Nestled in Sikandra, near Agra, is the impressive Akbar’s Tomb — a site of great historical and architectural importance. This tomb reflects the grandeur of Akbar the Great, one of the key emperors of the Mughal dynasty. With its beautiful gardens and detailed designs, the mausoleum provides visitors a gateway into the rich heritage of Mughal architecture.
“Don’t grieve. Anything you lose comes round in another form”
– Persian poet Rumi
Historical Significance
Akbar was the third Indian Sovereign of the house of Timur. His grandfather Babur had founded the Mughal Empire in AD 1525, and after a brief reign of five years had died at Agra (in the charbagh) Dec 26th 1530. Ten years later, his son and successor, Humayun, was defeated and driven out of India by the able and determined Afghan chief Sher Shah. Sher Shah died on the throne, and was succeeded by a son and grandson, while Humayun took refuge with Tahmasp, the Shah of Persia, and the restored Afghans keeping their power for fifteen years.
Akbar was in his fourteenth regnal year when he ascended the throne in 1556 A.D; but he possessed a capable guardian in Bairam Khan, who commanded the Mughal army and acted as Prime Minister during the Emperor’s minority. Akbar had many learned men and ministers in his durbar one of the most important ministers was Birbal.
Akbar’s kingdom extended from Kabul to Dhaka and from Kashmir to Ahmadnagar. Under the sway of Akbar the Arts flourished. The Mughal style of architecture, which sprang up under Akbar, passed its zenith about the year AD 1658. Akbar was the great master builder of his race. During his time Mughal style flourished and grew to perfection, only to decay under the influence of Aurangzeb.
The finest examples of the style are to be seen in the splendid capital which Akbar founded at Fatehpur Sikri in the year A.D. 1571, and in the so called Jahangiri Mahal in the Agra Fort. Fatehpur Sikri reflected Akbar’s design and architectural philosophy. This “Akbar” style of architecture consisted of a synthesis of earlier styles, Timurid, Persian and Indian. The lavish use of red sandstone sought to minimize the stylistic clashes consequent to the mixing of these disparate elements.
One of the first buildings of any great importance erected by the Mughals is Humayun’s tomb at Delhi. It is one of the Akbar’s earliest works, but was possibly designed and commenced by Humayun himself and completed by his son Jahangiri, as we know it was the custom of Tartar and Mongolian princes to build their own tombs in their lifetime. In the Akbar’s and Jahangiri’s period the Hindu forms strongly predominates, and the buildings are generally built in red sand stone.
On the other hand in the Shah Jahan’s the Hindu element becomes less and less prominent, till it almost fades away altogether. It is however after the death of Akbar that coloured ornamentation became one of the leading characteristics of the Mughal style. Jahangir relied more upon colour for beautifying buildings than Akbar and the splendid gate entrance to the garden round his Father’s tomb at Sikandra is covered with marble mosaic.
Layout of Akbar’s Tomb: A King’s Vision
Akbar’s Tomb was commissioned by Emperor Akbar himself and completed by his son, Jahangir, in 1613. Akbar was known for his deep interest in art, culture, and architecture, and this is reflected in the design of his mausoleum. Unlike many tombs built posthumously, Akbar personally oversaw the initial construction phases, choosing the location and layout with meticulous attention to detail.
The tomb reflects Akbar’s philosophy of Sulh-e-Kul (universal peace) and his syncretic approach, blending Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian architectural elements. This fusion makes Akbar’s Tomb a unique monument in the Mughal architectural landscape.
Akbar’s Tomb stands in the centre of the garden, and is approached by four stone terraces or causeways leading from the gateways which project from the middle of the walls round the side garden. It is square on plan and rises to five storey which are receding gently to give pyramid like impression. In the centre of the ground floor is a small chamber, in which is a white marble sepulcher containing the remains of the great Akbar, and five storey above it is the cenotaph.
Architectural Brilliance: A Blend of Styles
The architecture of Akbar’s Tomb is a harmonious blend of Mughal, Persian, and Rajput styles. The monument is constructed primarily from red sandstone, adorned with intricate marble inlays and detailed carvings. The main gateway, or Buland Darwaza, is a striking example of Mughal grandeur, featuring four elegant minarets made of white marble.
The tomb itself is a five-tiered structure, each level showcasing distinct architectural elements. The lower floors feature massive arched entrances and latticed screens, while the uppermost pavilion is open, offering panoramic views of the surrounding gardens. The central chamber houses Akbar’s cenotaph, a simple yet elegant structure that contrasts with the ornate exterior.
The Charbagh Garden: Mughal Landscaping at Its Finest
One of the most striking features of Akbar’s Tomb is its sprawling Charbagh garden, a quintessential element of Mughal landscape design. Divided into four quadrants by water channels, the garden symbolizes the Islamic concept of paradise. The symmetry and geometry of the Charbagh reflect Akbar’s appreciation for balance and order, creating a serene environment that complements the grandeur of the tomb.
