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The Shaking Minarets, known as the "Shaking Minarets" in English, are not only an architectural wonder but also an unbreakable scientific mystery, the identity of the city of Ahmedabad. There are many minarets around the world, but the specialty of these minarets is that when one minaret is shaken, its effect is also seen on the other minaret and it also shakes at the same speed. The most surprising thing is that the middle part connecting these two minarets, i.e. the main hall of the mosque, remains completely still. This phenomenon is still a challenging puzzle for science.

Historical Background

It is believed that the Shaking Minarets were built during the reign of Mahmud Begada, i.e. during the Mughal era. According to historians, these minarets may have come into existence between AD 1461 and 1511. When the city of Ahmedabad was developing, many mosques, gates, tombs and forts were built here, in which the swinging minarets have created a unique identity. It is also said that these minarets were once connected to the mosque, but later during the expansion of the railway line, some parts near the minarets were demolished.

Location and structural structure

These minarets are located near Sarnath station in the Kalupur area of ​​​​Ahmedabad. Mainly two minarets are still standing, between which the remains of the mosque can be seen. The height of each minar is about 20 meters. There are steps leading up inside the minarets. Two tiered galleries have been built in these minarets, from which beautiful views of the city can be seen.

Scientific mystery of swinging

The most unusual and interesting thing about these minarets is that when someone shakes one minar, the other minar also starts shaking at the same speed and intensity. Surprisingly, the central part connecting these two minarets – i.e. the hall of the mosque – does not move even a little, it remains completely still. The exact scientific reason behind this type of structure is not known till date.

Numerous scientists and scholars have tried to understand the structure of this amazing structure, but they have not been able to reach any concrete conclusion. Some of the possible reasons are the spring-like connections at the base of the minaret, its spherical construction and the specific type of soil composition. Surprisingly, such hanging minarets are found in only two-three places in the world, of which the hanging minarets of Ahmedabad are the most famous.

Architectural Features

These minarets show clear impressions of Mughal and Islamic architectural styles. The artistically carved design, arrangement of stones without the use of cement and the slightly curved structural structure make these minarets more attractive. As soon as you enter the minaret, you can see beautiful carvings on the floor. The steps spiral upwards, and the gallery at the top offers a panoramic view of the area surrounding the minaret.

Role in History

There are many differences of opinion among historians regarding the use of these minarets. Some historians believe that these minarets were built for defensive purposes – if an enemy attacked, the person in the minaret could be informed by a jolt. Others believe that these minarets were part of the mosque itself and were used by the Imam to give the Azan (call to prayer). While according to another belief, these minarets may have also been used for astronomical observations.

Relationship between Swing and Railways

During the British rule, the Railways Department tried to find out the secret of these minarets. Engineers dismantled one minaret and studied its structure, but they could not rebuild it in its original condition. After this failed attempt, the idea of ​​dismantling the second minaret was dropped. This incident is recorded in the pages of history and is still a topic of discussion among the people today.

Tourism Importance

These minarets are one of the main tourist attractions of Ahmedabad. Apart from locals, tourists from all over the country and abroad also come to visit this unique historical place. The Gujarat Tourism Department also gives special promotion to this place. Tourist guides give live demos of the swinging of the minarets to the tourists, which remains an exciting experience for them.

Folklore and excitement

According to local folklore, a holy tremor is felt in the swinging minarets. Some people also believed that there were supernatural powers here, while sometimes strange sounds were heard from inside the minarets. Although there is no historical or scientific basis for these beliefs, many interesting stories are prevalent due to folk beliefs.

Conservation and Protection

The swinging minarets are today a protected monument by the government. The building is monitored and protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). However, in the last few years, there has been a discussion that it is not being properly maintained. More efforts and renovation are needed to preserve this historical heritage for future generations.

Use in Photography and Films

The Hanging Minarets have always attracted photographers and filmmakers. Beautiful scenes of the Hanging Minaret have been seen in many Gujarati and Hindi films. It has been specially used in documentary films based on architecture. This place is very good for photography and it is a priceless treasure for visual artists.

Future Vision

If the Gujarat Government and the Central Government develop this place as a scientific visitor center with a dedicated spirit, then its identity will definitely become more profound worldwide. Live demos for students, models of buildings and animated displays can make this place more attractive. In today's era, this historical curiosity can be made more interesting through technology.