Taj of Deccan: Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad, Maharashtra

No it is not the Taj Mahal, it is the Taj of Deccan Aurangabad. I have not seen the Taj Mahal yet; probably that is why I could be in awe at this stupendous monument! Due to its strong resemblance with Taj Mahal of Agra it is called Dakkhani Taj.

Popularly known as Bibi ka Maqbara meaning Tomb of the Lady, it is the mausoleum of Aurangzeb‘s fourth wife, Rabia-ul Durrani. Prince Alam Shah, their son, built the tomb in memory of his mother. Other names are Aurangabad Taj Mahal, mini Taj, mini Taj Mahal.

Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad

Exploring the lesser-explored beauty of Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad, a hidden architectural gem.

Rabia-ul Durrani

Dilras Banu Begum was the first wife and chief consort of Emperor Aurangzeb. She is posthumously known by the name Rabia-ud-Daurani (“Rabia of the Age”). Dilras died in 1657, a month after giving birth to her fifth child, Muhammad Akbar.

Dilras Banu Begum was a member of the prominent Safavid dynasty, one of the most significant ruling dynasties of Iran.

Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad

This monument is in so many ways similar to Taj Mahal. It was modeled on the Taj Mahal of Agra, Uttar Pradesh but not the exact replica. Many times it is referred to as Taj Mahal of Maharashtra. There is the central tomb with four minarets at four corners of the raised square platform.

Aurangzeb was not in favor of building this monument.  His son Alam Shah was determined to have a monument to his mother that might vie with the Taj Mahal of Agra. And Alam Shah prevailed upon his father who eventually relented.

Prince Alam Shah started it with great ambition to build the monument on par with Taj Mahal but the failure was due to severe constraints on finance and lack of architectural skills. Total cost to build it was 700,000 Rupees, a huge amount in those days.

Bibi ka Maqbara Architecture

Taj of Deccan is built within a complex measuring 450m by 275m. There are ponds, fountains, and water channels, stone screens and lined with broad pathways. Well maintained trees were adding beauty to the pathway.

Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad

Taj Mahal of Aurangabad – the regal allure of Bibi ka Maqbara, where love and ambition echo through time

An inscription here reads: “Ata-Ulla, an architect and Hanspati Rai an engineer designed and erected this mausoleum. It took 10 years to complete the work from 1651 to 1661AD”.

Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad

Mosque adjacent to tomb – the untold stories of Bibi ka Maqbara, a hidden treasure worth exploring

Bibi ka Maqbara Interior

Mortal remains of Rabia-ul Durrani are at a lower level in an octagonal enclosure made of marble screens. The lady lays here alone, while in Taj Mahal of Agra the lovers are laid side by side.

Most noteworthy was the tomb covered with a rich silk sheet. People were throwing coins on it. What a contrast when compared with the tomb of her husband Emperor Aurangazeb which is few kilometres away at Khuldabad!

Tomb of Rabia-ul Durrani at Bibi ka Maqbara

Tomb of Rabia-ul Durrani – the grandeur of Bibi ka Maqbara, a captivating tribute to a queen

Bibi ka Maqbara captions for Instagram

  1. Lost in awe at the magnificent Bibi ka Maqbara, a lesser-known wonder that stole my heart.
  2. Stepping into a world of enchantment at Bibiqa Maqbara Aurangabad, where history and beauty intertwine.
  3. Captivated by the grandeur of Bibi ka Maqbara, a tribute that left me inspired and amazed.
  4. Embracing the regal allure of Taj of Deccan, where love and ambition echo through time.
  5. Immersing myself in the untold stories of Bibi ka Maqbara, a hidden treasure worth exploring.
  6. Discover the charm of Taj of the Deccan, an unassuming rival to the grandeur of the Taj Mahal.
  7. Indulging in the beauty of Bibi ka Maqbara, where every corner whispers tales of art and heritage.
  8. Unearthing the secrets of Bibi ka Maqbara, a personal journey into a hidden architectural gem.
  9. Transported to another era at Bibi ka Maqbara, where the Mughal legacy comes alive before my eyes.
  10. Finding solace in the understated elegance of Bibi ka Maqbara, a rival to the Taj Mahal that captured my heart.

