Nagpur: The tomb of Gond King Bakht Buland Shah, who founded the city of Nagpur, along with the burial site of other Gond royals, is now in a state of disrepair in the Sakkardara area. This heritage site, which holds significant historical importance, has been granted heritage status, but its current condition is a cause for concern. The ‘Nagpur Today’ team has brought this issue to light, raising questions about the neglect of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
As Nagpurians are presented with visions of a modern, world-class city, the crumbling state of its historical roots presents a sharp contrast. Many locals are unaware of the existence of this tomb, which has become a neglected and forgotten part of Nagpur’s heritage. The site, which is crucial to understanding the history of Nagpur’s founding, has deteriorated into ruins.
Gond King Bakht Buland Shah ruled from 1668 to 1706 for 38 years, and in 1702, he founded the city of Nagpur. The Sakkardara area was home to a vast royal cemetery where the Gond royal family members were buried after their deaths. However, large portions of this cemetery have now been encroached upon, and only 29 tombs remain. Even these tombs are in a dilapidated condition. According to the Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT), the land, listed under property number 175 in the city’s records, is unauthorized and improperly recorded under their name.
With the rich history of the Gondwana region at stake, there are growing demands from various quarters for the immediate restoration of this burial site. Many are calling for the development of this area as a protected historical site, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the legacy of the Gond kings.