timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Underground-museum-at-Humayuns-Tomb-in-2-years/articleshow/46809976.cms
Underground museum at Humayun’s Tomb in 2 years
Richi Verma,TNN | Apr 5, 2015, 01.54 AM IST
NEW DELHI: Come 2017, the city will have its first, fully underground museum at the world-famous Humayun's Tomb complex, which will showcase art, culture and architectural history of the Nizamuddin area spanning over seven centuries. Inspired by the traditional baolis of northern India, the one-of-its-kind museum will be constructed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture as part of the Nizamuddin Urban Renewal Programme.
The foundation stone will be laid on Tuesday by Union tourism minister Dr Mahesh Sharma in the presence of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who will be in Delhi to receive the Padma Vibhushan. Officials said this would be the first of the site museums planned by the culture ministry as part of the 25 adarsh or "model" monuments programme.
"This is an excellent example of public-private partnership to promote India's cultural heritage. We want to replicate the concept at Qutub Minar, Red Fort and other Unesco World Heritage Sites,'' said tourism secretary Lalit Panwar. The tourism ministry has pledged Rs 49 crore towards the construction cost of the project, which is expected to be completed in 30 months.
The idea of the site museum, to be built at the entrance of the Humayun's Tomb, was first mooted in 2010 by Archaeological Survey of India. Studies commenced to identify the most appropriate site that would cater to the visitors' needs as well as enhance interest in the Nizamuddin area. However, it was to be ensured that the historic character of the area remained in tact or there was no damage to the underlying archaeology and mature trees.
"The entrance zone was considered the most appropriate site as this would enable the museum to serve as a bridge between the currently segregated sites of Humayun's Tomb, Sundar Nursery and the Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti. Ground-penetrating radar surveys confirmed that no archaeological remains existed on the site,'' said an ASI official.
Experts said the design of the museum was inspired by the geometric forms found in the Mughal architecture. "The gallery spaces are arranged in a sequence of intersecting squares, with wide column spans of eight meters. Natural light, filtered through skylights and open courtyards, will illuminate the gallery areas,'' the official added.
The entry plaza, comprising multiple ticket counters, a cafe and other amenities will be set up under the foliage of large trees. It will give access to a souvenir shop, auditorium, library, crafts gallery and seminar rooms. To enter the museum galleries, visitors will descend a ramped garden, walk through an enclosed gallery and arrive into the vestibule gallery at a depth of six metres below the surface.
"In this gallery, one will have a choice of visiting the "model room", which will showcase in 3D format the entire site as it would have been at the end of the Mughal reign. Those in a hurry can exit from here directly without visiting the permanent gallery," the official said.
Exhibits at the permanent gallery will include architectural models and objects related to the Mughal era. The restored copper finial of Humayun's Tomb and other architectural elements recovered during the conservation work undertaken at the site since 1997 will be displayed in the finial gallery, adjacent to the permanent gallery.
Visitors can take virtual walks through digital exhibit technology as well. Live demonstrations of stonework, tile work, as well as other prominent Mughal crafts such as metalwork, textiles and painting for manuscripts will be regular features.
The landscape—both at the surface level and underground—is designed to function as a series of generously proportioned walkways, gardens and plazas that will offer a pleasant experience to visitors of all age-groups.
Aga Khan Visit to India 2015 April
Aga Khan Visit to India 2015 April
Last edited by Admin on Mon Apr 06, 2015 10:59 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Mughal Art and Architecture to Be Highlights of New Humayun's Tomb Site Museum
Delhi, India, April 2015 – As part of its continued efforts to restore and revitalise the areas around Humayun's Tomb, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and its partners will begin construction on a site museum and visitor's centre in Delhi.
The need for a museum and visitor centre at this world heritage site became apparent in recent years. Two million people visit the Humayan’s Tomb complex annually, including over 500,000 children. An even larger number of pilgrims – from across the world and of many faiths – visit the adjoining Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the 14th century Sufi saint.
In response to the dramatic increase in visitors, the Archaeological Survey of India called for the creation of a Site Museum. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) – which has undertaken conservation works on over 50 monuments in Delhi, including the restoration of Humayun’s Tomb – proposed the construction of a state-of-the-art site museum to be built at the entrance to the World Heritage Site. The Ministry of Tourism has pledged Rs 49 Crores (US$ 8.0 million) towards the construction cost of the Site Museum.
The Museum’s aims include a better understanding of Mughal architecture and building craft traditions, but it will also shed light on the development of the Nizamuddin area over the last millennium. Perhaps most significantly, it will highlight the area’s pluralist cultural traditions, which defined Hindustani culture for at least five centuries.
The Site Museum will include a permanent exhibit, galleries for temporary exhibits, an auditorium for film screenings, a souvenirs shop and a café. Live demonstrations of building crafts such as stonework and plaster work, as well as other prominent Mughal crafts, will be a permanent activity.
The Museum is also expected to serve as a starting point for tourists interested in touring other prominent monuments of Mughal India, including the Taj Mahal, which was built after – and inspired by – Humayun’s Tomb.
The sunken, low-profile design, which was inspired by the traditional baolis of northern India, ensures that the visual aesthetics of adjacent 16th century monuments, such as the Sabz Burj, Isa Khan’s Tomb and Sundarwala Burj, will not be disturbed. For more information about the Site Museum, please see the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum brief.
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) has been carrying out conservation work in the Humayun’s Tomb area for nearly 15 years. Its engagement began with the Humayun’s Tomb Garden revitalisation project, a gift to India made by His Highness the Aga Khan on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.
Through a subsequent Public-Private Partnership (PPP) created at the invitation of the Government of India, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture’s engagement in the area expanded. Under the PPP, a broader urban revitalisation project was created to encompass an urban renewal initiative in Nizamuddin Basti, the redevelopment of the Sundar Nursery - Batashewala Complex into a 100-acre city park, significant improvements to the quality of life for the residents of Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti, the conservation of Humayun’s Tomb itself, and the restoration of associated structures.
The aim of the PPP, as with all such projects undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, is to revitalise historic urban centres in ways that can spur social, economic and cultural development. In Nizamuddin, for example, AKTC projects include a wide spectrum of programmes, from early childhood development to adult vocational training, from sanitation to waste management, housing improvement to street upgrading, from the landscaping of neighbourhood parks to the revival of cultural traditions. In each endeavour, AKTC has worked in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Central Public Works Department.
For more information, please contact:
Archana Saad Akhtar
Aga Khan Trust for Culture
PO Box 3253
Hazrat Nizamuddin, New Delhi
Tel: +91 11 40700720
Fax: +91 11 40700750
Email: [email protected]
http://www.nizamuddinrenewal.org/
or, Internationally:
Sam Pickens
Aga Khan Development Network
1-3 Avenue de la Paix
1202 Geneva, Switzerland
Telephone: +41 22 909 72 00
Facsimile: +41 22 909 72 91
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.akdn.org
Delhi, India, April 2015 – As part of its continued efforts to restore and revitalise the areas around Humayun's Tomb, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and its partners will begin construction on a site museum and visitor's centre in Delhi.
The need for a museum and visitor centre at this world heritage site became apparent in recent years. Two million people visit the Humayan’s Tomb complex annually, including over 500,000 children. An even larger number of pilgrims – from across the world and of many faiths – visit the adjoining Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the 14th century Sufi saint.
In response to the dramatic increase in visitors, the Archaeological Survey of India called for the creation of a Site Museum. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) – which has undertaken conservation works on over 50 monuments in Delhi, including the restoration of Humayun’s Tomb – proposed the construction of a state-of-the-art site museum to be built at the entrance to the World Heritage Site. The Ministry of Tourism has pledged Rs 49 Crores (US$ 8.0 million) towards the construction cost of the Site Museum.
The Museum’s aims include a better understanding of Mughal architecture and building craft traditions, but it will also shed light on the development of the Nizamuddin area over the last millennium. Perhaps most significantly, it will highlight the area’s pluralist cultural traditions, which defined Hindustani culture for at least five centuries.
The Site Museum will include a permanent exhibit, galleries for temporary exhibits, an auditorium for film screenings, a souvenirs shop and a café. Live demonstrations of building crafts such as stonework and plaster work, as well as other prominent Mughal crafts, will be a permanent activity.
The Museum is also expected to serve as a starting point for tourists interested in touring other prominent monuments of Mughal India, including the Taj Mahal, which was built after – and inspired by – Humayun’s Tomb.
The sunken, low-profile design, which was inspired by the traditional baolis of northern India, ensures that the visual aesthetics of adjacent 16th century monuments, such as the Sabz Burj, Isa Khan’s Tomb and Sundarwala Burj, will not be disturbed. For more information about the Site Museum, please see the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum brief.
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) has been carrying out conservation work in the Humayun’s Tomb area for nearly 15 years. Its engagement began with the Humayun’s Tomb Garden revitalisation project, a gift to India made by His Highness the Aga Khan on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.
