Information on Firoz Shah Tughlaq's Tomb (New Delhi) - History & Architecture

The tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq is situated in the Hauz Khas Village, Old Delhi. Firoz Shah belonged from the Tughlaq dynasty of Delhi. He was a sultan who took keen curiosity in the field of architecture. Firoz Shah Tughlaq reigned on Delhi from the time period of 1351 to 1388. It was learnt from various available historical records that he had constructed several religious institutions, different schools along with earthworks. The design of the tomb is known to be quite simple with a reflection of artistic taste. The mausoleum is 15 foot in length and is identified to be a structure with Tughlaq architectural characteristics.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq's Tomb Architecture

The inspiring and remarkable architectural pattern of this particular monument offers fascinating insights regarding the designs and procedures innate to the era of that particular reign. His tomb lies in the centre of an educational institution or madrasa that was ordered to be constructed by him. The tomb is positioned in a particular way which guards the view of a water reservoir which is known by the name of Hauz Khas. This simple 15 foot structure in square shape is constructed with ashlar walls which is further plastered in lime and includes curved entrances and vertical crenellated parapets. A drum in octagonal shape is situated on top of the parapet for bearing the weight of a low and fairly sharp dome. The north as well as the west sides with regard to the tomb is adjacent to one of the portions of the educational institution. Numerous chattris and small arched constructions held up by pillars can be observed on the eastern side of the tomb. This particular region or area of the tomb accommodates other tombs which are known to be of the various spiritual teachers and holy persons. The tomb includes a platform which is shorter in comparison to the usual average height and is in the southern side of the tomb which is encircled with an elegant stone railing.

The tomb is 29 feet or 8.74 meters from within and is cemented with grey coloured stone slabs. The ceiling and the interiors of the dome or arch are adorned with different coloured strips that overlap each other. The stoops are additionally beautified with works of plaster together with chiselled scripts. The designs on the monument have been intricately carved and beautifully painted in elegant and soothing colours such as green, turquoise and deep red. The Quranic lines, floral patterns and medallions together coalesce so as to depict paradise.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq's Tomb History

Firoz Shah Tughlaq was the son of Razzab who was the brother of Ghazi Malik and was younger to him. Firoz Shah Tughlaq's mother was a princess of Dipalpur and was a Hindu. His mother was known to surrender herself to Razzab in order to protect her subjects from the clutches of cruelty and demands of the Turks. Firoz Shah was well coached and possessed great ability with respect to the field of management by his cousin Muhammad bin Tughlaq who also popularly known as the "man of ideas". The city of Firozabad was developed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq during 1350. Increased historic significance is focused on the tomb of Firoz Shah Tughlaq as the compound houses four nameless graves among which three are marble made and the other one or the fourth which is positioned close to the east entrance is solely made of plaster and debris. The main grave in the centre has been identified to be of Firoz Shah's and the other two marble ones of his grandson and son.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq's Tomb Tourism Significance

The Hauz Khas Village is believed to be a popular spot in Old Delhi owing to the several historical monuments within its premises. The historical significance of the place draws the attention of tourists across the globe and therefore, is frequently visited by people.