Here are some key facts about the Ain-i-Akbari, a significant historical document from the Mughal
era:
1. The Ain-i-Akbari was written by Abu'l-Fazl ibn Mubarak which is his full name, a court
historian and one of the "Nine Gems" (Navratnas) of Emperor Akbar's court.
2. The text is divided into 5 main sections which are stated here:
3. Statistical Data: The Ain-i-Akbari contains statistics on the number of villages, land
revenue, and the organization of the military, providing a comprehensive view of the
empire's structure.
4. The text is written in Persian, the court language of the Mughal Empire, and is often known
for its literary quality as well as its historical significance.
5. Legacy: The Ain-i-Akbari is considered a vital resource for historians.
Book 1
Also known as manzil-Abadi, this book covers the imperial household and its maintenance. It
includes 90 regulations, or ains, the process of minting coins, and the extraction of precious
metals.
Book 2
Also known as sipah-abadi, this book covers the emperor's servants, the military, and civil
services. It includes details about the infantry, animals used in war, and the wages of animal
keepers.
Book 3
This book covers the administrative structure of the Mughal Empire, including regulations for
the judicial and executive branches, land surveying, and tribal divisions.
Book 4
This book covers Hindu philosophy, science, social customs, and literature. It also examines
the political development of the Hindus, reflecting akbars policy of religious tolerance and
integration.
Book 5
This book contains Emperor Akbar's wise sayings, as well as an account of the author's
ancestry and biography.
It is a key primary source on Mughal administration and governance, giving insight into how Akbar
ruled and maintained his empire.
TAJ mahal
Built at Agra, along the Yamuna River.
Emperor Shah Jahan built it in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
The main structure is made of white marble, which changes color with the light throughout the day.
The color change is primarily due to variations in natural light throughout the day.
It took a little more than 20 years to complete, beginning in 1632 and ending in 1653.
A prime example of Mughal architecture, blending Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles.
Symbol of eternal love and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.
BLACK MAHAL
Shah Jahan planned to build the Black Taj Mahal, but his son Aurangzeb overthrew him before it
could be completed.
The concept of building the Black Mahal as a counterpart to the Taj Mahal was meant to mirror the
relationship between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz. The Taj Mahal, made of white marble, represents the
purity and beauty of Mumtaz Mahal, while the Black Mahal, envisioned in black stone, would
symbolize Shah Jahan's own presence in their eternal union
The fact that the Black Mahal was never built adds a layer of tragic beauty to their story. The
unfulfilled plan of the Black Mahal echoes the incompleteness he felt after her passing, showcasing
his undying love that could never be fully expressed.
The white Taj Mahal represents light, peace, and life, often associated with Mumtaz Mahal's purity
and grace. The Black Mahal would have symbolized the darker side of their love story—grief, loss,
and death. Together, they would form a powerful contrast, much like love and loss coexist in life.
Jama Masjid
It was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 and 1656. The mosque is a
stunning example of Mughal architecture, characterized by its grand domes, intricate carvings, and
expansive courtyards. symbol of Shah Jahan's dedication to Islam.
The mosque’s courtyards can accommodate around 25,000 worshippers in its courtyard.
It serves as a major center for Islamic worship and community gatherings.
2 TALL MINARETS OF HEIGHT 40M EACH.
Jama Masjid stands as a reminder of India's long history of religious coexistence and tolerance.
Despite being a Muslim place of worship, it remains open to people of all faiths, symbolizing
inclusivity.
Red Fort
Commissioned again by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, construction began in 1638 and was completed
in 1648. Constructed primarily from red sandstone along with marble, the fort features intricate
carvings, beautiful gardens, and elaborate decorations.
Diwan-i-Am: The Hall of Public Audience, where the emperor would address the public and hear
their grievances.
Diwan-i-Khas: The Hall of Private Audience, used for private meetings with dignitaries and important
guests. It houses the Peacock Throne which was Constructed from gold and inlaid with various
jewels,
Mumtaz Mahal: A palace within the fort, originally built for Shah Jahan's wife, which now houses a
museum.
It is been a symbol of India's independence and is the site where the Prime Minister of India hoists
the national flag every Independence Day.
