Citizens of Nagpur experienced the joy of community living in its simplicity and togetherness in a Heritage Walk of Mahdibagh Colony organized by Architectural Sankul on Sunday, 17th March. 2019. The colony welcomed a group of 85 heritage lovers with their trademark hospitality. The walk started by brief introduction by Ar.Madhura Rathod and Ar.Nitika Ramani of Architectural Sankul, the participants were guided by volunteers from the community around the gardens and heritage buildings.
Mahdi Bagh is a unique community of peaceful and progressive Muslims, an elitist sect, known as Atba-e-Malak Badar (followers of Maulana Malak and Maulana Badar) after the two enlightened souls who founded the religious order in 1891 AD in Nagpur. The heritage lovers appreciated the principles of simplicity, brotherhood, equality and community service that the colony is founded on and which is reflected in the well preserved buildings. They visited the Mosque, Diwan-i-Am (community hall), library, Ivan-e-Badari (royal residence), Turbat Mubarak (final resting place of the Holy Souls) among others. The walk took them to the swimming pool and pond, the golf course and playgrounds. Everyone was taken in by the beauty of the greens and the atmosphere of peace and spirituality that encompasses the colony.
Among the participants were esteemed members of the Air Force; INTACH; students and faculty of architecture; students of archaeology and other enthusiasts from across the city. The heritage walk concluded by refreshments, certificates and thank you note for this successful collaboration with Mahdibagh Colony which opened up the gates of this ‘Paradise on Earth’ for participants to experience.