Through a subsequent Public-Private Partnership (PPP) created at the invitation of the Government of India, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture’s engagement in the area expanded. Under the PPP, a broader urban revitalisation project was created to encompass an urban renewal initiative in Nizamuddin Basti, the redevelopment of the Sundar Nursery - Batashewala Complex into a 100-acre city park, significant improvements to the quality of life for the residents of Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti, the conservation of Humayun’s Tomb itself, and the restoration of associated structures.
The aim of the PPP, as with all such projects undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, is to revitalise historic urban centres in ways that can spur social, economic and cultural development. In Nizamuddin, for example, AKTC projects include a wide spectrum of programmes, from early childhood development to adult vocational training, from sanitation to waste management, housing improvement to street upgrading, from the landscaping of neighbourhood parks to the revival of cultural traditions. In each endeavour, AKTC has worked in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Central Public Works Department.
For more information, please contact:
Archana Saad Akhtar
Aga Khan Trust for Culture
PO Box 3253
Hazrat Nizamuddin, New Delhi
Tel: +91 11 40700720
Fax: +91 11 40700750
Email: [email protected]
http://www.nizamuddinrenewal.org/
or, Internationally:
Sam Pickens
Aga Khan Development Network
1-3 Avenue de la Paix
1202 Geneva, Switzerland
Telephone: +41 22 909 72 00
Facsimile: +41 22 909 72 91
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.akdn.org
INVITATION
Dear Sir/Madam,
You are cordially invited to cover the following event:
EVENT: Minister of State for Culture & Tourism, Dr. Mahesh Sharma will lay the foundation stone of Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum in the presence of H.H. Prince Aga Khan
DATE: 7th April, 2015 (Tuesday)
TIME: 5:00 PM
VENUE: Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi
Note: Media Entry STRICTLY on the basis of PIB ACCREDITATION CARD
Dear Sir/Madam,
You are cordially invited to cover the following event:
EVENT: Minister of State for Culture & Tourism, Dr. Mahesh Sharma will lay the foundation stone of Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum in the presence of H.H. Prince Aga Khan
DATE: 7th April, 2015 (Tuesday)
TIME: 5:00 PM
VENUE: Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi
Note: Media Entry STRICTLY on the basis of PIB ACCREDITATION CARD
mea.gov.in/media-advisory.htm?dtl/25035/Visit+of+His+Highness+Prince+Karim+Aga+Khan+to+India+April+0611+2015
Itinerary
Visit of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan to India (April 06-11, 2015)
April 06, 2015
As on 06th April, 2015 at 1600 hrs
Visit of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan, to India from 06-11 April, 2015
Monday, April 06, 2015
1930 hrs
Arrive Delhi
Venue: Air Force Station Palam
Photo Op: AV Media
Tuesday, April 07, 2015
1100 hrs
Meeting with Vice President
Venue: 6, Maulana Azad Road
Photo Op: Agencies only
1540 hrs
Meeting with Prime Minister
Venue: 7, Race Course Road
1725 hrs
Visit Humayun’s Tomb
Venue: Humayun’s Tomb
Contact Organiser
1930 hrs
Formal hand shake followed by Banquet
Venue: Hyderabad House
Photo Op: AV Media
Wednesday, April 08, 2015
1130 hrs
Attend Padma Awards Ceremony
Venue: Rashtrapati Bhavan
Photo Op: Agencies Only
1600 hrs
Visit to Agra
Thursday, April 10, 2015
Visit to Hyderabad
Saturday, April 11, 2015
1125 hrs
Departure
Itinerary
Visit of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan to India (April 06-11, 2015)
April 06, 2015
As on 06th April, 2015 at 1600 hrs
Visit of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan, to India from 06-11 April, 2015
Monday, April 06, 2015
1930 hrs
Arrive Delhi
Venue: Air Force Station Palam
Photo Op: AV Media
Tuesday, April 07, 2015
1100 hrs
Meeting with Vice President
Venue: 6, Maulana Azad Road
Photo Op: Agencies only
1540 hrs
Meeting with Prime Minister
Venue: 7, Race Course Road
1725 hrs
Visit Humayun’s Tomb
Venue: Humayun’s Tomb
Contact Organiser
1930 hrs
Formal hand shake followed by Banquet
Venue: Hyderabad House
Photo Op: AV Media
Wednesday, April 08, 2015
1130 hrs
Attend Padma Awards Ceremony
Venue: Rashtrapati Bhavan
Photo Op: Agencies Only
1600 hrs
Visit to Agra
Thursday, April 10, 2015
Visit to Hyderabad
Saturday, April 11, 2015
1125 hrs
Departure
Video of the arrival of HH The Aga Khan in Delhi, India for a 5 days visit starting on 6 April 2015
http://www.aninews.in/videogallery2/358 ... delhi.html
New Delhi, April 07 (ANI): Spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, His Highness Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini Aga Khan (IV) arrived in New Delhi for a five-day visit to the country. He has been invited by the central government of India. On April 08, he will be conferred India's second highest civilian award (Padma Vibhushan) in the national capital. He is one of the world's richest men with an estimated net worth of $800 million as well as a revered religious figure. Recognised worldwide for his charity work, the spiritual head is believed to be a direct descendant of Islam's revered Prophet Mohammed. While in India, Aga Khan will officiate at the foundation stone laying ceremony at Humayun's Tomb complex. The Imam of the Shia Imami Ismailia Muslims calls him 'The Aga Khan'.
Ismaili Muslims, The Aga Khan, Central Government, Padma Vibhushan, Humayun s Tomb
http://www.aninews.in/videogallery2/358 ... delhi.html
theismaili.org/news-events/mawlana-hazar-imam-arrives-india
New Delhi, 6 April 2015 — Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in India today for a week-long visit during which he will receive the Padma Vibhushan.
Also see:
Upon his arrival, Mawlana Hazar Imam was received by Joint Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs Shri Rudrendra Tandon and Chief of Protocol Shri Jaideep Mazumdar on behalf of the Government of India.
Aitmadi Gulam Rahimtoola, President of the Ismaili Council for India welcomed Hazar Imam on behalf of the Jamat. Aabad Ahmed, Chairman of the Aga Khan Foundation for India, and Nasser Munjee Chairman of DCB Bank and the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme in India represented the Aga Khan Development Network institutions in India. Senior Jamati and AKDN institutional leaders were also present to greet the Imam.
Mawlana Hazar Imam is accompanied to India by Princess Zahra, Prince Aly Muhammad and Princess Zahra's children, Sara and Ilyan.
Hazar Imam was named a recipient of the the Padma Vibhushan in January, as part of the commemoration of India’s 66th Republic Day. It is one of the country’s highest civilian decorations.
While in India, the Imam is also expected to lay the foundation stone for a site museum and visitor’s centre for Humayun’s Tomb. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture is part of a partnership that will construct the new museum, to be situated at the World Heritage Site.
http://www.aninews.in/videogallery2/358 ... delhi.html
New Delhi, April 07 (ANI): Spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, His Highness Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini Aga Khan (IV) arrived in New Delhi for a five-day visit to the country. He has been invited by the central government of India. On April 08, he will be conferred India's second highest civilian award (Padma Vibhushan) in the national capital. He is one of the world's richest men with an estimated net worth of $800 million as well as a revered religious figure. Recognised worldwide for his charity work, the spiritual head is believed to be a direct descendant of Islam's revered Prophet Mohammed. While in India, Aga Khan will officiate at the foundation stone laying ceremony at Humayun's Tomb complex. The Imam of the Shia Imami Ismailia Muslims calls him 'The Aga Khan'.
Ismaili Muslims, The Aga Khan, Central Government, Padma Vibhushan, Humayun s Tomb
http://www.aninews.in/videogallery2/358 ... delhi.html
theismaili.org/news-events/mawlana-hazar-imam-arrives-india
New Delhi, 6 April 2015 — Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in India today for a week-long visit during which he will receive the Padma Vibhushan.
Also see:
Upon his arrival, Mawlana Hazar Imam was received by Joint Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs Shri Rudrendra Tandon and Chief of Protocol Shri Jaideep Mazumdar on behalf of the Government of India.
Aitmadi Gulam Rahimtoola, President of the Ismaili Council for India welcomed Hazar Imam on behalf of the Jamat. Aabad Ahmed, Chairman of the Aga Khan Foundation for India, and Nasser Munjee Chairman of DCB Bank and the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme in India represented the Aga Khan Development Network institutions in India. Senior Jamati and AKDN institutional leaders were also present to greet the Imam.
Mawlana Hazar Imam is accompanied to India by Princess Zahra, Prince Aly Muhammad and Princess Zahra's children, Sara and Ilyan.
Hazar Imam was named a recipient of the the Padma Vibhushan in January, as part of the commemoration of India’s 66th Republic Day. It is one of the country’s highest civilian decorations.
While in India, the Imam is also expected to lay the foundation stone for a site museum and visitor’s centre for Humayun’s Tomb. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture is part of a partnership that will construct the new museum, to be situated at the World Heritage Site.
newindianexpress.com/nation/Prince-Karim-Aga-Khan-Meets-President/2015/04/07/article2752415.ece
Prince Karim Aga Khan Meets President
By PTI
Published: 07th April 2015 08:51 PM
Last Updated: 07th April 2015 08:51 PM
NEW DELHI: Prince Karim Aga Khan today called on President Pranab Mukherjee who appreciated the valuable public service being done by the Aga Khan Development Network.
