Anasagar Lake
Anasagar Lake: Jewel of Ajmer’s Serenity
Anasagar Lake is a scenic artificial lake, commissioned and built by Arnoraj Chauhan, son of Ajaypal Chauhan, between 1135 and 1150 AD. Arnoraj was also known as Anaji, which gives the lake its name.
Many years later, Mughal Emperor Jahangir added his touch to the lake by laying out the Daulat Bagh Gardens near the lake. Emperor Shah Jahan too, contributed to the expansion by building five pavilions, known as the Baradari, between the garden and the lake.
It is nested in the center region of Ajmer, Rajasthan. As it is a serene oasis in the middle of the vibrant chaos of Ajmer City. The lake has a wide area and is covered from the boundaries by the Aravalli hills.
Thus, this artificial lake is the best testament to the architectural prowess of the Mughals and their ability to create both beauty and utility.
Historical Roots:
Anasagar Lake holds a significant place in the history of Ajmer. It was constructed in the 12th century by Arnoraja, the grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan, the renowned Rajput king.
However, it was during the Mughal era that the lake gained its present form and grandeur. It was the Mughal emperors, particularly Emperor Jahangir, who added the marble pavilions, landscaped gardens, and other architectural elements that adorn the lake’s periphery.
Architectural Marvels:
One of the most distinctive features of Anasagar Lake is the series of marble pavilions and gardens that embellish its shores. Among these, the Daulat Bagh garden and the Baradari pavilion are the most prominent.
The Daulat Bagh garden, adorned with lush greenery and fragrant flowers, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. The Baradari pavilion, a delicate and intricately designed structure, is perched at the center of the lake, accessible by boats.
This pavilion serves as a mesmerizing vantage point, offering panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.
Boating and Reflections:
Anasagar Lake isn’t just about admiring its beauty from the shore. Boating is a popular activity that allows visitors to experience the lake’s tranquility up close.
The shimmering waters mirror the surrounding architecture, creating a surreal reflection that amplifies the grandeur of the marble structures. As the boat glides across the lake, visitors are treated to a unique perspective of the historical monuments and the cityscape beyond.
Spiritual and Recreational Hub:
Anasagar Lake isn’t just a visual delight; it holds spiritual significance as well. A short distance from the lake is the famous Dargah Sharif, the shrine of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.
Pilgrims and visitors often find solace in the serene ambiance of the lake before or after paying their respects at the Dargah.
The lake also serves as a recreational hub for locals and tourists. Families come here for picnics, couples seek romantic boat rides, and individuals find respite from the bustling city life within its tranquil environs.
The gentle breeze that ripples across the lake’s surface carries with it a sense of calm, inviting visitors to unwind and rejuvenate.
Legacy and Future:
Anasagar Lake has withstood the test of time, witnessing the rise and fall of empires, the passage of history, and the evolution of society.
Its legacy is not just in its physical beauty but in the stories it holds and the memories it creates. As Ajmer continues to evolve, Anasagar Lake remains a constant, a reflection of the city’s soul.
Efforts to preserve and enhance the lake’s beauty are ongoing. Restoration projects aim to maintain the historical structures while ensuring that the lake remains an inviting space for generations to come.
Conclusion:
Anasagar Lake is more than just a body of water; it’s a piece of living history, a canvas of tranquility amidst the vibrant tapestry of Ajmer. With its historical significance, architectural marvels, and serene waters, it continues to be a source of inspiration and solace for all who visit.
Anasagar Lake is a reminder that in the heart of a city’s hustle and bustle, there can exist an oasis of calm and beauty, a place where the past and present converge in harmonious reflection.
