Lost Glory: Three Heritage Cities That Once Ruled, Now Fading into History

Once thriving capitals, coveted for their wealth and strategic importance, these cities were the heart of empires—only to be forgotten over time. As World Heritage Day 2025 shines a spotlight on historic sites, let’s break the mold and revisit three remarkable cities that once commanded attention but now lie in obscurity.  

 

Eran, Madhya Pradesh: Nestled along the Bina River, Eran was once a provincial capital in the Gupta Empire, known as ‘Airanaka.’ Excavations have revealed habitation spanning nearly four millennia, with Mauryan-era coins, ancient inscriptions, and a towering Varaha sculpture that narrates mythological tales. Once a mint town, Eran’s influence stretched far beyond its borders, yet today, it remains a quiet archaeological treasure.  

 

Kalaburagi, Karnataka: Formerly known as Gulbarga, Kalaburagi was the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate in the 14th century. Its strategic location fueled trade and prosperity, leaving behind a rich architectural legacy blending Dakhni and Persian styles. Though its capital status was short-lived, the city still holds echoes of its past, with tombs and mosques scattered across its landscape, some repurposed by locals in unexpected ways.  

 

Bidar, Karnataka: A city of grandeur during the Bahmani and later the Barid Shahi dynasties, Bidar was a hub of Persian-influenced architecture and cultural brilliance. The imposing Bidar Fort, with its intricate Persian designs, once housed rulers who shaped the Deccan’s history. Despite its historical significance, Bidar remains overshadowed by more prominent heritage sites, waiting for its story to be rediscovered.  

 

These cities, once bustling centers of power, now stand as silent witnesses to history’s ebb and flow. Their forgotten grandeur reminds us that heritage is not just about preservation but about remembering the stories that shaped civilizations.  

 

Sources: Moneycontrol, Iconic Episode, Whatshot Delhi NCR.