Congratulating Prince Aga Khan, who has been conferred with Padma Vibhushan, Mukherjee said the award reflects the admiration and respect India has for him and for the valuable
public service being done by the Network (AKDN).
The President said India appreciates the valuable contribution of AKDN in restoration and heritage conservation.
"India has been inspired by the intelligent manner in which restoration and heritage conservation has been married with the goal of reviving traditional crafts, employment creation, education, improving health and urban renewal in the Humayun's Tomb project. India intends to study the model carefully and see how it can be applied to other programmes," Mukherjee was quoted as saying in a statement, issued by President's Press Secretary, Venu Rajamony.
"Responding to the President, Prince Karim Aga Khan said he was deeply honoured by the recognition accorded to him through the Padma Vibhushan Award," it said.
He said the AKDN will continue to work in India and establish best practices in heritage conservation.
Prince Karim Aga Khan Meets President
By PTI
Published: 07th April 2015 08:51 PM
Last Updated: 07th April 2015 08:51 PM
NEW DELHI: Prince Karim Aga Khan today called on President Pranab Mukherjee who appreciated the valuable public service being done by the Aga Khan Development Network.
Congratulating Prince Aga Khan, who has been conferred with Padma Vibhushan, Mukherjee said the award reflects the admiration and respect India has for him and for the valuable
public service being done by the Network (AKDN).
The President said India appreciates the valuable contribution of AKDN in restoration and heritage conservation.
"India has been inspired by the intelligent manner in which restoration and heritage conservation has been married with the goal of reviving traditional crafts, employment creation, education, improving health and urban renewal in the Humayun's Tomb project. India intends to study the model carefully and see how it can be applied to other programmes," Mukherjee was quoted as saying in a statement, issued by President's Press Secretary, Venu Rajamony.
"Responding to the President, Prince Karim Aga Khan said he was deeply honoured by the recognition accorded to him through the Padma Vibhushan Award," it said.
He said the AKDN will continue to work in India and establish best practices in heritage conservation.
Last edited by Admin on Tue Apr 07, 2015 11:51 am, edited 1 time in total.
business-standard.com/article/news-ani/prince-karim-aga-khan-calls-on-pm-modi-115040700978_1.html
Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on PM Modi
ANI | New Delhi
April 7, 2015 Last Updated at 18:56 IST
Prince Karim Aga Khan, who is currently on a visit to India, on Tuesday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During their interaction, Prime Minister Modi praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation in the areas of rural development and sanitation and said that he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat.
Prime Minister also called upon the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in the 'Swachh Bharat' and 'Ganga Rejuvenation' initiatives.
He also sought the Foundation's participation in building toilets for girl children.
Meanwhile, Prince Karim Aga Khan, who will be awarded the Padma Vibhushan on April 8, said that he is honoured to receive the decoration. He further said that the Aga Khan Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with the state of Gujarat.
Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on PM Modi
ANI | New Delhi
April 7, 2015 Last Updated at 18:56 IST
Prince Karim Aga Khan, who is currently on a visit to India, on Tuesday called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During their interaction, Prime Minister Modi praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation in the areas of rural development and sanitation and said that he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat.
Prime Minister also called upon the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in the 'Swachh Bharat' and 'Ganga Rejuvenation' initiatives.
He also sought the Foundation's participation in building toilets for girl children.
Meanwhile, Prince Karim Aga Khan, who will be awarded the Padma Vibhushan on April 8, said that he is honoured to receive the decoration. He further said that the Aga Khan Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with the state of Gujarat.
dayandnightnews.com/2015/04/pm-tells-aga-khan-foundation-to-help-in-swachh-bharat-ganga-rejuvenation-campaigns/
PM tells Aga Khan foundation to help in Swachh Bharat, Ganga Rejuvenation campaigns
Tuesday, April 07, 2015, New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today called upon the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in ‘Swachh Bharat’ and ‘Ganga Rejuvenation’ initiatives and sought the Foundation’s participation in building toilets for girl children.
This was conveyed by the Prime Minister to Aga Khan Development Network Chairman Prince Karim Aga Khan, who is currently in India to receive Padma Vibhushan to be awarded by President Pranab Mukherjee tomorrow.
The Prime Minister praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation, especially in the areas of rural development and sanitation, which, he said, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat.
Mr Khan said he was honoured to be receiving the Padma Vibhushan and said the Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with Gujarat. He said the foundation was also involved in initiatives to promote health and hygiene, and to ensure potable water supply.
The Prime Minister and Mr Khan also discussed the current situation in West Asia. – UNI
PM tells Aga Khan foundation to help in Swachh Bharat, Ganga Rejuvenation campaigns
Tuesday, April 07, 2015, New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today called upon the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in ‘Swachh Bharat’ and ‘Ganga Rejuvenation’ initiatives and sought the Foundation’s participation in building toilets for girl children.
This was conveyed by the Prime Minister to Aga Khan Development Network Chairman Prince Karim Aga Khan, who is currently in India to receive Padma Vibhushan to be awarded by President Pranab Mukherjee tomorrow.
The Prime Minister praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation, especially in the areas of rural development and sanitation, which, he said, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat.
Mr Khan said he was honoured to be receiving the Padma Vibhushan and said the Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with Gujarat. He said the foundation was also involved in initiatives to promote health and hygiene, and to ensure potable water supply.
The Prime Minister and Mr Khan also discussed the current situation in West Asia. – UNI
aninews.in/videogallery2/35873-vice-president-hamid-ansari-meets-prince-karim-aga-khan.html
Vice President Hamid Ansari meets Prince Karim Aga Khan
Apr 7, 9:21 pm
VIDEO click here:
http://www.aninews.in/videogallery2/358 ... -khan.html
New Delhi, April 07 (ANI): Vice President Hamid Ansari on Tuesday met Spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, His Highness Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini Aga Khan (IV) in New Delhi. Khan arrived in New Delhi for a five-day visit to the country. He has been invited by the central government of India. On April 08, he will be conferred India's second highest civilian award (Padma Vibhushan) in the national capital. He is one of the world's richest men with an estimated net worth of $800 million as well as a revered religious figure. Recognised worldwide for his charity work, the spiritual head is believed to be a direct descendant of Islam's revered Prophet Mohammed.
Hamid Ansari, Prince Karim Aga Khan, Prophet Mohammed, Civilian Award, Spiritual Head
Vice President Hamid Ansari meets Prince Karim Aga Khan
Apr 7, 9:21 pm
VIDEO click here:
http://www.aninews.in/videogallery2/358 ... -khan.html
New Delhi, April 07 (ANI): Vice President Hamid Ansari on Tuesday met Spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims, His Highness Prince Shah Karim Al Hussaini Aga Khan (IV) in New Delhi. Khan arrived in New Delhi for a five-day visit to the country. He has been invited by the central government of India. On April 08, he will be conferred India's second highest civilian award (Padma Vibhushan) in the national capital. He is one of the world's richest men with an estimated net worth of $800 million as well as a revered religious figure. Recognised worldwide for his charity work, the spiritual head is believed to be a direct descendant of Islam's revered Prophet Mohammed.
Hamid Ansari, Prince Karim Aga Khan, Prophet Mohammed, Civilian Award, Spiritual Head
Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on PM Narendra Modi
April 07, 2015 DeshGujarat
New Delhi
Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, Prince Karim Aga Khan, called on the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, today. He is currently on a visit to India, and will be awarded the Padma Vibhushan by President Pranab Mukherjee tomorrow.
The Prime Minister praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation, especially in the areas of rural development and sanitation, which, he said, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat. Shri Narendra Modi called upon the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in the ‘Swachh Bharat’ and ‘Ganga Rejuvenation’ initiatives. He also sought the Foundation’s participation in building toilets for girl children.
Prince Karim Aga Khan said he was honoured to be receiving the Padma Vibhushan. He said the Aga Khan Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with the state of Gujarat. He said the Foundation was also involved in initiatives to promote health and hygiene, and to ensure potable water supply.
The Prime Minister and Prince Karim Aga Khan also discussed the current situation in West Asia.
PIB
aninews.in/newsdetail2/story210986/prince-karim-aga-khan-calls-on-president-mukherjee.html
Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on President Mukherjee
Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on President Mukherjee
Apr 7, 8:17 pm
New Delhi, Apr. 7 (ANI): Prince Karim Aga Khan called on President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital on Tuesday.
During their interaction, President Mukherjee congratulated Prince Aga Khan on the Padma Vibhushan Award being conferred on him on April 8, stating that it reflects the admiration and respect India has for him.
The President further said that India appreciates the valuable contribution of the Aga Khan Development Network in the restoration and heritage conservation.
Meanwhile, Prince Karim Aga Khan said he was deeply honoured to be accorded the Padma Vibhushan, assuring that the AKDN will continue to work in India and establish best practices in heritage conservation. (ANI)
Prince Karim Aga Khan, President, Mukherjee
Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on President Mukherjee
Prince Karim Aga Khan calls on President Mukherjee
Apr 7, 8:17 pm
New Delhi, Apr. 7 (ANI): Prince Karim Aga Khan called on President Pranab Mukherjee at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in the national capital on Tuesday.
