Tomb of Shah Begum, Khusro Bagh Khuldabad Prayagraj UP India.
In the city of Prayagraj, Khusro Bagh is a historical trail, where special monuments of Mughal architecture, in the form of tombs, are the center of attraction for art and architecture lovers. Among these Shah Begum’s Tomb which is a three storeyed mausoleum, is a key attraction.
This is a three storeyed sandstone tomb was built by Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1606 AD to 1620 AD. It was designed by the Aqa Raza who was the principal court artist in Mughals court. Jahangir himself was an art lover and Aqa Raza was his favorite artist.
Shah Begum was married to Prince Salim as she was the daughter of Kachhwaha Rajput King Bhagwant Das of Amer, Rajsthan. Her name was Manbhavati or Man Baisa and after the birth of Prince Khusro she was given the title of Shah Begum though Sultan Un Nisa Begum was the first child. She died in 1604 AD due to over consumption of Opium. She was the first and favourite wife of Jahangir.
This three-storied elegant mausoleum is situated on a high platform. Stone cladded walls are having various decorative motifs. Third floor is a grand square Cenotaph, having stone archways which are supporting the roof and stone overhangs. Dome is quite unique and similar to the Itmad Ud Daula’s Mausoleum which was built after this monument. Overhangs are supported by decorated stone brackets, and dome is surmounted by lotus petals, and a magnificent pinnacle at the centre of the dome. The superb calligraphy of Quranic verses in Arabic language is done by the best calligraphy artist of that time. To access the original grave there is a grand archway at ground level.
Tourists are not permitted to visit inside the mausoleum. It’s maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. It’s a major attraction among the tourists, history buffs, arts and architecture lovers, entry is free and easily accessible from the centre of the City.