A highly enriching workshop was conducted by renowned historian Dr. Swapna Liddle on 15 April 2025 for the teachers of Delhi Public School, Vasant Vihar and East of Kailash in DPS,
R.K. Puram. The session centered on Heritage Walks in and around Delhi,offering a captivating exploration of the city’s architectural, cultural, and ecological past.
Our Principal Mr.Anil Kumar,motivated the teachers with some leading questions on Delhi’s heritage and history after Dr.Swapna Liddle was introduced by Ms.Megha Dutta of Vasant Vihar.
Dr. Liddle began by transporting the participants to the historic heart of Delhi—Shahjahanabad, the
walled city established by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. She spoke vividly about the houses of Old Delhi, with their intricate courtyards and elevated terraces.These spaces, she explained, were not only architectural features but also social and cultural hubs. The narrow gullies and the unique structure of the homes told stories of communal living, climatic adaptations, and the deep-rooted traditions that defined life in the past.
The workshop also delved into Delhi’s green heritage. Dr. Liddle highlighted how the parks and gardens of Delhi, once flourishing with native plant species, have gradually seen a shift. The preference for exotic species in modern landscaping has led to a loss of ecological balance and traditional biodiversity. This part of the session emphasized the need to reconnect with indigenous flora in heritage restoration.
Tracing Delhi’s long and layered past, Dr. Liddle introduced the concept of the Seven Cities ofDelhi—each representing different dynasties and eras, from the Sultanate period to the Mughals. Through this lens, the teachers explored how Delhi evolved through time, with each ruler leaving a distinct imprint on its urban and architectural landscape.
A significant part of the workshop was devoted to the construction techniques and materials used in
historical monuments. Dr. Liddle spoke about random rubble masonry, traditional method that employed limestone, brickstone, cow dung, methi(fenugreek), urad dal (black gram), gud (jaggery), and bel fruit as binding agents—demonstrating the deep integration of organic and local resources in building practices. She also discussed the stunning Pietra Dura work,particularly in monuments like the Red Fort, where floral motifs crafted from inlaid semi-precious stones showcased the artistic brilliance of the Mughal era.
She reiterated Geometry in monuments could be a project for children, even while exposing them to ancient cultures and understanding various building techniques. Innovations in arts & crafts, as well as technologies, are more easily comprehended when observed.In fact she suggested ways through which we can weave learning of various subjects revolving around our heritage.
The session concluded with insights into the impact of Mughal and Sultanate rulers on Delhi’s infrastructure and architecture. Their legacy can be seen not only in grand monuments but also in water systems, city planning, and the overall character of historical Delhi. The slide show was interspersed with an interesting and informative commentary.
The workshop was an eye-opening experience that blended history, architecture, ecology, and culture, equipping teachers with rich knowledge to inspire students through immersive learning.
Dr. Liddle’s passion and expertise made it a memorable and enlightening experience for all attendees.
An interactive session followed wherein Dr. Liddle engaged with the teachers present and answered their queries.
Vote of thanks was proposed by Ms.Sohini Chakravarty of DPS R.K.Puram.
