Indo Islamic Heritage
Kale Khan ka Gumbad, also known as Kale Khan Ka Makbara, is a historical mausoleum dedicated to Mubarak Khan Lohani. Mubarak Khan was a nobleman during the reign of Bahlol Lodi (1451?1489 CE), the founder of the Lodi Dynasty in Delhi. The Nearest Bus Stand - South Ext, The Nearest Metro Station - South Ext, Nearest Railway Station- Nizamuddin Railway Station Railway Station Nearest Airport- IGI
Kale Khan ka Gumbad, also known as the Tomb of the Black Khan, is a significant Lodi-era mausoleum located approximately 300 meters north of the Ring Road in Delhi. Dated to 1481 CE, as per an inscription on the mihrab inside the tomb, it is considered the earliest dated tomb of the Lodi period. The tomb was built for Mubarak Khan Lohani, a courtier during the reign of Bahlol Lodi (1451?1489 CE), and is conjectured to have familial ties with Darya Khan Lohani, whose tomb lies nearby. Standing on a high, sloping mound, the square tomb exudes an air of historical majesty despite its current crumbling state. Surrounded by a small landscaped lawn with rows of palm trees, the site has become a gathering spot for couples, students, and locals seeking a tranquil retreat. Architecturally, the tomb?s exterior creates the illusion of a two-story structure. Narrow alcoves frame the central arch on each side, which is recessed within a larger arch embedded in a rectangular projecting fa?ade. The roof features battlement-like ornamentation called ?kanguras,? which line the base of the dome. The dome itself, measuring 6.86 meters in diameter inside and 12.80 meters outside, suggests a double-dome structure?a remarkable feature of Lodi architecture. The tomb has entrances on three sides, while the western side serves as a mihrab, guiding prayers towards Mecca. Inside, the tomb is in a more deteriorated state, though traces of its original grandeur remain. Faint medallions and an eight-pointed star pattern on the dome hint at the vibrant decoration that once adorned the structure. Two graves lie within the tomb, with the central cenotaph unusually tall, possibly signifying the resting places of Mubarak Khan and his wife. The tomb's nickname, "Black Khan," has uncertain origins. Some believe it refers to Mubarak Khan?s complexion, while others suggest it may have been named after the structure's blackened appearance due to weathering and pollution before restoration efforts. Kale Khan ka Gumbad marks a pivotal transition in Lodi architecture from octagonal mausoleums of earlier periods to the symmetrical square structures that became hallmarks of later Lodi tombs. Though weathered by time, it remains an evocative testament to the architectural and historical legacy of the Lodi era in Delhi.
Year of Built: 15th Century
Address: Opposite Old Arena Animation, South Extension I, Block J, New Delhi, Delhi
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: South Delhi
Pincode: 110049
Longitude: 77.2210
Latitude: 28.5687