The mound of Jajmau that is also called Jajmau is one
of the most important and the most visited tourist destination in
Kanpur. In fact, the mound of Jajmau is considered an important
excavation sine in not only Uttar Pradesh but also in India. The mound
of Jajmau that is located on the eastern end of Kanpur occupies a high
place among ancient cities of the region. Excavations of the mound were
undertaken during 1957-58 that unearthed antiquities ranging from 700 BC
to 1600 AD. These excavations resulted in unearthing various items that
throw a light on the life and times of later Vedic period and beyond.
Items that have been excavated include potteries, utensils and busts
among others.
Jajmau has a generous mention in Hindu mythologies too. The place has
been mentioned numerous times in Puranas and Kands. Jajmau is mentioned
as Siddhapuri in ancient times. It is widely believed that it was the
kingdom of Yayati, the Pauranic king who was famous for his valor and
wit. It is also believed that the high mound overhanging the Ganges was
the site of his fort.
Jajmau of today houses the Siddhnath and Siddha Devi temples and the
mausoleum of Makhdoom Shah Ala-ul-Haq. Makhdoom Shah was a famous Sufi
saint and the champion of secularism. Feroze Shah Tughlaq built the tomb
of this famous Sufi saint in the year 1358. A mosque built by Kulich
Khan in 1679 AD also stands here.
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