During their interaction, President Mukherjee congratulated Prince Aga Khan on the Padma Vibhushan Award being conferred on him on April 8, stating that it reflects the admiration and respect India has for him.
The President further said that India appreciates the valuable contribution of the Aga Khan Development Network in the restoration and heritage conservation.
Meanwhile, Prince Karim Aga Khan said he was deeply honoured to be accorded the Padma Vibhushan, assuring that the AKDN will continue to work in India and establish best practices in heritage conservation. (ANI)
Prince Karim Aga Khan, President, Mukherjee
Some photo of the visit, including Noorani family
[Photos by Aziz Ajaney, ANI and other sources]
Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan arrives in India accompanied by H.H. Aga Khan and Princess Zahra Aga Khan
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan (R), Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan (M) and with Indian VP Shri Mohd. Hamid Ansari (L) posing in Delhi, India
.
[Photos by Aziz Ajaney, ANI and other sources]
Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan arrives in India accompanied by H.H. Aga Khan and Princess Zahra Aga Khan
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan (R), Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan (M) and with Indian VP Shri Mohd. Hamid Ansari (L) posing in Delhi, India
.
Last edited by Admin on Tue Apr 07, 2015 4:27 pm, edited 3 times in total.
us.india.com/news/india/narendra-modi-pranab-mukherjee-praise-aga-khan-344042/
Narendra Modi, Pranab Mukherjee praise Aga Khan
By Indo-Asian News Service @indiacom | April 07, 2015 11:33 PM | comment
Tags: Aga Khan, Narendra Modi, Pranab Mukherjee
[Pin It]
New Delhi, April 7 President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday praised the Aga Khan for the work done by his foundation towards sanitation, heritage conservation and rural development. India appreciates the valuable contribution of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in restoration and heritage conservation, Mukherjee said after Prince Karim Aga Khan called on him at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, an official release said here.
Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili sect of Shia Muslims, would be conferred India’s second highest civil honour, the Padma Vibhushan by the president on Wednesday. Mukherjee congratulated Prince Karim on the award and said this reflects the admiration and respect India has for him and for the valuable public service being done by the AKDN.
The president said India appreciates the valuable contribution of his foundation in restoration and heritage conservation. India has been inspired by the intelligent manner in which restoration and heritage conservation has been married with the goal of reviving traditional crafts, employment creation, education, improving health and urban renewal in the Humayun’s Tomb project, he said.
India intends to study the model carefully and see how it can be applied to other programmes, Mukherjee added. The Aga Khan also called on Modi, who also praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation, especially in the areas of rural development and sanitation, which, he said, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was chief minister of Gujarat.
Modi called upon the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in the ‘Swachh Bharat’ and ‘Ganga Rejuvenation’ initiatives. He also sought the foundation’s participation in building toilets for girl children. The Aga Khan said he was honoured to be receiving the Padma Vibhushan. He said the Aga Khan Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with the state of Gujarat.
Modi and the Aga Khan also discussed the current situation in West Asia.
Modified Date: April 07, 2015 11:33 PM
Narendra Modi, Pranab Mukherjee praise Aga Khan
By Indo-Asian News Service @indiacom | April 07, 2015 11:33 PM | comment
Tags: Aga Khan, Narendra Modi, Pranab Mukherjee
[Pin It]
New Delhi, April 7 President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday praised the Aga Khan for the work done by his foundation towards sanitation, heritage conservation and rural development. India appreciates the valuable contribution of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in restoration and heritage conservation, Mukherjee said after Prince Karim Aga Khan called on him at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, an official release said here.
Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili sect of Shia Muslims, would be conferred India’s second highest civil honour, the Padma Vibhushan by the president on Wednesday. Mukherjee congratulated Prince Karim on the award and said this reflects the admiration and respect India has for him and for the valuable public service being done by the AKDN.
The president said India appreciates the valuable contribution of his foundation in restoration and heritage conservation. India has been inspired by the intelligent manner in which restoration and heritage conservation has been married with the goal of reviving traditional crafts, employment creation, education, improving health and urban renewal in the Humayun’s Tomb project, he said.
India intends to study the model carefully and see how it can be applied to other programmes, Mukherjee added. The Aga Khan also called on Modi, who also praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation, especially in the areas of rural development and sanitation, which, he said, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was chief minister of Gujarat.
Modi called upon the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in the ‘Swachh Bharat’ and ‘Ganga Rejuvenation’ initiatives. He also sought the foundation’s participation in building toilets for girl children. The Aga Khan said he was honoured to be receiving the Padma Vibhushan. He said the Aga Khan Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with the state of Gujarat.
Modi and the Aga Khan also discussed the current situation in West Asia.
Modified Date: April 07, 2015 11:33 PM
zeenews.india.com/news/india/humayuns-tomb-museum-will-link-modern-with-mughal-aga-khan_1575055.html
Humayun's Tomb museum will link modern with Mughal: Aga Khan
Last Updated: Tuesday, April 7, 2015 - 23:34
New Delhi: Calling the Humayun's Tomb site museum project a "magnificent partnership" between the government and private entities, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV on Tuesday said that after completion it will link the modern city of Delhi to its remarkable Mughal heritage.
Work began on the construction of the country's first sunken museum at the iconic 16th century tomb here, one of the 25 'adarsh' (model) monuments recently designated by the Union Ministry of Culture.
"We are working in a magnificent partnership here like we did with the restoration of this monument earlier...And, the project once completed, will link the modern city of Delhi to its heritage that was a remarkable period in human history," the Aga Khan said.
Set to be completed by 2017, it will be located at the entrance zone of the World Heritage Complex and would serve as a bridge between the three sites of Nizamuddin, Sunder Nursery and the 16th century tomb.
As part of its urban renewal initiative, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) is building the museum on behalf of the ASI.
Union Minister of Culture Mahesh Sharma laid its foundation stone today in the presence of the Aga Khan, who is in the capital to receive the Padma Vibhushan tomorrow.
Inspired from the medieval 'baolis' (water tanks) of northern India, the underground site museum, with a built-up area of 9000 sq m, will marry modern 21st century architecture with Mughal-era craftsmanship in its design.
Expected to be completed in 30 months, the project has been pledged a fund of Rs 49 crore from the Tourism Ministry, and will showcase the heritage of the Nizamuddin area over the last seven centuries.
"The museum will include a permanent exhibit, galleries for temporary exhibits, an auditorium for film screenings, a souvenirs shop and a cafe. Live demonstrations of building crafts such as stonework and plaster work, as well as other prominent Mughal crafts, will be a permanent activity," the AKTC said.
"As with any of our initiatives, the idea is cultural restoration and parallel community revival and their participation in the process. We apply the same philosophy to all our projects anywhere in the world. And, we are very proud of this (Humayun's Tomb project) association," AKTC's Director General Luis Monreal, present on the occasion, told PTI.
As during the restoration of the tomb, the entry for visitors to the site will remain unaffected during the course of the work, a senior AKTC official said.
PTI
Humayun's Tomb museum will link modern with Mughal: Aga Khan
Last Updated: Tuesday, April 7, 2015 - 23:34
New Delhi: Calling the Humayun's Tomb site museum project a "magnificent partnership" between the government and private entities, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV on Tuesday said that after completion it will link the modern city of Delhi to its remarkable Mughal heritage.
Work began on the construction of the country's first sunken museum at the iconic 16th century tomb here, one of the 25 'adarsh' (model) monuments recently designated by the Union Ministry of Culture.
"We are working in a magnificent partnership here like we did with the restoration of this monument earlier...And, the project once completed, will link the modern city of Delhi to its heritage that was a remarkable period in human history," the Aga Khan said.
Set to be completed by 2017, it will be located at the entrance zone of the World Heritage Complex and would serve as a bridge between the three sites of Nizamuddin, Sunder Nursery and the 16th century tomb.
As part of its urban renewal initiative, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) is building the museum on behalf of the ASI.
Union Minister of Culture Mahesh Sharma laid its foundation stone today in the presence of the Aga Khan, who is in the capital to receive the Padma Vibhushan tomorrow.
Inspired from the medieval 'baolis' (water tanks) of northern India, the underground site museum, with a built-up area of 9000 sq m, will marry modern 21st century architecture with Mughal-era craftsmanship in its design.
Expected to be completed in 30 months, the project has been pledged a fund of Rs 49 crore from the Tourism Ministry, and will showcase the heritage of the Nizamuddin area over the last seven centuries.
"The museum will include a permanent exhibit, galleries for temporary exhibits, an auditorium for film screenings, a souvenirs shop and a cafe. Live demonstrations of building crafts such as stonework and plaster work, as well as other prominent Mughal crafts, will be a permanent activity," the AKTC said.
"As with any of our initiatives, the idea is cultural restoration and parallel community revival and their participation in the process. We apply the same philosophy to all our projects anywhere in the world. And, we are very proud of this (Humayun's Tomb project) association," AKTC's Director General Luis Monreal, present on the occasion, told PTI.
