The tank and the bowl
The name “Talkatora” itself carries a hint of mystery. It derives from the Hindi words “tal” (meaning tank) and “katora” (referring to a bowl). In the past, Talkatora was more than just a garden; it served as a tank and even a swimming pool during the Mughal era. The gentle slopes of the Delhi Ridge were ingeniously utilized to create terraced gardens, forming the foundation of this tranquil space.
The Maratha raid of 1737
History echoes through the garden’s pathways. On March 28, 1737, the Marathas, led by the valiant Bajirao, clashed with the Mughals near Talkatora. Seeking vengeance for their prior defeat at the Battle of Jalesar, the Marathas aimed to turn the tide. Although the Mughals ultimately prevailed, the memory of this fierce encounter lingers, adding an intriguing layer to Talkatora’s narrative.