|
Young World
Replica of a wonder
NITANT VARTAKAVI
A marble-and-limestone mausoleum.
At Aurangabad, in Maharashtra, is the fabulous Bibi-ka-Maqbara, a replica of the Taj Mahal at Agra.
This mausoleum was built by Prince Azam Shah, son of the Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb, for his mother, Rabia-Durrani between 1651 and 1661 A.D.
Like the Taj, this structure has a central dome, surrounded by four smaller domes. Four small minarets hug the main structure while four larger minarets stand a distance away. The Bibi-ka Maqbara stands on a high platform. The inner gallery and burial chamber are octagonal in shape. This monument has vast gardens around it, which are perfect for a picnic or to spend a lazy afternoon. There are wide paths for walks around it with fountains and channels of water. There is a mosque on the west side and steps lead up to the impressive structure from three sides.
In reality, no comparison can be made between the Bibi-ka-Maqbara and the Taj Mahal. The Taj was built of pure marble but the Bibi-ka-Maqbara was built of marble and limestone.
A visit to the Bibi-ka-Maqbara can be combined with a visit to a few other tourist attractions. Daulatabad Fort is located nearby. The famous Ajanta and Ellora caves too are close by. One can also have a glimpse of Aurangazeb's simple tomb.
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Young World
|