As during the restoration of the tomb, the entry for visitors to the site will remain unaffected during the course of the work, a senior AKTC official said.
PTI
indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/replicate-humayuns-tomb-work-at-taj-mahal-aga-trust-told/
Written by Sumegha Gulati | New Delhi | Published on:April 8, 2015 3:27 am
Replicate Humayun’s Tomb work at Taj Mahal: Aga trust told
Minister Mahesh Sharma with His Highness the Aga Khan on Tuesday. (Source: Express Photo by Neeraj Priyadarshi)
Written by Sumegha Gulati | New Delhi | Published on:April 8, 2015 3:27 am
Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Mahesh Sharma on Tuesday said the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) must “associate itself” and replicate its restoration work at the Humayun’s Tomb in “another, very important” monument — the Taj Mahal. He was speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony of the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum here.
Responding, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV said, “We, at AKTC, try to be very humble to historic buildings. I am not sure we would dare touch the Taj Mahal. But if there’s anything we can do, we will do,” and the audience burst into applause.
The construction of the museum has now begun. Located at the entrance of the World Heritage Site, the museum is being built at a cost of Rs 49 crore funded by the Union Ministry of Tourism and will reportedly take 30 months to be completed. AKTC officials said the museum expects an estimated 2 million visitors annually.
Inspired by the baolis of northern India, the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum is the first “sunken” museum of its kind in the country and will serve as a bridge between the presently segregated sites of Hazrat Nizamuddin, Sundar Nursery and Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti. The underground museum, with a built-up area of 9,000 square metres, will ensure that visuals to 16th century monuments such as the Sabz Burz, Isa Khan’s tomb etc., are not disturbed.
According to AKTC officials, gallery spaces inside the museum will be arranged as intersecting squares and will be illuminated by natural light filtering in through skylights and open courtyards. The main structure where galleries are being located is at a depth of six meters below ground level.
The restored copper finial, which had broken down in a storm in May last year, will be put up for display at the Finial Gallery here. AKTC had recently installed a new replica of the finial at the tomb.
Multiple ticket counters, public amenities and a café, as well as a souvenir shop, an auditorium, a library, crafts gallery and seminar rooms are other features.
Asserting that Humayun’s Tomb still represents the ideals of universal tolerance that Humayun and his son emperor Akbar represented, Prince Aga Khan said the tomb “staggers imagination to think what was created here in Mughal times” in terms of scale and grandeur. The monument had continued to inspire future generations, he added.
He also emphasised on the importance of green public spaces — one of the targets of AKTC’s Nizamuddin Urban Renewal Initiative. Expressing satisfaction at the socio-economic changes in the area, Prince Aga Khan said “jobs have been created; new skills acquired and commercial opportunities created”.
“This place will serve as a model for other cultural sites in the world,”
he said.
Secretary (Tourism) Lalit Pawar said the main beneficiary of the effort is the Ministry of Tourism while Secretary (Culture) Ravindra Singh said the public-private partnership model such as the one between Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and AKTC in Humayun’s Tomb restoration needed to be emulated at other World Heritage Sites in the country.
Written by Sumegha Gulati | New Delhi | Published on:April 8, 2015 3:27 am
Replicate Humayun’s Tomb work at Taj Mahal: Aga trust told
Minister Mahesh Sharma with His Highness the Aga Khan on Tuesday. (Source: Express Photo by Neeraj Priyadarshi)
Written by Sumegha Gulati | New Delhi | Published on:April 8, 2015 3:27 am
Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Mahesh Sharma on Tuesday said the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) must “associate itself” and replicate its restoration work at the Humayun’s Tomb in “another, very important” monument — the Taj Mahal. He was speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony of the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum here.
Responding, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV said, “We, at AKTC, try to be very humble to historic buildings. I am not sure we would dare touch the Taj Mahal. But if there’s anything we can do, we will do,” and the audience burst into applause.
The construction of the museum has now begun. Located at the entrance of the World Heritage Site, the museum is being built at a cost of Rs 49 crore funded by the Union Ministry of Tourism and will reportedly take 30 months to be completed. AKTC officials said the museum expects an estimated 2 million visitors annually.
Inspired by the baolis of northern India, the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum is the first “sunken” museum of its kind in the country and will serve as a bridge between the presently segregated sites of Hazrat Nizamuddin, Sundar Nursery and Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti. The underground museum, with a built-up area of 9,000 square metres, will ensure that visuals to 16th century monuments such as the Sabz Burz, Isa Khan’s tomb etc., are not disturbed.
According to AKTC officials, gallery spaces inside the museum will be arranged as intersecting squares and will be illuminated by natural light filtering in through skylights and open courtyards. The main structure where galleries are being located is at a depth of six meters below ground level.
The restored copper finial, which had broken down in a storm in May last year, will be put up for display at the Finial Gallery here. AKTC had recently installed a new replica of the finial at the tomb.
Multiple ticket counters, public amenities and a café, as well as a souvenir shop, an auditorium, a library, crafts gallery and seminar rooms are other features.
Asserting that Humayun’s Tomb still represents the ideals of universal tolerance that Humayun and his son emperor Akbar represented, Prince Aga Khan said the tomb “staggers imagination to think what was created here in Mughal times” in terms of scale and grandeur. The monument had continued to inspire future generations, he added.
He also emphasised on the importance of green public spaces — one of the targets of AKTC’s Nizamuddin Urban Renewal Initiative. Expressing satisfaction at the socio-economic changes in the area, Prince Aga Khan said “jobs have been created; new skills acquired and commercial opportunities created”.
“This place will serve as a model for other cultural sites in the world,”
he said.
Secretary (Tourism) Lalit Pawar said the main beneficiary of the effort is the Ministry of Tourism while Secretary (Culture) Ravindra Singh said the public-private partnership model such as the one between Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and AKTC in Humayun’s Tomb restoration needed to be emulated at other World Heritage Sites in the country.
Speech Aga Khan at Humayan’s Tomb Site Museum in Delhi
akdn.org/Content/1325
Remarks by His Highness the Aga Khan at the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for the Humayan’s Tomb Site Museum in Delhi, India
07 April 2015
Bismillah-ir-Rahim-ir-Rahim
Honorable Minister of Tourism and Culture Dr. Mahesh Sharma
Secretary Mr. Ravindra Singh
Secretary Dr. Lalit Panwar
You have been most generous with your comments this afternoon and I thank you warmly for the encouragement you have given to the people of the Trust for Culture and myself. And I would like to begin these comments by repeating what I said when the foundation-stone was laid sometime ago of the restoration of the Humayun’s Tomb.
We are a partnership. We are not working alone with the Trust for Culture. We are working in a magnificent partnership between public authority and private initiative.
And if we did not have that support from the government, the Archeological Society and others we could never achieve what we have been able to achieve up to now.
His Excellency the Minister referred to the Taj Mahal. We have learnt in the Trust for Culture to be very humble in front of exceptional historic buildings. I am not sure we would dare touch the Taj Mahal. But if that is what is requested and we can contribute in some way, we will.
Excellencies
Distinguished Guests
I would like to extend to you all my warmest welcome goes out to all of you today – as we share together in this foundation stone ceremony.
Even as I welcome you, I also want to thank you – not only for your presence, but also for the support you have given in so many ways, as partners in this path-breaking restoration project.
Some of you were here – just a year and a half ago – when we inaugurated this Tomb complex. I said that day that “partnership was the watchword” in the work of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture – and for this project in particular. So I welcome you – and I salute you – in that Spirit of Partnership.
This Museum, as you may know, has been designed as a Gateway – a Connecting Point -located at the juncture of three historically connected sites: Humayun's Tomb and its Gardens, Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti, and the Sundar Nursery.
In connecting these sites, the Museum will also serve as a bridge between the present and the past – linking the modern city of Delhi to its remarkable heritage – and thus providing a Gateway to a truly extraordinary period of human history.
That remarkable chapter in the human story extended over 170 years – the era of the Mughal empire. It was a time of enormous accomplishment – and enormous significance. Geographically it covered much of what is now India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. In terms of governance, it included hundreds of millions of people, covering an enormous spectrum of religious faiths, cultural practices, and ethnic identities.
It was led by men whose talents in statehood and in military affairs were remarkable – and their impact was felt in virtually every dimension of human existence, both within the empire and outside. Many of the Mughal rulers, perhaps most of them, were also exceptional leaders in the acumen and insight which they brought to their leadership roles. They were statesmen who would have excelled in any time.
Consider, for example, Humayun himself, who governed an area of one million square kilometers – and who was remembered as much for his peaceful and forgiving temperament as for his military conquests. His rhetoric was said to be non-provocative, his style that of a diplomat. And it was these qualities that were inherited by his son, the Emperor Akbar, who further broadened the Empire – and who strengthened it through a policy of universal tolerance – one that welcomed the vast diversity of his many subjects.
So to use a well-worn but well-considered phrase, it “staggers the imagination” to think of what was created here during the Mughal period, on a scale and with a splendor that had not existed before. And its accomplishments have continued to inspire subsequent generations.
