Description

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Context:

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), in conjunction with the World Monuments Fund India (WMFI) and the TCS Foundation, has successfully finished the conservation work on 'Rajon ki Baoli', a 16th-century stepwell.

About Rajon ki Baoli

Rajon ki Baoli, also known as Rajon ki Bain, is a notable ancient stepwell in Mehrauli Archaeological Park, south Delhi.
Daulat Khan erected it in 1506 CE during the reign of Sikander Lodi, the last pre-Mughal kingdom in India.
It exemplifies Lodi-era architecture and conventional water engineering.
Historically, it served as a water reservoir and a summer resort.
The stepwell's name, Rajon ki Baoli, translates as 'Baoli of the Masons,' referring to its past use by masons for drinking and cooking.

Rajon ki Baoli Features

Structure	Rectangular stepwell covering 1,610 sq m and 13.4 meters deep
Design	4-level structure; only the topmost tier is visible from ground level
Architectural Features	Includes verandas, arched corridors, 12-pillared arcades, and stucco medallions
	Complex also includes a mosque, a tomb, and a chhatri (pavilion)
Purpose	Served as a water source, resting place, and had social-religious utility

Lodi Dynasty

The Lodi Dynasty controlled the Delhi Sultanate from 1451 until 1526.
Founded by Bahlul Lodi, Delhi's first Afghan ruler.
Dominant territories included Punjab, Jaunpur, Gwalior, and the Upper Ganga Valley.

Key rulers:
Bahlul Lodi (1451-1489) annexed Jaunpur, solidifying Afghan control in northern India.
Sikandar Lodi (1489-1517) established Agra, implemented agricultural reforms, standardised land with Gaz-i-Sikandari, and promoted literature and music. He levied jizya and razed temples in Mathura, demonstrating intolerance.
Ibrahim Lodi (1517-1526) lost the First Battle of Panipat against Babur, therefore ending the dynasty and Sultanate.