Tomb of Anarkali
The Tomb of Anarkali stands as an octagonal 16th-century Mughal monument in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Construction dates to either 1599 or 1615 during the early Mughal period. It is considered one of the earliest Mughal tombs still in existence today. The building sits on the grounds of Lahore's Punjab Civil Secretariat complex near the British-era Mall. This location places it southwest of the Walled City of Lahore. Scholars debate the exact year of completion due to conflicting historical records.
Contemporary travel accounts mention a beloved named Anarkali for whom Emperor Jehangir built this tomb. Legend claims Prince Saleem had relations with her that were suspected by Emperor Akbar. No historic proof confirms Anarkali's actual existence beyond these western traveler accounts from the era. These accounts could not be independently confirmed by later historians. Most details about her life remain scholarly speculation or literary fictionalization. Movies and books often expand upon these unverified stories without solid evidence.
During the Sikh Empire, Kharak Singh occupied the tomb structure. General Jean-Baptiste Ventura employed in Ranjit Singh's army saw his wife reside there after further desecration. The British Raj converted the site into clerical offices in 1847. In 1851 authorities turned it into the Anglican St. James Church known as Lahore's Protestant Cathedral. The church congregation relocated in 1891 allowing repurposing as the Punjab Record Office. Each regime left distinct marks on the building's function and physical state.
The structure foundations form an octagon with alternating measurements of 44 feet and 30 feet per side. Semi-octagonal towers occupy each corner of the base design. A double-dome tops the structure representing one of the earlier examples from the Mughal era. Eight arches support the dome with each measuring 12 feet 3 inches wide. Large arches once stood open in typical Mughal fashion before the British blocked them off. Today whitewashing covers the exterior where gardens reportedly surrounded the building previously.
A white marble cenotaph features carvings displaying the ninety-nine names of Allah. Nineteenth-century historians described this work as one of the finest pieces of carving in the world. The cenotaph was removed when the tomb became a church then placed at the former altar site instead of its original location. A Persian couplet inscribed on the monument comes from Saadi ghazal 31 line 1. The text reads: Ah! could I behold the face of my beloved once more, I would give thanks unto my Creator until the day of resurrection.
The Archaeology Department of Punjab lists the tomb among Protected Heritage Monuments. Current usage restricts public entry to the Punjab Archives facility. Limited access ensures preservation of the historical structure for future generations. The building remains an active government archive rather than a tourist destination. This status protects the site while maintaining its function within modern administrative systems.
Common questions
When was the Tomb of Anarkali built in Lahore?
Construction dates to either 1599 or 1615 during the early Mughal period. Scholars debate the exact year of completion due to conflicting historical records.
Who is the person associated with the Tomb of Anarkali in Lahore?
Contemporary travel accounts mention a beloved named Anarkali for whom Emperor Jehangir built this tomb. No historic proof confirms Anarkali's actual existence beyond these western traveler accounts from the era.
What happened to the Tomb of Anarkali during the British Raj in 1847?
The British Raj converted the site into clerical offices in 1847. In 1851 authorities turned it into the Anglican St. James Church known as Lahore's Protestant Cathedral.
How many sides does the octagonal base of the Tomb of Anarkali have and what are their measurements?
The structure foundations form an octagon with alternating measurements of 44 feet and 30 feet per side. Semi-octagonal towers occupy each corner of the base design.
Where is the white marble cenotaph located inside the Tomb of Anarkali today?
The cenotaph was removed when the tomb became a church then placed at the former altar site instead of its original location. A Persian couplet inscribed on the monument comes from Saadi ghazal 31 line 1.