Through the centuries, millions of people have made their way here. They have come to see these architectural achievements – the oldest and largest Indo-Islamic architectural complex. They have come to admire the decorative genius that we have around us – and to think about its continuing influence in contemporary life.. They have come to enjoy the green spaces that are such an essential part of this complex – reflecting the profound harmony that can ideally unite our natural and our built environments.
And now, as a new Museum is born on this site, visitors will be able to learn in greater depth why these legacies were built, how they served the court and society more generally, and what they have meant since.
They will also be able to share in the lessons that have been learned as these sites have been restored – in ways that have enhanced the social and economic life of the surrounding communities. New jobs have been created, new skills have been mastered, new commercial opportunities have been opened, and new environmental protections have been fostered.
I would mention here, as one example, the lessons we have learned about urban green spaces – which too often have been seen as unproductive areas, at best, and even as financial liabilities. But the experience of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture has been very, very different. In places as varied as Cairo and Kabul, and now here in Delhi, green spaces have generated enough income not only to cover their maintenance costs, but also to drive a broad range of further developments – while immensely enriching the quality of urban life.
In these and many other ways, the valuable lessons that have been learned here will make this space a model for other cultural sites around the world.
And so it is that we express our gratitude to The Ministry of Tourism, and to all the other partners who have joined with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in this important work. We are deeply thankful for the opportunity we have been given by the Government of India to participate in the revival of 170 years of unique human history here in India.
And again, we thank you for celebrating with us today the legacy of a distinguished past – and its potential to enrich our future.
Thank you.
Remarks by His Highness the Aga Khan at the Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for the Humayan’s Tomb Site Museum in Delhi, India
07 April 2015
Bismillah-ir-Rahim-ir-Rahim
Honorable Minister of Tourism and Culture Dr. Mahesh Sharma
Secretary Mr. Ravindra Singh
Secretary Dr. Lalit Panwar
You have been most generous with your comments this afternoon and I thank you warmly for the encouragement you have given to the people of the Trust for Culture and myself. And I would like to begin these comments by repeating what I said when the foundation-stone was laid sometime ago of the restoration of the Humayun’s Tomb.
We are a partnership. We are not working alone with the Trust for Culture. We are working in a magnificent partnership between public authority and private initiative.
And if we did not have that support from the government, the Archeological Society and others we could never achieve what we have been able to achieve up to now.
His Excellency the Minister referred to the Taj Mahal. We have learnt in the Trust for Culture to be very humble in front of exceptional historic buildings. I am not sure we would dare touch the Taj Mahal. But if that is what is requested and we can contribute in some way, we will.
Excellencies
Distinguished Guests
I would like to extend to you all my warmest welcome goes out to all of you today – as we share together in this foundation stone ceremony.
Even as I welcome you, I also want to thank you – not only for your presence, but also for the support you have given in so many ways, as partners in this path-breaking restoration project.
Some of you were here – just a year and a half ago – when we inaugurated this Tomb complex. I said that day that “partnership was the watchword” in the work of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture – and for this project in particular. So I welcome you – and I salute you – in that Spirit of Partnership.
This Museum, as you may know, has been designed as a Gateway – a Connecting Point -located at the juncture of three historically connected sites: Humayun's Tomb and its Gardens, Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti, and the Sundar Nursery.
In connecting these sites, the Museum will also serve as a bridge between the present and the past – linking the modern city of Delhi to its remarkable heritage – and thus providing a Gateway to a truly extraordinary period of human history.
That remarkable chapter in the human story extended over 170 years – the era of the Mughal empire. It was a time of enormous accomplishment – and enormous significance. Geographically it covered much of what is now India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. In terms of governance, it included hundreds of millions of people, covering an enormous spectrum of religious faiths, cultural practices, and ethnic identities.
It was led by men whose talents in statehood and in military affairs were remarkable – and their impact was felt in virtually every dimension of human existence, both within the empire and outside. Many of the Mughal rulers, perhaps most of them, were also exceptional leaders in the acumen and insight which they brought to their leadership roles. They were statesmen who would have excelled in any time.
Consider, for example, Humayun himself, who governed an area of one million square kilometers – and who was remembered as much for his peaceful and forgiving temperament as for his military conquests. His rhetoric was said to be non-provocative, his style that of a diplomat. And it was these qualities that were inherited by his son, the Emperor Akbar, who further broadened the Empire – and who strengthened it through a policy of universal tolerance – one that welcomed the vast diversity of his many subjects.
So to use a well-worn but well-considered phrase, it “staggers the imagination” to think of what was created here during the Mughal period, on a scale and with a splendor that had not existed before. And its accomplishments have continued to inspire subsequent generations.
Through the centuries, millions of people have made their way here. They have come to see these architectural achievements – the oldest and largest Indo-Islamic architectural complex. They have come to admire the decorative genius that we have around us – and to think about its continuing influence in contemporary life.. They have come to enjoy the green spaces that are such an essential part of this complex – reflecting the profound harmony that can ideally unite our natural and our built environments.
And now, as a new Museum is born on this site, visitors will be able to learn in greater depth why these legacies were built, how they served the court and society more generally, and what they have meant since.
They will also be able to share in the lessons that have been learned as these sites have been restored – in ways that have enhanced the social and economic life of the surrounding communities. New jobs have been created, new skills have been mastered, new commercial opportunities have been opened, and new environmental protections have been fostered.
I would mention here, as one example, the lessons we have learned about urban green spaces – which too often have been seen as unproductive areas, at best, and even as financial liabilities. But the experience of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture has been very, very different. In places as varied as Cairo and Kabul, and now here in Delhi, green spaces have generated enough income not only to cover their maintenance costs, but also to drive a broad range of further developments – while immensely enriching the quality of urban life.
In these and many other ways, the valuable lessons that have been learned here will make this space a model for other cultural sites around the world.
And so it is that we express our gratitude to The Ministry of Tourism, and to all the other partners who have joined with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in this important work. We are deeply thankful for the opportunity we have been given by the Government of India to participate in the revival of 170 years of unique human history here in India.
And again, we thank you for celebrating with us today the legacy of a distinguished past – and its potential to enrich our future.
Thank you.
akdn.org/Content/1324
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, India's Minister of Tourism & Culture, and His Highness the Aga Khan at the ceremony marking the laying of the foundation stone of the new Humayun's Tomb Site Museum. Credit: Narendra Swain, AKTC
Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum Launched by India’s Minister of Tourism and Culture and Aga Khan
Delhi, India, 7 April 2015 – His Excellency Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of Tourism & Culture, and His Highness the Aga Khan today launched construction of a site museum at the Humayun’s Tomb Complex, one of the 25 Adarsh or “model” monuments recently designated by the Government of India’s Ministry of Culture. Construction is expected to take 30 months.
In his speech at the ceremony marking the laying of the foundation stone, His Highness the Aga Khan remarked that it “’staggers the imagination’ to think of what was created here during the Mughal period, on a scale and with a splendour that had not existed before. And its accomplishments have continued to inspire subsequent generations.”
The need for a museum and visitor centre at this world heritage site became apparent in recent years. Two million people visit the Humayan’s Tomb complex annually, including over 500,000 children. An even larger number of pilgrims – from across the world and of many faiths – visit the adjoining Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the 14th century Sufi saint.
In response to the dramatic increase in visitors, the Archaeological Survey of India called for the creation of a Site Museum. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) – which has undertaken conservation works on over 50 monuments in Delhi, including the restoration of Humayun’s Tomb – proposed the construction of a state-of-the-art site museum to be built at the entrance to the World Heritage Site. The Ministry of Tourism has pledged Rs 49 Crores (US$ 8.0 million) towards the construction cost of the Site Museum.
India’s Minister of Tourism & Culture, Dr Mahesh Sharma, said that the project was “a classical example of synergy between the government and a non-profit organisation in preserving the heritage of the country and taking it to the world.”
The Museum’s aims include a better understanding of Mughal architecture and building craft traditions, but it will also shed light on the development of the Nizamuddin area over the last millennium. Perhaps most significantly, it will highlight the area’s pluralist cultural traditions, which defined Hindustani culture for at least five centuries.
His Highness the Aga Khan also remarked that the Museum will allow visitors to learn more about how the Mughal “legacies were built, how they served the court and society more generally, and what they have meant since. They will also be able to share in the lessons that have been learned as these sites have been restored -- in ways that have enhanced the social and economic life of the surrounding communities. New jobs have been created, new skills have been mastered, new commercial opportunities have been opened, and new environmental protections have been fostered.”
The Site Museum will include a permanent exhibit, galleries for temporary exhibits, an auditorium for film screenings, a souvenirs shop and a café. Live demonstrations of building crafts such as stonework and plaster work, as well as other prominent Mughal crafts, will be a permanent activity.
The Museum is also expected to serve as a starting point for tourists interested in touring other prominent monuments of Mughal India, including the Taj Mahal, which was built after – and inspired by – Humayun’s Tomb.
