Daily News Analysis ‘Purana Qila and the Ancient City of Indraprastha’ : 5 November

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).

Why in news?

• A major cultural event organized at Purana Qila celebrating Indraprastha’s legacy.