Background
- Indraprastha is described in the Mahabharata as the capital of the Pandavas.
- The site presently known as Purana Qila (Old Fort) in Delhi is often associated with this ancient city.
Key highlights
- Purana Qila was rebuilt and fortified during the 16th century by Mughal Emperor Humayun and later by Sher Shah Suri.
- The structure combines Mughal and Afghan architectural styles, with monuments such as the Qila-e-Kuhna Mosque and Sher Mandal located within the complex.
- The fort area has served as a continuous settlement site, including Mauryan, Sunga, Kushana, Gupta, Delhi Sultanate, and Mughal periods.
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has found Painted Grey Ware (PGW) pottery, culturally linked to the Mahabharata period (circa 1200–600 BCE).
Painted Grey Ware (PGW) Pottery
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Why in news?
- A major cultural event organized at Purana Qila celebrating Indraprastha’s legacy.

