The Tomb of Rabia Daurani, known as Bibi Ka Maqbara, is one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture and closely resembles the Taj Mahal at Agra.

Historical Background

Rabia Daurani, also known as Dilras Banu Begum, was the chief wife of Emperor Aurangzeb, who ruled from 1658 to 1707 C.E. The mausoleum was commissioned by her son, Prince Azam Shah, in her memory. Construction began in 1651 C.E. and took nearly ten years. The design was conceived by Ataullah, son of Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the architect of the Taj Mahal, with engineering support from Hanspat Rai.

Location and Significance

Located in Aurangabad, the monument represents Mughal funerary architecture in the Deccan and reflects the patronage and artistic traditions of the later Mughal period.

Architectural Materials and Design

Set within a char bagh garden enclosed by high walls, the complex features fountains, pools and pavilions. Entry is through a southern wooden gate with brass foliage designs, leading to a screened path lined with fountains. The marble mausoleum stands on a high platform with four minarets and a delicately crafted dome. The queen’s remains lie in a lower chamber surrounded by an octagonal marble screen. A mosque to the west was added later by the Nizam of Hyderabad.