Ahmedabad’s acropolis hosts students’ creative tribute to shared cultural identity

By A Representative 

On April 18, World Heritage Day, Sarkhej Roza in Ahmedabad once again came alive with the energy and creativity of children. Nearly 100 students from Gul International School, Safal School, and Gulshan-e-Maher School participated under the theme “Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan” (Our Heritage, Our Identity). Through their paintings, the children sought not only to depict buildings but also to reconnect with their cultural roots. 

The event was organized in collaboration with Saanjhi Virasat and the Archaeological Survey of India, with speakers including Bhavna Ramrakhiani of Saanjhi Virasat, Shubho Majumdar of ASI, historian Rizwan Kadri, Dr. Utpala Desai of Intact Gujarat, Abrar Ali Saiyed, President of the Sarkhej Roza Committee, and trustee Rafiq Kotharia. 

They shared insights into the monument’s history and significance, fostering awareness among the younger generation about their heritage.

Sarkhej Roza, located in Makarba on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, is one of the most prominent architectural complexes of the Gujarat Sultanate period. 

Built between 1445 and 1451 CE during the reign of Sultan Mahmud Begada by architects Azam and Muazzam Khan, it is often described as “Ahmedabad’s Acropolis” because of its scale and grandeur. 

The complex spans 34 acres and includes mosques, tombs, palaces, and a large tank. It is particularly notable for housing the tomb of Shaikh Ahmed Khattu Ganj Baksh, a revered Sufi saint whose influence was central to the founding of Ahmedabad city. 

Architecturally, Sarkhej Roza represents an early Indo-Saracenic style, blending Islamic geometric design with Hindu and Jain craftsmanship, a synthesis that predates Mughal architecture. 

Its trabeated system, jharokhas, traceries, and integration of light into prayer halls exemplify this fusion. Recognized as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India, Sarkhej Roza is both a historic and archaeological landmark.

The World Heritage Day program highlighted that heritage is not confined to stone structures but lives on in emotions, creativity, and identity. 

The children’s paintings reflected culture, history, and a sense of belonging, ensuring that Sarkhej Roza continues to inspire future generations as a living symbol of India’s composite heritage.