Bibi ka Maqbara: Architectural Details

Due to lack of funds the entire structure couldn’t be made of marble. So to give a white look the top portions were covered with lime plaster. The middle portion is covered with plaster and given a marble finish.

Seems like time is leaving its bad effects and the floral motifs in shell lime plaster are peeling off at places. Archaeological Society of India (ASI) frequently takes up the task of renovating it.

Facade details are interesting to see. Floral pattern seems to be the theme all over the walls.

Close up of pattern on marble

The lower body and tomb is made of pure marble. Impressive geometric and floral designs in marble… Close up of pattern on marble

Doors of Taj of Deccan

There are finely worked brass doors with floral motifs. Especially relevant are the exquisite designs on the marble screens and doors. No wonder this monument is one of the best Mughal buildings in Deccan!

Differences between Taj Mahal of Agra and Taj of Deccan

1. Difference in their stories of construction – The Taj Mahal, conceived between 1631 and 1654 in the city of Agra, was Shah Jahan’s grand tribute to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. With meticulous craftsmanship and exquisite design, he sought to create a final resting place worthy of her name—a symbol of enduring love that would echo through the ages.
Meanwhile, in Aurangabad, construction on the Bibi ka Maqbara commenced in 1651. This magnificent mausoleum was intended to honor Rabia-ul-Daurani, the wife of Aurangzeb. Over the course of a decade, the structure took shape, evoking a sense of grandeur and devotion.

2. Difference in purpose of construction – The Taj Mahal stands as the timeless symbol of eternal love, built by Shah Jahan as a tribute to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It attracts countless couples who seek to capture their love amidst its majestic presence.
In contrast, the Bibi ka Maqbara tells a different tale. This mausoleum was not constructed out of love, but rather driven by Aurangzeb’s ambitious aspirations. As the governor of Deccan, he sought to assert his claim to the throne amid the succession battles between heirs. The construction of the Bibi ka Maqbara, therefore, lacked the meticulousness of the Taj Mahal.

Aurangabad Taj Mahal

Aurangabad Taj Mahal – Unravel the secrets of Bibi ka Maqbara’s history and architecture, an underrated treasure.

3. Difference in construction materials – In Shah Jahan’s quest to demonstrate his boundless love, no expense was spared. He meticulously selected the finest materials to craft the Taj Mahal. The mausoleum was entirely constructed from flawless marble adorned with intricately inlaid precious stones.
In contrast, the Bibi ka Maqbara relies on a different combination of materials. Marble and plaster take center stage in its construction. However, the plaster lacks the lustrous gleam and tactile sensation of marble. It is a more delicate substance, vulnerable to the elements, particularly rain, which gradually erodes its integrity. This inherent fragility imbues the structure with a sense of delicacy, vulnerability and a subtle sense of impermanence.

4. Difference in structures – A distinct disparity between the Taj Mahal and the Bibi ka Maqbara lies in their structural shapes. The Taj Mahal boasts an octagonal form, Symbolizing good luck and auspiciousness, the number 8 holds significance in their culture.
In contrast, while the walls of the Bibi ka Maqbara adhere to the octagonal shape, its exterior takes on a square form. This rectilinear design adds a unique perspective to the overall structure, creating a distinctive visual appeal.
The contrasting shapes of these two monuments contribute to their individuality and offer visitors diverse architectural experiences.

5. Difference in awareness of the monuments – The Taj Mahal continues to be India’s most renowned and visited monument. Its popularity has led the government to increase entrance fees in an effort to manage the overwhelming number of visitors. Extensive restoration efforts have been undertaken, ensuring the well-maintained gardens and functioning irrigation system.
In contrast, the Taj of Deccan suffers from its overshadowing comparison to the Agra monument. It receives fewer visitors, and many tourists remain unaware of its existence. The lack of interest and controversies surrounding its history has led to neglect, with no sustainable restoration plan in place.
While the Taj Mahal battles the challenges of excessive tourism and unfounded claims, the Taj of Deccan languishes in obscurity, struggling to attract attention and necessary conservation measures.

Step into the enchanting world of Bibi ka Maqbara and immerse yourself in its timeless allure.

Step into the enchanting world of Bibi ka Maqbara and immerse yourself in its timeless allure.

How to Reach Taj of Deccan

By Train: Aurangabad is the nearest railway station, which is approximately 12 km from Bibi ka Maqbara.
By Road: If you are in Aurangabad, the best mode of travel will be auto rickshaw or taxi to visit Bibi-ka-Maqbara. You can also avail the local city buses.

