Lost Well of Pratapgunj

Vadodara-Baroda, Well By HoVB No Comments

Located near Pratapgunj, close to Bhuki Nala, are two arch-like structures featuring intricate brickwork and an elegant kamaan (arch). Though now in a dilapidated condition, these structures date back to the early 19th century and are traditionally believed to be well. Despite their bridge-like appearance, historical records indicate that they were originally wells constructed by Bibi Ismat Banu.

Inscription Details

An important historical artifact associated with these structures is an inscription from Pratapgunj, dated 1226 H. (A.D. 1811). This arch-shaped tablet, measuring 1 ft. 8 in. by 1 ft. 2 in., is engraved with Persian prose in the Nastaliq script. Initially discovered near the well in Pratapgunj, the tablet has since been relocated to the Baroda Museum for preservation and further study.

Text Translation

Tablet stone with Inscription, now at Baroda Museum.

The inscription reads:

“In the name of the saints of the Chishtiya order. In the year 1226 H. (A.D. 1811), Bibi Ismat Banu built this well at a cost of Rs. 2000 for Nawab Jamalu’d-Din Husain Khan.” Nawab Jamalu’d-Din Husain Khan belonged to Nawab Family of Baroda.

Significance

This inscription provides valuable insight into the early 19th-century community and architectural practices of Baroda. It highlights the well as a significant resource and reflects the philanthropic efforts and local heritage of the time. The inscription serves as a testament to the contributions of Bibi Ismat Banu and underscores the historical importance of these structures.

However, since the 1950s, a concrete bridge has been constructed just above the Bhukhi Nala and adjacent to these structures. The current state of the well and its surroundings is quite poor; the area under and around the structures is now occupied by impoverished residents, and the historical integrity of the site has significantly deteriorated due to a lack of maintenance and care.

This post is written from info & inscription image provided by Mirza Akram Ali Baig Ballantine, Aiyub Khan Pathan, Chandrashekhar Patil with partial source taken from Important Inscriptions by A S Gadre.