‘Sheeshmahal’ Opens to the Public in Delhi; Inaugurated by LG V.K. Saxena and CM Rekha Gupta

In a significant step towards heritage conservation, the BJP-led Delhi government has opened the historic ‘Sheeshmahal’ to the public. Located in Shalimar Bagh, the medieval-era Sheeshmahal Park has been beautifully restored and was officially inaugurated on Wednesday by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in attendance.

The restoration of Sheeshmahal was carried out under the leadership of LG Saxena. Speaking at the event, CM Rekha Gupta said the Delhi government is committed to preserving the capital’s rich history and culture by restoring old sites and making them accessible to all. She said the project is a perfect example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi’ (Development along with Heritage) campaign.

Taking a jibe at the previous Aam Aadmi Party government, Rekha Gupta remarked, “The former Chief Minister built a ‘Sheeshmahal’ for his personal luxury using taxpayers’ hard-earned money. In contrast, this Sheeshmahal has been dedicated to the public for their benefit.”

 She added, “This park has been redeveloped, and the Lieutenant Governor remained deeply involved in its completion. After becoming CM, I said I would not step into that ‘Sheeshmahal’, but the LG promised to build one in my area for the people — and here it is.”

Gupta further noted the stark contrast between the previous and current governments. “We need to restore the old ‘Sheeshmahal’ to its original form, and money misused from the public exchequer should be returned,” she said.

She also highlighted the LG’s continuous efforts toward the rejuvenation of Delhi, including cleaning the Yamuna and tackling the city’s garbage mountains, while pointing out that Arvind Kejriwal found such efforts problematic.

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat praised the initiative, stating, “Shalimar Bagh has a rich history, and its historical monuments, including Sheeshmahal, had fallen into neglect. The LG took personal interest in its restoration. The grandeur and beauty brought back to the park by ASI and DDA are truly commendable.”