Bibi ka Maqbara Timings and Tickets

Visit Timings: 8am to 8pm on all days.
Best time to visit – Winters will be ideal. When we visited there were hardly any visitors even in peak of winters.
Entry Fees to Taj of
Deccan: Rs. 15 per person for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners.

You may like these:

Tomb of Aurangzeb in Khuldabad
Places to Visit in Aurangabad
5 Days Itinerary for Aurangabad

Parting thoughts

Finally, one last glance at Taj of Deccan, the monument built by a son for his mother… I am curious, is there any other monument in this vast world built in honor of one’s mother? Tell me, did these Bibi ka Maqbara photos stun you?

Pin this for later

Bibi ka maqbara Aurangabad Maharashtra India

(This was first published on Feb 22nd 2008.)

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24 Responses to “Taj of Deccan: Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad, Maharashtra

  • Thank you for posting this, beautiful architecture 🙂

  • Beautiful architecture. Even more beautiful that it has been built in the honor of a mother. Nice pictures.

  • It is most beautiful !! Loved looking at the pics 🙂

  • Saumy Nagayach
    8 years ago

    I read about it a few months ago but wasn’t aware of the fact that this is so very similar to The Taj Mahal. Wonderfully presented 🙂

  • Beautiful Photos 🙂

  • It’s indeed a mini Taj. Didn’t know about it. Thanks for sharing with amazing clicks and historical facts. 🙂

  • It is a Taj Mahal replica but the carvings are richer there….awesome captures and description Indrani 🙂

  • It is so much like Taj Mahal. Many of my friends have been to this place. Very well presented . Wonderful photos.

  • Brilliant presentation with nice pictures

  • Great post..It was a virtual tour to the remarkable mausoleum which I had the opportunity to visit during my childhood. The author had nicely highlighted the architectural splendors of the by-gone Mughal era..

  • Wow! At first, I thought it is the Taj Mahal. Stunning captures and wonderful description.

  • Differ by identity only, otherwise at first sight looks like Taj Mahal.

  • How have you managed not to see Taj? It is worth a visit!

  • Yogi Saraswat
    8 years ago

    Another Taj Mahal -Bibi ka maqbara ! Have listen about it but never read much about it . Thank you very much for sharing this place . Hope you will be at actual Taj Mahal very soon.

  • i havent seen the original Taj but seen this one. So when u mentioned the Taj of Deccan in sm other post I thought it has to be this place!

  • I didn’t even know this place existed ….

  • I have a similar post on my blog–with similar pics!Even I was impressed when i first saw it.

  • A stunning monument indeed..and it appears there are fewer tourists than at the Taj Mahal at any given time..

    Ah..there is still too many places on my list I haven’t visited yet..

    🙂

  • Celine: Thanks!

    GMG: I am glad you liked it!

    Guru: Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.

    shubd: Sure! and thanks to you too!

  • Hi Indrani

    I hv seen the Biwi ka Maqbara. So the pics and ur write up did bring back memories . I was particularly taken up with the fact that since marble was beyond budget ..they had seshells pounded and used onthe outer surface to give it is milk white sheen . Amazing edifice .

    Thanks for your comments on the (hindi)poem .
    Do visit again . 🙂

  • While appreciating the architectural beauty of the Taj of Agra or the taj of Deccan , we need to temper it with the thought of the hardship inflicted on the slave labour used in the construction of these monuments. There are reasons to believe that majority of the slaves were mostly non-muslims and many of them would have perished during construction of these monuments.

    Many historians have attempted to put a positive spin on Aurangazeb and his life saying he was a man of simplicity and a devoted muslim. Hidden under this garb was a fanatic muslim who imposed sharia on all which included Hindus and adding insult to injury he also imposed an outrageous tax on each Hindu called jeziya. He ruled for a long time and inflicted misery on his subjects who were predominantly non-muslims.

  • Hi, here I am trying to recapture your last posts. Loved to see this Taj, though the other is much more impressive…
    Thanks for your comments at Blogtrotter. I’m still strolling around the streets of Sofia.
    Have a great weekend!

  • A nice post with lovely pictures.
    Thank you for dropping by at my space.

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