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Safdarjung Tomb, Delhi |
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The marble domed mausoleum or the Safdarjung's Tomb is the last living monumental splendor of the Mughals', which is aptly referred to as the -'Last flicker in the lamp of Mughal architecture in Delhi'. Erected by Nawab Shujaud-Daula in the 1626 AD for his father Mirza Muqim Abul Mansur Khan, the tomb is perhaps the most striking remnants of a dying empire that had wielded a series of architectural brilliance in India, including the legendary Taj Mahal, during its hey days. The tomb is renowned for its chattris, arched recesses and fine designs in incised and painted plaster adorning the interiors of the building.
Mirza Muqim Abul Mansur Khan was appointed the governor of Qudh by Emperor Muhammad Shah, and was subsequently raised to the post of Wazir (Prime Minister) during the reign of Emperor Ahmed Shah. After his death, his son built the tomb in the center of an extensive garden that runs over an area of 300 sq. m. A massive wall of 6 m in height encircled the tomb complex. In the east of the wall a huge gateway forms the main entrance, leading to the enclosure that rises to two levels.
Made of red and buff colored sandstone, the entire structure is seen standing on a raised platform flanked by two lovely pavilions on its either side- the Moti Mahal (Palace of Pearl), Jangli Mahal (Sylvan Palace) and Badshah Pasand (Emperor's Favorite). The structure stands over two graves, one of Safdarjung and the other is believed to be his wife's.
There are altogether eight apartments surrounded the central chamber of the mausoleum. With exception to the corner one all the other apartments are rectangular in shape. The tomb is topped by a triple dome that rise from a sixteen - sided base, which is 5 m in height.
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