By TwoCircles.net staff reporter
New Delhi: Archaeological Survey of India has moved to Patna High Court to protect Tomb of Sher Shah in Sasaram.
The tomb that is part of the heritage site is encroached by unauthorized and illegal constructions. The ASI moved the court to remove these illegal constructions.
The Superintending Archaeologist, Archaeological Survey of India, Patna Circle has approached the District Authority for revival of inlet and outlet channels and to prevent the immersion of idols, washing of cloth, etc. to ensure flow of clean water.
Minister for Tourism and Culture Smt. Ambika Soni informed the Rajya Sabha that a sum of Rs. 23 lakh has been sanctioned for the year 2007-2008 for the maintenance and upkeep of the tomb. Out of this, Rs. 5 lakh to be spent for conservation of graveyard around the tomb.
Sher Shah originally named Farid Khan was born in 1472 in Sasaram. Starting his career as a small jagirdar, his personal qualities made him ascend the throne of Delhi in 1540 after defeating Mughal Emperor Humayun.
He died in 1545, just 5 years after becoming Emperor of India. Within this short span of time, he is credited with a number of achievements. He established law and order across his empire. He fostered trade and commerce activities. He built ‘Grand Trunk Road’ linking Calcutta to Peshawar. He built a road from Agra to Jodhpur linking to Gujarat seaports. A third road was built between Lahore and Multan.
He built sarais on roads for the convenience of travelers and provided safety and security. He introduced currency called ‘rupiyah’ which is the term India and Pakistan still use for their currency. He is also credited with the first systematic postal service.
The tomb to honor Sher Shah was built 3 months after his death by his son Salim Shah. It is regarded as one of the noblest specimens of Afghan architecture in India. It is an imposing brick structure standing in the middle of a square water tank.