The sunken, low-profile design, which was inspired by the traditional baolis of northern India, ensures that the visual aesthetics of adjacent 16th century monuments, such as the Sabz Burj, Isa Khan’s Tomb and Sundarwala Burj, will not be disturbed. For more information about the Site Museum, please see the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum brief.
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) has been carrying out conservation work in the Humayun’s Tomb area for nearly 15 years. Its engagement began with the Humayun’s Tomb Garden revitalisation project, a gift to India made by His Highness the Aga Khan on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.
Through a subsequent Public-Private Partnership (PPP) created at the invitation of the Government of India, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture’s engagement in the area expanded. Under the PPP, a broader urban revitalisation project was created to encompass an urban renewal initiative in Nizamuddin Basti, the redevelopment of the Sundar Nursery - Batashewala Complex into a 100-acre city park, significant improvements to the quality of life for the residents of Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti, the conservation of Humayun’s Tomb itself, and the restoration of associated structures.
The aim of the PPP, as with all such projects undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, is to revitalise historic urban centres in ways that can spur social, economic and cultural development. In Nizamuddin, for example, AKTC projects include a wide spectrum of programmes, from early childhood development to adult vocational training, from sanitation to waste management, housing improvement to street upgrading, from the landscaping of neighbourhood parks to the revival of cultural traditions. In each endeavour, AKTC has worked in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Central Public Works Department.
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, India's Minister of Tourism & Culture, and His Highness the Aga Khan at the ceremony marking the laying of the foundation stone of the new Humayun's Tomb Site Museum. Credit: Narendra Swain, AKTC
Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum Launched by India’s Minister of Tourism and Culture and Aga Khan
Delhi, India, 7 April 2015 – His Excellency Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of Tourism & Culture, and His Highness the Aga Khan today launched construction of a site museum at the Humayun’s Tomb Complex, one of the 25 Adarsh or “model” monuments recently designated by the Government of India’s Ministry of Culture. Construction is expected to take 30 months.
In his speech at the ceremony marking the laying of the foundation stone, His Highness the Aga Khan remarked that it “’staggers the imagination’ to think of what was created here during the Mughal period, on a scale and with a splendour that had not existed before. And its accomplishments have continued to inspire subsequent generations.”
The need for a museum and visitor centre at this world heritage site became apparent in recent years. Two million people visit the Humayan’s Tomb complex annually, including over 500,000 children. An even larger number of pilgrims – from across the world and of many faiths – visit the adjoining Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the 14th century Sufi saint.
In response to the dramatic increase in visitors, the Archaeological Survey of India called for the creation of a Site Museum. The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) – which has undertaken conservation works on over 50 monuments in Delhi, including the restoration of Humayun’s Tomb – proposed the construction of a state-of-the-art site museum to be built at the entrance to the World Heritage Site. The Ministry of Tourism has pledged Rs 49 Crores (US$ 8.0 million) towards the construction cost of the Site Museum.
India’s Minister of Tourism & Culture, Dr Mahesh Sharma, said that the project was “a classical example of synergy between the government and a non-profit organisation in preserving the heritage of the country and taking it to the world.”
The Museum’s aims include a better understanding of Mughal architecture and building craft traditions, but it will also shed light on the development of the Nizamuddin area over the last millennium. Perhaps most significantly, it will highlight the area’s pluralist cultural traditions, which defined Hindustani culture for at least five centuries.
His Highness the Aga Khan also remarked that the Museum will allow visitors to learn more about how the Mughal “legacies were built, how they served the court and society more generally, and what they have meant since. They will also be able to share in the lessons that have been learned as these sites have been restored -- in ways that have enhanced the social and economic life of the surrounding communities. New jobs have been created, new skills have been mastered, new commercial opportunities have been opened, and new environmental protections have been fostered.”
The Site Museum will include a permanent exhibit, galleries for temporary exhibits, an auditorium for film screenings, a souvenirs shop and a café. Live demonstrations of building crafts such as stonework and plaster work, as well as other prominent Mughal crafts, will be a permanent activity.
The Museum is also expected to serve as a starting point for tourists interested in touring other prominent monuments of Mughal India, including the Taj Mahal, which was built after – and inspired by – Humayun’s Tomb.
The sunken, low-profile design, which was inspired by the traditional baolis of northern India, ensures that the visual aesthetics of adjacent 16th century monuments, such as the Sabz Burj, Isa Khan’s Tomb and Sundarwala Burj, will not be disturbed. For more information about the Site Museum, please see the Humayun’s Tomb Site Museum brief.
The Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) has been carrying out conservation work in the Humayun’s Tomb area for nearly 15 years. Its engagement began with the Humayun’s Tomb Garden revitalisation project, a gift to India made by His Highness the Aga Khan on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.
Through a subsequent Public-Private Partnership (PPP) created at the invitation of the Government of India, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture’s engagement in the area expanded. Under the PPP, a broader urban revitalisation project was created to encompass an urban renewal initiative in Nizamuddin Basti, the redevelopment of the Sundar Nursery - Batashewala Complex into a 100-acre city park, significant improvements to the quality of life for the residents of Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti, the conservation of Humayun’s Tomb itself, and the restoration of associated structures.
The aim of the PPP, as with all such projects undertaken by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, is to revitalise historic urban centres in ways that can spur social, economic and cultural development. In Nizamuddin, for example, AKTC projects include a wide spectrum of programmes, from early childhood development to adult vocational training, from sanitation to waste management, housing improvement to street upgrading, from the landscaping of neighbourhood parks to the revival of cultural traditions. In each endeavour, AKTC has worked in partnership with the Archaeological Survey of India, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the Central Public Works Department.
zeenews.india.com/news/india/prince-karim-aga-khan-to-be-accorded-padma-vibhushan_1575200.html
Prince Karim Aga Khan to be accorded Padma Vibhushan
Last Updated: Wednesday, April 8, 2015 - 10:19
New Delhi: Prince Karim Aga Khan will be accorded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award by President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, Prince Karim Aga Khan had called on the President, assuring that the Aga Khan Development Network would continue to work in India and establish best practices in heritage conservation.
He also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, informing him that the Aga Khan Foundation is undertaking the construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with Gujarat.
The Padma Vibhushan is the second highest civilian award in India.
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H.H. The Aga Khan received today 8 April 2015 India's Padma Bhushan Award. [see the medal on his vest and the certificate in his hand
Some photos here
Prince Karim Aga Khan to be accorded Padma Vibhushan
Last Updated: Wednesday, April 8, 2015 - 10:19
New Delhi: Prince Karim Aga Khan will be accorded the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award by President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, Prince Karim Aga Khan had called on the President, assuring that the Aga Khan Development Network would continue to work in India and establish best practices in heritage conservation.
He also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, informing him that the Aga Khan Foundation is undertaking the construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with Gujarat.
The Padma Vibhushan is the second highest civilian award in India.
--------------------------------------------------
H.H. The Aga Khan received today 8 April 2015 India's Padma Bhushan Award. [see the medal on his vest and the certificate in his hand
Some photos here
Last edited by Admin on Wed Apr 08, 2015 3:10 am, edited 3 times in total.
economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/bollywood-megastar-amitabh-bachchan-religious-leader-aga-khan-and-48-others-given-padma-awards/articleshow/46850171.cms
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, religious leader Aga Khan and 48 others given Padma awards
By PTI | 8 Apr, 2015, 04.13PM IST
NEW DELHI: Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Shia leader Prince Karim Aga Khan were among five eminent personalities who were conferred with country's second highest civilian award Padma Vibhushan by President Pranab Mukherjee here today.
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, religious leader Aga Khan and 48 others given Padma awards
By PTI | 8 Apr, 2015, 04.13PM IST
NEW DELHI: Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Shia leader Prince Karim Aga Khan were among five eminent personalities who were conferred with country's second highest civilian award Padma Vibhushan by President Pranab Mukherjee here today.
tribune.com.pk/story/866618/prime-karim-aga-khan-receives-civil-award-in-india/
Prince Karim Aga Khan shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PHOTO: pmindia.gov.in/
Prince Karim Aga Khan receives civil award in India
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan received on Wednesday the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award in India.
The civilian award was presented to him by Indian President Pranab Mukherjee during a ceremony, according to NDTV.
The Aga Khan is currently on a visit to India and also met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.
“The prime minister praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation, especially in the areas of rural development and sanitation, which, he said, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat,” an official handout said.
Modi asked the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in the “Swachh Bharat” and “Ganga Rejuvenation” initiatives. He also sought the Foundation’s participation in building toilets for girl children.
Prince Karim Aga Khan said he was honoured to be receiving the Padma Vibhushan. He said the Aga Khan Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with the state of Gujarat.
Aga Khan added that the Foundation was also involved in initiatives to promote health and hygiene, and to ensure potable water supply.
Modi and Prince Karim Aga Khan also discussed the current situation in West Asia.
Prince Karim Aga Khan shakes hands with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PHOTO: pmindia.gov.in/
Prince Karim Aga Khan receives civil award in India
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan received on Wednesday the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest civilian award in India.
The civilian award was presented to him by Indian President Pranab Mukherjee during a ceremony, according to NDTV.
