HISTORY, LEGENDS & MYTHOLOGY

Gujari Mahal houses graves of British soldiers
by Ashok Pal

     Gwalior: Situated inside the majestic Gwalior Fort complex, the Gujari Mahal is an attraction for many foreign tourists, especially Britons. The Gujari Mahal Museum houses the graves of British soldiers who died during the 1857 Revolt for Indian Independence. These soldiers died while confronting Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi. According to Archaeological Survey of India officials, a majority of the foreign visitors come to remember their forefathers. "Around 30-40 graves have been preserved here. They are cleaned regularly. The British usually come to the museum searching for their forefathers. Their remembrances are still preserved here," said L B Singh, an archaeologist at the Gwalior Fort Museum. In 1922, the Central Archaeological Museum took shape in the palace (Gujari Mahal). This regal structure was built by Mansingh Tomar of the Tomar Dynasty (1486-1516) in remembrance of his beloved, Gujari Rani. The 15th century Gwalior Fort overlooks Gwalior City. The outer walls of the fort stand two miles in length and 35 feet high. The fort was reputed to be one of the most impenetrable forts of India. Today, the Gujari Mahal houses one of the finest museums of sculpture dating back to 1st century AD.
-Jan 18, 2007    

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