Indo Islamic Heritage

Rauza Diwanji Begum

Rauza Diwanji Begum, Agra: A Forgotten Legacy of Mughal Grandeur In the tranquil locality of Billochpur, nestled between Basai and Tajganj, lies the Rauza of Diwanji Begum, a silent witness to Mughal history and familial ties. Nearest Bus Stop: Tajganj Bus Stop (approx. 1.5 km away) Nearest Metro Station: Agra Metro (Taj East Gate Station, approx. 3 km away) Nearest Railway Station: Agra Cantonment (AGC) Railway Station (approx. 5 km away) Nearest Airport: Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Airport, Agra (approx. 10 km away)

In the tranquil locality of Billochpur, nestled between Basai and Tajganj, lies the Rauza of Diwanji Begum, a silent witness to Mughal history and familial ties. Built in 1677 A.D., this tomb once commemorated Diwanji Begum, the daughter of Khwaja Ghias-ud-Din Qaziwani, the wife of Asif Khan, and the mother of Mumtaz Mahal, whose memory is immortalized in the Taj Mahal. Despite its current state of disrepair, this rauza tells an evocative story of love, legacy, and architectural splendor. Historical Significance Diwanji Begum was an important figure in Mughal history, not just for her lineage but for her pivotal role in connecting generations of the empire's key players. As the mother of Mumtaz Mahal, she occupies a significant place in the lineage that gave rise to the Taj Mahal, a monument synonymous with eternal love. Her tomb reflects the high regard in which she was held by her family and the Mughal court, though time has not been kind to its preservation. Architectural Features Though now in ruins, the Rauza Diwanji Begum offers glimpses of its former glory. The tomb was built on a square raised platform, a hallmark of Mughal architecture. Traces of the foundation walls and the four corner towers provide a sense of its symmetry and grandeur. The cenotaph chamber is remarkably intact, but the grave itself is missing, adding an air of mystery to the site. The absence of the superstructure, which has completely collapsed over time, only hints at the majestic tomb that once stood here. A Persian inscription found on the site dates the tomb's construction to 1677 A.D., connecting it firmly to the later years of Mughal rule. Though in ruins, the Rauza Diwanji Begum is a poignant reminder of Agra?s rich Mughal history. Its crumbling walls and missing grave whisper tales of a bygone era, where love and legacy intertwined to create timeless monuments. For those seeking to uncover the deeper layers of Mughal heritage, this rauza is a must-visit, offering both historical intrigue and a quiet, contemplative escape from the bustling streets of Agra.

Year of Built: 1677 A.D

Address: 27/170A, Telipara, Tajganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282001

Country: India

State: Uttar Pradesh

District: Agra

Pincode: 282001

Longitude: 78.0392? E

Latitude: 27.1590? N