The Aga Khan is currently on a visit to India and also met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.
“The prime minister praised the work of the Aga Khan Foundation, especially in the areas of rural development and sanitation, which, he said, he had the opportunity to witness first-hand when he was Chief Minister of Gujarat,” an official handout said.
Modi asked the Aga Khan Foundation to play a key role in the “Swachh Bharat” and “Ganga Rejuvenation” initiatives. He also sought the Foundation’s participation in building toilets for girl children.
Prince Karim Aga Khan said he was honoured to be receiving the Padma Vibhushan. He said the Aga Khan Foundation was already undertaking the task of construction of one lakh toilets, beginning with the state of Gujarat.
Aga Khan added that the Foundation was also involved in initiatives to promote health and hygiene, and to ensure potable water supply.
Modi and Prince Karim Aga Khan also discussed the current situation in West Asia.
indianexpress.com/photos/picture-gallery-others/indias-first-sunken-museum-prince-karim-aga-khan-lays-foundation-stone/6/
India’s 'first' sunken museum; Prince Karim Aga Khan lays foundation stone
Prince Aga Khan, sunken museum, Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi, Indian tourism minister, Mahesh Sharma, Aga Khan, Luis Monreal, Aga Khan Trust for Culture, state-of-the-art site museum, Taj Mahal, Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Narendra Modi, PM Modi, #InPictures, Gallery, News, India news, New Delhi news, News
Billionaire philanthropist and leader of Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV is on a six-day visit to India. (Source: AP)
indianexpress.com/photos/picture-gallery-others/prince-karim-aga-khan-others-receive-padam-vibhushan/
Prince Karim Aga Khan, others receive Padam Vibhushan
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and Prince Karim Aga Khan were among the eminent personalities awarded the Padma Vibhushan, country’s second highest civilian honour, by President Pranab Mukherjee here on Wednesday. (Source: Express photo by Renuka Puri)
India’s 'first' sunken museum; Prince Karim Aga Khan lays foundation stone
Prince Aga Khan, sunken museum, Humayun’s Tomb, New Delhi, Indian tourism minister, Mahesh Sharma, Aga Khan, Luis Monreal, Aga Khan Trust for Culture, state-of-the-art site museum, Taj Mahal, Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Narendra Modi, PM Modi, #InPictures, Gallery, News, India news, New Delhi news, News
Billionaire philanthropist and leader of Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV is on a six-day visit to India. (Source: AP)
indianexpress.com/photos/picture-gallery-others/prince-karim-aga-khan-others-receive-padam-vibhushan/
Prince Karim Aga Khan, others receive Padam Vibhushan
Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and Prince Karim Aga Khan were among the eminent personalities awarded the Padma Vibhushan, country’s second highest civilian honour, by President Pranab Mukherjee here on Wednesday. (Source: Express photo by Renuka Puri)
deccanherald.com/content/471021/prince-aga-khan-reviews-academy.html
Prince Aga Khan reviews Academy work
HYDERABAD, April 11, 2015, DHNS:
The spiritual leader of the Ismaili sect Prince Karim Al Hussaini Aga Khan, founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, visited the Aga Khan Academy here on Friday to review progress of the school.
The Aga Khan was accompanied by his son Prince AlyMuhammed, his daughter Princess Zahra and her children Sara and Iliyan. The visit to the academy allowed the Aga Khan to assess first-hand the progress made since his last visit in September 2013 when the school was formally inaugurated.
While at the academy, the Aga Khan toured the campus including the Athletics Centre, the Junior and Senior Schools, as well as the student residences. Together with members of his family, he met and interacted with teachers, staff and students.
Kais Khetani, a grade 10 student, showcased the prototype for a solar-powered car. He was among several students who demonstrated their work to the Aga Khan and his family. Khetani’s fascination with solar technology began when he was in grade 5. The organisers turned him away believing he was too young. “They felt I wouldn’t be able to understand solar power,” he said.
Grade 11 student Khushboo Khoja’s project focused on social change. After she started volunteering in a Telugu-medium girl’s school in grade 9, she realised students did not get adequate exposure to English outside of a handful of lessons each week. She set out to build an English library and reading club in the school to help them improve their English and share her love of reading. Dedicated to pursuing social change, Kais and Khushboo, are among students who embody the Academy’s goal of bettering the society around it, a statement issued by the academy here said.
The Aga Khan is on a week-long official visit to India.
On April 8, he received the Padma Vibushan, one of the country’s highest civilian decorations, for his contributions to social development in India. A day earlier, the Aga Khan and Minister for Culture, Mahesh Sharma, presided over the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the new Site Museum at the Humayun’s Tomb complex in Delhi.
The Aga Khan Academy, Hyderabad, is a not-for-profit school situated on a 100-acre campus near the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. It is the second in a global network of day and residential schools being established across South and Central Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
The school provides talented girls and boys from all backgrounds with an all-round education of the highest international standards. Students are admitted based on merit, and a substantial number of full and partial bursaries are offered, ensuring that socio-economic status does not limit access.
Prince Aga Khan reviews Academy work
HYDERABAD, April 11, 2015, DHNS:
The spiritual leader of the Ismaili sect Prince Karim Al Hussaini Aga Khan, founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, visited the Aga Khan Academy here on Friday to review progress of the school.
The Aga Khan was accompanied by his son Prince AlyMuhammed, his daughter Princess Zahra and her children Sara and Iliyan. The visit to the academy allowed the Aga Khan to assess first-hand the progress made since his last visit in September 2013 when the school was formally inaugurated.
While at the academy, the Aga Khan toured the campus including the Athletics Centre, the Junior and Senior Schools, as well as the student residences. Together with members of his family, he met and interacted with teachers, staff and students.
Kais Khetani, a grade 10 student, showcased the prototype for a solar-powered car. He was among several students who demonstrated their work to the Aga Khan and his family. Khetani’s fascination with solar technology began when he was in grade 5. The organisers turned him away believing he was too young. “They felt I wouldn’t be able to understand solar power,” he said.
Grade 11 student Khushboo Khoja’s project focused on social change. After she started volunteering in a Telugu-medium girl’s school in grade 9, she realised students did not get adequate exposure to English outside of a handful of lessons each week. She set out to build an English library and reading club in the school to help them improve their English and share her love of reading. Dedicated to pursuing social change, Kais and Khushboo, are among students who embody the Academy’s goal of bettering the society around it, a statement issued by the academy here said.
The Aga Khan is on a week-long official visit to India.
On April 8, he received the Padma Vibushan, one of the country’s highest civilian decorations, for his contributions to social development in India. A day earlier, the Aga Khan and Minister for Culture, Mahesh Sharma, presided over the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the new Site Museum at the Humayun’s Tomb complex in Delhi.
The Aga Khan Academy, Hyderabad, is a not-for-profit school situated on a 100-acre campus near the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. It is the second in a global network of day and residential schools being established across South and Central Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
The school provides talented girls and boys from all backgrounds with an all-round education of the highest international standards. Students are admitted based on merit, and a substantial number of full and partial bursaries are offered, ensuring that socio-economic status does not limit access.
newswala.com/Hyderabad-News/Shia-Ismaili-Muslims-leader-Aga-Khan-meets-Dy-CM-Mahmood-Ali-152828.html
Shia Ismaili Muslims leader Aga Khan meets Dy CM Mahmood Ali
Hyderabad, April 11, 2015: Spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims Aga Khan met Deputy Chief Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali here on Saturday.
Aga Khan, the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), was accompanied by senior officials from the network. The delegation of the Deputy Chief Minister comprised of Principal Secretaries Ranjeev R Acharya (Higher Education), B.P. Acharya (Tourism), Ajay Misra (Political Affairs), GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar and Advisor Venkata Papa Rao. The meeting focused on areas of cooperation between AKDN and the State of Telangana.
The Deputy CM congratulated Aga Khan on receiving the Padma Vibhushan Award. He praised the existing cooperation with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture on the restoration of Qutb Shahi tombs as well as the collaboration on teacher development with the Aga Khan Academy. He urged the Aga Khan Development Network to further intensify its development activities in Telangana in the areas of education, culture and economic development. (INN)
Shia Ismaili Muslims leader Aga Khan meets Dy CM Mahmood Ali
Hyderabad, April 11, 2015: Spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims Aga Khan met Deputy Chief Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali here on Saturday.
Aga Khan, the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), was accompanied by senior officials from the network. The delegation of the Deputy Chief Minister comprised of Principal Secretaries Ranjeev R Acharya (Higher Education), B.P. Acharya (Tourism), Ajay Misra (Political Affairs), GHMC Commissioner Somesh Kumar and Advisor Venkata Papa Rao. The meeting focused on areas of cooperation between AKDN and the State of Telangana.
The Deputy CM congratulated Aga Khan on receiving the Padma Vibhushan Award. He praised the existing cooperation with the Aga Khan Trust for Culture on the restoration of Qutb Shahi tombs as well as the collaboration on teacher development with the Aga Khan Academy. He urged the Aga Khan Development Network to further intensify its development activities in Telangana in the areas of education, culture and economic development. (INN)
