The tomb of Jehangir was built at Shahdara during the reign ofa)Jehang...
The tomb of Jahangir was built after the Mughal emperor's death in 1627 and completed in 1637, in the reign of his son and successor, Shah Jahan, when the Mughal Empire held sway over the entire Indian subcontinent and Lahore was an important urban center.
The tomb of Jehangir was built at Shahdara during the reign ofa)Jehang...
The Tomb of Jehangir at Shahdara
The correct option for the question is 'b) Shahjahan'. The tomb of Jehangir was indeed built at Shahdara during the reign of Shahjahan. Here's a detailed explanation:
Background:
- Jehangir, whose full name was Nur-ud-din Muhammad Salim, was the fourth Mughal emperor of India. He ruled from 1605 to 1627.
- After his death in 1627, his body was initially buried in Lahore, Pakistan, where he had spent a significant portion of his reign.
- Jehangir's son, Shahjahan, who succeeded him as the Mughal emperor, decided to construct a grand mausoleum for his father in Shahdara, a suburb of Lahore.
Construction of the Tomb:
- Shahjahan commissioned the construction of the tomb to honor his father Jehangir and to commemorate his legacy.
- The tomb was designed and built in the traditional Mughal architectural style, which is characterized by its grandeur and intricate detailing.
- The construction of the tomb began in 1627 and was completed in 1637, a decade after the commencement of the project.
- The tomb complex is situated on the banks of the Ravi River and covers an area of approximately 124 acres.
- It consists of several structures, including the main tomb, a grand entrance gateway, a mosque, and various gardens and pavilions.
Architectural Features:
- The main tomb is built on a raised platform and is made of red sandstone and marble.
- It is adorned with intricate marble inlay work featuring floral motifs and calligraphic inscriptions from the Quran.
- The tomb is crowned by a large marble dome, which is a characteristic feature of Mughal architecture.
- The interior of the tomb contains the cenotaph of Jehangir, which is made of white marble and is intricately carved.
- The cenotaph is surrounded by a screen made of marble, which is beautifully perforated and allows light to filter through, creating a serene ambience inside the tomb.
Significance:
- The tomb of Jehangir at Shahdara is not only a magnificent architectural marvel but also holds great historical and cultural significance.
- It serves as a testament to the Mughal dynasty's patronage of art and architecture, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.
- The tomb also serves as a symbol of the filial piety of Shahjahan towards his father, Jehangir, and reflects the grandeur and opulence of the Mughal court.
In conclusion, the tomb of Jehangir was built at Shahdara during the reign of Shahjahan, who commissioned and oversaw the construction of this grand mausoleum to honor his father's memory and legacy.
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