Questions about Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani

Short answers, pulled from the story.

Where is the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani located?

The Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani is located in Sikandra, Agra, within the garden that holds the mausoleum of Emperor Akbar. This site was originally an open baradari built in 1495 during the reign of Sikander Lodi before being transformed into a tomb by Jahangir.

Who was Mariam-uz-Zamani and what was her relationship to Emperor Akbar?

Mariam-uz-Zamani was born Harkha Bai and was a Rajput princess from Amer who married Emperor Akbar in 1562. She was his favorite wife and the only one granted the rare honor of burial directly beside him in Sikandra.

When did Mariam-uz-Zamani die and when was her tomb constructed?

Mariam-uz-Zamani died on the 19th of May 1623 in Agra and her tomb was commissioned by her son Jahangir between 1623 and 1627. The structure was originally built in 1495 as a pleasure pavilion before being converted into a mausoleum.

Was Mariam-uz-Zamani a Christian convert according to historical records?

Historical evidence firmly refutes the claim that Mariam-uz-Zamani was a Christian convert as she was the daughter of Raja Bharmal and a Muslim. The title Mariam-uz-Zamani meaning Mary of the Age was bestowed upon her in 1569 after the birth of her son Jahangir and was a mark of high honor rather than religious conversion.

What is the architectural design of the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani?

The mausoleum is constructed of brick and mortar finished with stucco and lacks a dome which distinguishes it from most other imperial tombs of the era. The structure features four massive octagonal chhatris on its corners and four oblong chhatris in the center of the four sides.

Who else is buried in the Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani?

Her granddaughter Bahar Banu Begum is also buried within the same mausoleum alongside her grandmother. The tomb contains three tombstones including one in the underground mortuary chamber which is the grave itself and another cenotaph on the terrace.