasir-ud-din Ahmed Shah, who ruled from 1411 to 1442, this iconic gateway was completed in 1415. Teen Darwaza, a fine example of the provincial style of Gujarat’s architecture, once served as the entrance to the royal palace.
About its history and the eternal lamp!
The gateway’s impressive design features three massive arches, with the central one measuring 5.49 meters in width and flanked by two side arches of 4.24 meters each, all set in piers that are 11.28 meters deep and 2.44 meters thick. The arches, standing tall at 25 feet, are adorned with intricate carvings, adding to the grandeur of this historical marvel.
Teen Darwaza was more than just a passage; it was a royal gathering place where foreign dignitaries, noblemen, and military leaders would assemble before meeting the ruler. The terrace, once covered, was a prime spot for mustering troops or holding court. Today, it is surrounded by a bustling market, but its timeless beauty continues to shine through.
Teen Darwaza also has its fair share of epic historical moments. In 1459, the young Sultan Mahmud Begada used this very gateway to march out with only 300 horsemen to confront a rebellion of 30,000 insurgents, turning the tide with sheer courage.
And let’s not forget the legend of the eternal lamp. It is said that the Hindu Goddess of Wealth, Laxmi, attempted to leave Ahmedabad, but was stopped by the city’s watchman, Khwaja Siddique Kotwal, who sacrificed his life to keep her in the city. To this day, a lamp still burns near Teen Darwaza, with a legacy of over 600 years!
A call for preservation amidst the market clutter
Most people don’t stop to notice the structure, as it’s lost amid the busy market today. While it’s in need of preservation, the area is often cluttered with garbage and stalls overshadowing its beauty.
The historical value of Teen Darwaza deserves more attention, and it’s time to take steps to clean and protect it. If restored and respected, it could once again stand proudly as a testament to Ahmedabad’s rich history, but only with the necessary efforts to preserve it for future generations!
