About Bibi ka Maqbara
A symbolic structure in the history of Mughal rule in India, Bibi ka Maqbara is a tomb built by one of Aurangzeb’s sons, Prince Azim Shah, in beloved memory of his mother to pay her a tribute. Surrounded by big gardens, fountains and broad pathways, the structure has open pavilions on three sides, enhancing its beauty.
At the lowest level of the structure lies the grave of Shah’s mother, which is enveloped with a number of marble screens. The doorways in the structure lead to a gallery consisting of a variety of stone screens. The place is surrounded by four minarets and is composed of white marbles completely. The structure draws a lot of inspiration from one of the finest and most famous creations in India: The Taj Mahal; and is thus, also known as the poor man’s Taj Mahal, based on the theory that it is a mediocre, replica, imitation of the Taj Mahal.
Behind this structure, there’s an archeological museum. The ornamentation in the monument reflects rich Mughal architecture, and over the years comparisons of this monument with the Agra monument has in a way led to the Maqbara’s depreciation. However, tourists still find this place to be worthwhile given the deep history behind its creation, and the art that the structure boasts of.