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The tomb of Etimad-ud-Daula

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Mughals gave India the architecture and art which is revered and liked by Indians as well as the tourists from all over the globe. The Mughal architecture is a heritage that provides India her real essence and unique aura. The tomb of Etimad-ud-Daula is one of the best and classic examples of Mughal architectures that eventually paved the way through success. The tomb, often addressed as ‘Baby Taj,’ is considered the diminutive form of TajMahal. The historic monument was built between 1622 and 1628 and symbolizes a kind of transition in two of its phase distributions. The initial phase of this superb Mughal architecture exemplifies artistically created red sandstone and marble decorations, while the later transitions showcase use of pietradura inlay and white marble work as done in the TajMahal. The tomb of Etimad-ud-Daula also comprises well kempt gardens, outbuildings and many types of small Mughal architectures.

The mausoleum was custom-made by Nur Jahan, the wife of Jahangir, in remembrance of her beloved father late MirzaGhiyas Beg, who happened to be an expatriate Persian Amir, and was given designation asI’timad-ud-Daulah (pillar of the state). MirzaGhiyas Beg was also the father of Mumtaz Mahal (originally named ArjumandBano, descendant of Asaf Khan), and the beloved wife of great Mughal king Shah Jahan, who built the magnificent seventh wonder- Taj Mahal.

The tomb of Etimad-ud-Daula is erected on the solid stone base which is fifty meters in square and approximately one meter high. The tomb is positioned on the eastern most bank of the sacred river Yamuna. Each corner of square holds hexagonal towers that are essentially measured to thirteen meters tall. The walls of tomb are constructed from white marble and enveloped with attractive semi-precious stone tickertapes, especially the cornelian, onyx, jasper, lapis lazuli, and topaz respectively. These sophisticated tickertapes are crafted in form of cut fruits, decorated vases holding the bouquets, cypress trees and also wine bottles.

The memorials of NurJahan’s father and mother have been set forth adjacent to one another and this arrangement imitates the great Taj Mahal. The principal tomb structure is constructed in white marble and occupies the center of garden. Every façade of stone holds three arches – the central one, which shows entrance while the ones on the sides are covered by jalis. Each of the side facades have also been protected by chhajja and jalied railing. The tomb doesn’t have a dome like the other Mughal architectures. However, there are square ‘Barahdari’ with 3 beautifully arched openings on its every side which are padlocked by Jalis. The middle of north and south sides are open, and provide a balanced feel.

The tomb of Itimad-ud-Daula undoubtedly is a classic example of Mughal architecture where dome was not used. The transition from the use of red stone into the white marble again shows the character of exquisite Iranian - MirzaGhiyas Beg. The tomb also demonstrates subtle touch of beauty and ornamental charisma of gorgeous Mughal queen Nur Jahan.