Indian Columbus

Past the Arab Serai Gate, you arrive at the grand West Gate, the present-day entrance to Humayun’s Tomb. This imposing structure, though now the main access point, was not originally the primary entrance during the Mughal era. However, its design and scale make it a fitting prelude to the architectural brilliance that lies beyond. Positioned at the western end of the east-west axis, the West Gate is directly aligned with Humayun’s Tomb. Built from local grey quartzite with red sandstone dressing, this 16-meter-high gateway stands as a monumental darwaza, embodying both strength and elegance. The western façade extends outward, naturally guiding visitors into the garden complex, while the eastern side, designed as a lookout point, offers sweeping views of the symmetrical Mughal charbagh (garden) from three angles. The gateway’s structure reflects the signature elements of Mughal architecture. The central passage is flanked by rooms on either side, with small courtyards on the upper floo...

Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Humayun's Tomb complex in Delhi, the Afsarwala Tomb and its adjacent mosque stand as enduring markers of Mughal architectural and cultural legacy. Constructed in the mid-16th century during Emperor Akbar's reign, these structures carry a blend of historical intrigue and architectural finesse, offering a window into the past. The Tomb's Enigmatic Identity The Afsarwala Tomb houses the remains of an unidentified individual, sparking speculation about its origins. The name "Afsarwala" likely derives from the Persian word afsar, meaning "officer," suggesting that this could be the resting place of a high-ranking military commander. Some theories link the tomb to Abdul Fateh Sultan Afshar, a member of the Turkish Afshar tribe who accompanied Emperor Humayun during his return to India in 1555. Historical records indicate that Abdul Fateh chose to remain in India, possibly aligning him with the tomb’s creatio...

Tucked within the celebrated Humayun's Tomb complex in Delhi, Arab Ki Serai whispers stories from the Mughal era. Built in the 16th century, this caravanserai, a rest stop for travelers, stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural amalgamation of its time. Though much of its glory has faded, Arab Ki Serai continues to intrigue historians and visitors alike with its enigmatic origins and fascinating details. A Shelter for Pilgrims or Craftsmen? The origins of Arab Ki Serai are shrouded in debate. According to a few historians, it was commissioned in 1560 by Haji Begum, the widow of Mughal Emperor Humayun. She reportedly constructed the serai to house 300 Arab mullahs who accompanied her during her pilgrimage to Mecca. Yet, many other historians offer a different perspective, suggesting that the term "Arab" might be misleading. Instead, they propose that the serai was built for Persian craftsmen and laborers brought to India to construct Humayun's Tomb. Thi...

Amid the grandeur of Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi, where history whispers through its intricately carved walls and lush landscapes, lies a hidden jewel that often escapes the gaze of hurried visitors. Tucked on the western side of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bu Halima’s Garden and Tomb stand as silent witnesses to a forgotten chapter of the Mughal era. A Gateway to History As you step into the Humayun’s Tomb Complex, the first thing you encounter is the rectangular enclosure of Bu Halima’s Garden. With its neatly trimmed greenery and broad pathways, this serene space is often overshadowed by the towering magnificence of Humayun’s tomb itself. Yet, it holds its own charm, inviting the curious to explore its subtle mysteries. The garden with a beautiful entrance is simple, almost minimalist compared to the elaborate Mughal gardens nearby. However, it serves a critical purpose as the gateway to Humayun’s Tomb. Beyond the tranquil pathways lies a structure steeped in early Mughal architect...

Wallajah Mosque, often referred to as the Big Mosque, graces the Triplicane (Tiruvallikkeni) locality of Chennai. With its rich history, it stands as one of the city's oldest and most renowned mosques. Situated along Triplicane High Road, this majestic mosque was erected in 1794 CE in loving memory of Muhammad Ali Khan Wallajah, the Nawab of Arcot. Notably, the mosque's construction is a marvel, crafted entirely from granite without the use of iron or wood. Its design boasts two minarets that pay homage to Mughal architectural style. The mosque complex encompasses a spacious prayer hall, a meticulously maintained tank, and an expansive courtyard, which is nearly as vast as the mosque itself. The grand entrance steps leading to the mosque span an area nearly equivalent to the mosque's size. Within this complex lies the Durgah of Hazrat Malikum Ulma Bahrul Uloom, a venerated Muslim saint and scholar who lived approximately three centuries ago. Alongside his tomb, you...

