Hidden Secrets of Bibi ka Maqbara- Architectural Aestheticism

 Hidden Secrets of Bibi ka Maqbara- Architectural Aestheticism

View of the Main Tomb from the top of the Minaret

There are many factors that contribute to the aesthetic qualities of a piece of architecture. For an effect that can impart aesthetic perception, the building should be presented in an attractive setting with a beautiful background.[1] The Mughals gave overwhelming emphasis to the manipulation of the setting of the background in their architecture and created a pleasing environment, drew unique layouts and provided magnificent gardens and watering devices.[2] This aspect plays an extremely impressive role. There is no doubt that Prince Aurangzeb’s character traits are reflected in the construction of the Maqbara. The absence ofQuranic inscriptions[3] on the Maqbara and the presence of the 99 names of Allah in the Masjid of the Dilras Bano Begum portray the temperament of the young prince.

Emperor Shah Jahan used Quranic inscriptions profusely in the Taj and avoided the use of any animate motifs. It is ironic that in spite of all this Aurangzeb is yet branded as orthodox. There is no other instance of the use of animate motifs in Mughal constructions in the Deccan. Prior to Aurangzeb, Malik Ambar used animate motifs in the ornamentation of Bhadkal Gate[4] at Aurangabad and also on the walls of the Daulatabad Fort.[5]Prince Aurangzeb wanted to establish himself as a great builder like his father and ancestors which he proved by constructing the town of Aurangabad and its magnificent buildings along with the splendid mausoleum. Maqbara represents the romantic phase of Prince Aurangzeb’s life. He spent the mature part of his youth in the environs of Aurangabad, and aesthetic Mughal buildings. He had an intrinsic Mughal ingenuity neither borrowed from any extraneous Islamic source nor abstracted from the indigenous traditions.[6]

View from the mosque of Dilras Banu Begum

The idea of Charbagh(Garden divided into four parts) as an integral part of the tomb plan was an extremely important innovation.[7] The whole garden area was divided into four quarters and the mausoleum occupied the central position with water channels, ponds, cascades and fountains gorgeously set in all four directions.[8]

Dr Shaikh Ramzan

M.A., M.Ed., PhD (History) Researcher

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[1] Photo plate of Maqbara No: A, p. 462

[2] Sylvia Crowe, “The Gardens of Mughal India”, (Delhi Vikas Publishing House Pvt. Ltd., 1973), p. 20

[3] There are no Quranic inscriptions inlaid on any part of the Bibi-ka-Maqbara.

[4] Photo plate No: G, p. 156

[5] Fabulous animate motifs are carved on the outer face of the gates of the fort wall of Daulatabad constructed by

Malik Ambar.

[6]Nath, op. cit., p. 156

[7] Ibid.

[8] Crowe, op. cit., p. 42