AGRA CITY GUIDE
Agra,
the name
brings to our mind superb monuments including the magnificent Taj which is one
of the seven wonders of the world. Agra is the symbol of a bygone era.
The era, when the Mughals ruled India. As a reminder of their glorious
past they have left behind some beautiful monuments. The one and the only Taj
Mahal, Agra Fort, Jehangir's Palace. The list of the monuments is endless. If
we could push these great monuments away from our minds, then Agra is just like
any other city. The major part of the city is the cantonment area, making that
area more spacious and cleaner than the rest of the city.
After Babar defeated the last Lodhi Sultan at Panipat, Agra was made the
capital of the Mughal empire. The city reached its peak during the reigns of
Akbar, Jehangir and Shahjahan. It was Shahjahan, who constructed the major
monuments of Agra, including the Taj. After the Mughal dynasty collapsed, Agra
was looted. All the precious stones from the monuments like the Taj Mahal were
taken away and after the British accession, the city of Agra developed more
into an industrial town.
Taj
Mahal
The
Taj stands as the symbol of Love and Beauty. It is the most extravagant monument
ever to be built in the name of love. It was commissioned by the emperor
Shahjahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz, who died during child birth. It took 15
years for the construction to be completed and around 20,000 people were
employed to do the work. The artisans who were involved, either had their hand
or thumb amputated so that they could not construct a similar structure. The
main architect was Isa Khan who is believed to have been from Iran.
The Taj Mahal's character changes during the stretch of the day. It looks its
best on full moon nights, in the morning and evening hours. There are the
decorative Mughal Gardens with water in the front of the Taj, so that the
beautiful Taj is reflected in it.
Agra Fort
This fort was built by Emperor Akbar. This massive fort on the banks of Yamuna
river was primarily a military structure during Akbar's time and it was
partially converted into a palace during Shahjahan's time. The walls of the fort
are 20 mt high and extend over an area of 2.5 km.
Jehangir palace
This building was built by Akbar and is the largest residence in the fort. The
building is an interesting blend of the Hindu and Asian architecture.
Diwan-i-Am
The hall of public audience was built by Shahjahan. This is where the
emperor met his officials.
Diwan-i-Khas
The hall of private audience was built by Shahjahan. Here the emperor received
important people. The famous Peacock throne was kept here. Now in the place of
the throne only a marble niche is left.
Musamman Burj
This exquisite octagonal structure stands close to Diwan-i-Khas. This is where
Shahjahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangazeb.
Jama Masjid
This Mosque was also built by Shahjahan in 1648 in the name of his daughter
Jahanara, who was eventually imprisoned by Aurangazeb along with Shahjahan.
Akbar's Mausoleum
This is the tomb of Akbar, considered the greatest of Mughal emperors. Akbar
commissioned its construction himself, blending styles of all the religions.
Itimadud Daulad
On the banks of the River Yamuna is Itimadud Daulad, which is the tomb of
the famous poet Mirza. It was his daughter Noorjahan who married Jehangir.