The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has announced a three-day programme of heritage walks, cultural performances, and hands-on workshops at three of Delhi's most storied sites to mark World Heritage Week from 19 to 21 November. The events — spread across Deer Park (Hauz Khas), Mehrauli Archaeological Park, and Coronation Park — are being organised on the directions of Delhi Lieutenant Governor and DDA Chairperson T.S. Singh Sandhu.

Programme Overview

The three-day festival aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi' (Development as well as Heritage), according to the official DDA statement. Each day focuses on a distinct site and audience, combining guided heritage exploration with artistic and educational activities.

Day 1: Heritage Walk at Deer Park, Hauz Khas (19 November)

The opening day will host a heritage walk for school students at Deer Park, Hauz Khas, organised in association with the INTACH Delhi Chapter. Participants will explore significant medieval structures including Bagh-I-Alam ka Gumbad, Kali Gumbad, Tohfe Wala Gumbad, and Munda Gumbad, as well as Hauz Khas Tank and Fort. The walk will also highlight the historical importance of water body conservation and rejuvenation — a theme increasingly relevant to Delhi's environmental discourse.

Day 2: Heritage Evening at Mehrauli Archaeological Park (20 November)

On 20 November, a heritage walk open to the general public will traverse Mehrauli Archaeological Park, introducing visitors to the area's layered historical and architectural legacy. Key stops will include Jamali Kamali, Metcalfe Folly (Balban's Tomb), Metcalfe Boathouse, Quli Khan's Tomb, and the Mehrauli Interpretation Centre. The evening will conclude with a live cultural performance by internationally recognised violinist Johar Ali Khan, adding an artistic dimension to the day's heritage immersion.

Day 3: Heritage and Creativity at Coronation Park (21 November)

The third day, dedicated to heritage and creativity, shifts to Coronation Park. A heritage talk for students from Delhi University and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University will address heritage and sustainability, with special focus on iconography in Indian art and architectural heritage. Students will also participate in block printing and calligraphy workshops, providing hands-on engagement with traditional Indian art forms.

Significance and Context

World Heritage Week, observed globally in the third week of November, draws attention to the preservation of cultural and natural landmarks. Delhi, home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and dozens of protected monuments, is among India's richest cities for living heritage. This initiative represents the DDA's effort to bridge institutional conservation work with public awareness — particularly among young students who are the next stewards of these sites. Notably, all three chosen venues — Hauz Khas, Mehrauli, and Coronation Park — have undergone varying degrees of conservation attention in recent years, making the timing of these events pedagogically apt.