Delhi boasts a staggering array of approximately 1300 monuments, yet a mere fraction, around 30-40, garner the attention of tourists. Many treasures remain concealed from the world's gaze. Today, let's delve into the intriguing narrative of one such lesser-known marvel—Zafar Mahal. Nestled near Dargah Qutb Sahib in the Mehrauli area of Delhi, this historical gem beckons exploration. History Zafar Mahal stands as a poignant symbol, considered the final architectural endeavor by the Mughals. Constructed in the early 19th century, this palace was commissioned by Akbar Shah II and later saw the reconstruction of its gateway by Bahadur Shah Zafar II, the last of the Mughal Emperors. Serving as the summer residence for Bahadur Shah II, Zafar Mahal holds the echoes of a bygone era. Zafar Mahal Initially known as Lal Mahal and Rang Mahal, Zafar Mahal emerged adjacent to the Dargah of Sufi saint Kaki, commissioned by Akbar Shah II. The addition of the Hathi Gate and the renami...

Are You Familiar with Amir Khusrow and the Spiritual Legacy of Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki? If you're acquainted with the renowned Sufi poet and musician Amir Khusrow, then you've likely encountered the name of his spiritual guide, Nizamuddin Auliya. Going further back in the lineage, Nizamuddin's spiritual mentor was Fariduddin Ganjshakar, and Fariduddin's guide was none other than Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki. This article delves into the historical significance of Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki's dargah (shrine) in Delhi, India's capital known for its rich heritage. History Khwaja Qutbud-Din Bakhtyar Kaki, also known as Qutb-Sahib, was a prominent Sufi saint and scholar of the Chishti order hailing from Delhi. Instrumental in expanding the influence of the Chishti order from Ajmer and Nagaur to Delhi, he was born in Persia in 1173 CE and arrived in India alongside the early Muslim conquerors. His life unfolded during the rule of Ilttumish of the Slave dynasty, and he pas...

While Taj Mahal in Agra and Humayun's Tomb in Delhi are well-known, Quli Khan's Tomb remains a hidden gem in the city's vast array of monuments. With approximately 1300 monuments, Delhi is a treasure trove of historical wonders, and this article sheds light on the lesser-known but incredibly beautiful Quli Khan's Tomb, situated in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park near Qutb Minar. History Quli Khan, the elder son of Maham Anga, served as a general under the Mughal Emperor Akbar during the 16th century CE. Despite the popularity of his younger brother, Adham Khan, who met a tragic end at the hands of Akbar, little is known about Quli Khan. Details about his life, battles, and demise are shrouded in mystery, including the identity of the builder of his tomb. Constructed in the early 17th century CE, the tomb remains a historical enigma. The monument has a connection with Sir Thomas Metcalfe, the British Agent at the courts of the last Mughal Emperors. Metcalfe acqui...

Delhi, India's capital, is renowned for its rich collection of monuments, boasting approximately 1300 in total. Among these, the Qutb Minar stands out as one of Delhi's most iconic structures. However, the Qutb Minar complex is home to various other historical gems. This article aims to explore these monuments, presenting them in chronological order from the oldest to the most recent. Iron Pillar Iron Pillar The imposing Iron Pillar, standing at a height of 7.2 meters, graces the courtyard of the Quwwatul-Islam mosque within the Qutb Minar complex. Most historians deduce from inscriptions that this iron marvel was crafted during the reign of Gupta Emperor Chandragupta II Vikramaditya in the 4th century CE. Legend has it that Anangpal Tomar, the Delhi ruler, transported this pillar from Vishnupada and installed it in Delhi. Even as the Slave dynasty erected the Qutb Minar, converting temple areas into a mosque, the Iron Pillar retained its place in the mosque's court...