'Sheesh Mahal' In Delhi Opens To Public, But It’s Not The One You Think

Last Updated:July 02, 2025, 15:46 IST

Delhi's 17th-century Sheesh Mahal, built by Shah Jahan, reopened after restoration. CM Rekha Gupta contrasted it with Kejriwal's residence, calling it a Sheesh Mahal for people.

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that the park, including Sheesh Mahal, holds a rich history and has been a matter of pride for Delhi for over 400 years. (Photo: X/CMODelhi)

Delhi’s “Sheesh Mahal" welcomed visitors on Wednesday, but it’s not the same structure that was allegedly built by former CM Arvind Kejriwal and linked to his political controversies.

Located in Shalimar Bagh, Northwest Delhi, this “Sheesh Mahal" is a 17th-century palace built by Emperor Shah Jahan, renowned for its intricate mirror work and Mughal-style architecture.

The palace, an integral part of the larger Mughal garden complex, has recently undergone restoration. It also inspired the nickname used by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s official residence at 9, Flag Staff Road — a property that became a major poll issue during the 2025 Assembly elections due to its allegedly “luxurious" renovation.

After unveiling the restored Sheesh Mahal, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta took a dig at Kejriwal and said: “He had made a Sheesh Mahal for his own comfort, now this government has made a Sheesh Mahal for people. This is the difference. I only want to say that may this Sheesh Mahal stand tall."

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that the park, including Sheesh Mahal, holds a rich history and has been a matter of pride for Delhi for over 400 years.

“Unfortunately, after independence, except for a few periods, the successive governments in Delhi largely failed to preserve such historical heritage. As a result, places like Shalimar Bagh and its historical structures like Sheesh Mahal fell into disrepair and were nearly ruined. However, thanks to the personal interest taken by the Hon’ble LG and the joint efforts of the DDA, the restoration carried out has truly restored the grandeur and magnificence of the park," he said.

Saurabh Verma

Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

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