Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad, Maharashtra

No it is not the Taj Mahal, it is the Taj of Deccan – Aurangabad ka Taj Mahal. 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 and Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad.

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.

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.

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”.

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 – 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.

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 and Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad

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 – 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 Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad 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.

How to Reach Bibi ka Maqbara Aurangabad

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: 8 AM to 8 PM 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 Aurangabad ka Taj Mahal: Rs. 15 per person for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners.

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Tomb of Aurangzeb in Khuldabad
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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?

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