NAKODAR: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has started chemical treatment of the interiors of the tomb of Muhammed Momin at Nakodar.
A protected monument, the tomb was built in 1612 over the remains of Ustab Muhammed Momin, also known as Ustad Mummamed Hussain alias Hafizae, a “tambura” player in the court of Emperor Akbar.
ASI expert Amit Mishra said they were using water-based chemicals to clean the interiors covered with a thick deposit of a mix of dust, smoke and bird droppings. Preservatives would subsequently be sprayed on the surface, to be topped by a protective coating of polymers.
All painted portions on the ceiling and walls would also be cleansed.
Misra said several layers of lime coating of the interiors would be removed, as would be micro-vegetation growth from the sidewalls.
The ASI’s science branch has just completed chemical treatment of the interiors of tomb of Hazi Jamal, pupil of Ustad Momin.
Chemical treatment of the exteriors of Ustad Momin’s tomb was carried out in 2003 and of Hazi Jamal’s in 2006.
The two historical tombs are among the 30 listed monuments and archaeological sites of national importance in Punjab.
It is said there were part of the once famous Mughal Garaden of the town, which has virtually disappeared with passage of time.
The Dakhani gate, which served as entrance to the Mughal Garden, is currently in a bad shape.
SOURCE-HT
