Information on Bibi Ka Maqbara (Aurangabad, Maharashtra) - History & Architecture

Bibi Ka Maqbara which is also renowned as Tomb of Lady can be considered as sole illustration of Mughal architecture which was commissioned by the sixth Mughal emperor Aurangzeb during the call of 17th century to pay tribute to the soulless corpse of his first wife, Diras Banu Begum.

The historic essence of Bibi Ka Maqbara which is perfectly located within the boundaries of Aurangabad, Maharashtra resembles the architectural phenomenon of Taj Mahal and because of its magnificent charm the site is remarked as Taj of Deccan by the local people. While entering the narrative gate of the monument the inscription that you will witness etches the name of architecture Attah Ullah and engineer Hanspat Rai who is believed to be the sole architects and designer of the testimonial.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Architecture

The architectural manifesto of Bibi ka Maqbara is formed in the shape of hexagon and the angles which are used to base the whole structure is ornamented by minarets. In late memory of Dilras Banu Begum, Prince Azam Shah the son of Aurangzeb took an initiative and completed the task during the call of 1660. The mausoleum which is set out in a Charbagh has colossal enclosures that measures around 458 m. the recesses of the monuments are classified by the pilasters and the minarets which are used to ornate the audacity of the site speaks the volume.

The main entrance of the monument which is located at the southern end is crafted by the foliage design beside that the brass plate which is used to decorate the exterior portrays the beauty of work. The stucco decoration and an extensive use of marble at dado level give that delicate edge which in turn has made the monument of the most aesthetic and historical stands of Mughal administration.

The mortal remains of the Dilras Banu Begum are placed perfectly at the ground level and the octagonal marble screen that surrounds the grave infuses the importance of the tombstone.

Bibi Ka Maqbara History

According to narrative accounts the monument was commissioned during the call of mid 16th century and the amount which was incurred to built the historic effigy was around Six Lakh, Sixty eight thousand, two hundred and three and seven annas. It is believed that Aurangzeb was not a great admirer of architecture but his Pearl Mosque at Delhi represents in fact reflects the different aspects of his character beside Pearl Mosque his vast investment to procure the prospect of Bibi Ka Maqbara defines his moral fiber.

According to Tavernier the marble which was used to construct the monument was imported from the mines of pink city, Jaipur. The contradictions of faith which can be trace from architectural brilliance or rather say in rivalry between Taj Mahal and Bibi ka Maqbara in fact made the deity of Taj superior as compare to proportions of the structure of the Bibi ka Maqbara.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Tourism Importance

In context of tourism the Taj of Deccan or poor men's Taj bags enough appreciation although as compare to Taj Mahal the budget deficit stands of the monuments cries no classification but still its inscription and narrative details entices traveler from across the world. Local visitors would require paying Rs 5 to visit the site and for foreigners they would require paying Rs 100 to witness the beauty of Bibi Ka Maqbara. While in Aurangabad, it is a must visit historical monument to witness the beauty of the architecture as well as to witness the masterpiece that stands with the same glory and pride even today.