The garden is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including peacocks and antelopes, adding a touch of wilderness to the meticulously maintained landscape. Note: The wildlife has now been shifted to Elephant Conservation and Care Center (ECCC) near Mathura.
Water Structures (Wells) in the complex
There are several wells in the Akbar’s Tomb complex premises. There are 4 wells situated in south -west garden of inner side quadrangle in the complex of Akbar’s Tomb. There are 3 wells situated in North -west garden of inner side quadrangle in the complex. There are 3 wells situated in North -east garden of inner side quadrangle in the complex There are 5 wells situated in South – east garden of inner side quadrangle in the complex of Akbar’s Tomb. Most of the wells are filled with silt and debris and are in damaged condition.
Intricate Ornamentation and Design
The detailed ornamentation of Akbar’s Tomb is a feast for the eyes. The red sandstone facade is inlaid with white marble and semi-precious stones, forming intricate floral and geometric patterns. The ceilings of the entrance halls feature stunning frescoes and calligraphy, while the lattice screens, or jali, allow soft light to filter into the interior chambers, creating a tranquil ambiance.
The craftsmanship displayed here is reminiscent of the Mughal penchant for fine detail and artistic expression.
As Akbar once said, “A wise king is the fountainhead of justice and a beacon of light for his people.” This monument stands as a beacon of his vision and legacy.
The gateway is built in two storey, and measures 137′ 5” across from east to west, and 99′ 10” from north to south. The main gateway, to the south, is a magnificent red sand stone structure with a colossal central arch, finished with an exuberant polychrome mosaic of inlaid white marble, black slate and coloured stone. On each corner are four graceful marble minarets, considered to be the forerunners of those that can be seen at the Taj Mahal in Agra. The centre of the southern side is occupied by a vestibule which is richly embellished with quranic verses in gold over vibrant deep blue background.
The gateway on the north side is now in ruinous condition. It measures 137′ 6” in length, by 47′ in width. The east and west gateways are almost identical in plan. They are seven storeyed structures with a complex of rooms of various shapes, interconnected by diagonal and rectangular corridors. At their centre are a huge receding porch covered by two small arched alcoves one over the other surmounted by a beautiful chhatri (kiosk). On the outside, they were faced with red stone ashlars inlaid with ornamental designs in white marble. The important feature of the gateway is the introduction of four Graceful marble minarets raised from the corners of the terrace. The minarets were built in four tiers, and each tier diminishes in diameter from the base to the summit. They are constructed of red sand stone veneered on the outside with White marble, and rising, as they do, considerably above the roof of the gateway.
Archaeological and Heritage Importance
Akbar’s cenotaph stands in the middle of the platform. It is of white marble and some 6′ 10” in length by 2′ 7” in width, exclusive of the plinth, and 3′ 3’’ in height. The cenotaph is of a single block of marble and is profusely carved with arabesque and floral pattern. The two oblong sides and the top are adorned with the ninety-nine titles of the creator. The words “Allahu Akbar Jalla Jalalluhu” is inscribed on the head and foot set in panels surrounded by most beautiful and delicate Arabic tracery. This monument architecturally deviates from the conventional Muslim tomb architecture due to the absence of dome which is an essential element of the sepulcharal architecture under the Islamic tenets and commissions of numerous marble chhatris above the kiosks.
The rear walls of burial chambers bear traces of richly coloured and polished dadoes. The burial chamber in east side of southern vestibules contains two graves one is of Aram Banu, one of Akbar’s daughters and other one is that of daughter of Jahangir. Another grave buried on the west side of southern vestibule is of Shukru-un-nisa another of Akbar’s daughter.
Akbar’s Tomb is not just an architectural marvel but also an important archaeological site. Excavations around Sikandra have unearthed relics and artifacts that shed light on the Mughal period’s lifestyle and artistic sensibilities. The preservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) ensure that this heritage site remains a window into the past.
The tomb complex also includes several smaller structures, such as the tombs of Akbar’s daughters and other courtiers. These lesser-known monuments offer additional insight into the court culture and familial ties of the Mughal era.
Kanch Mahal
There is another building at Sikandara is the Kanch Mahal, located to the south east corner of Akbar’s tomb. It is a very fine specimen of 17th century Mughal architecture, and it is said to have built by Jahangir’s wife Jodh Bai. It is two storeys high built in bricks, lime mortar and red sand stone is beautifully carved from top to bottom. The northern façade of the structure is divided into numerous panels decorated with various motifs which include geometrical and floral pattern, moulded brackets, pendants etc. Tiles have been used mainly over the roof of windows.
Nearby Monuments and Attractions
A visit to Akbar’s Tomb can be combined with exploring several nearby historical sites:
- Mariam’s Tomb: The final resting place of Akbar’s wife, Mariyam-uz-Zamani, located just a few kilometers from Sikandra.
- Taj Mahal: No visit to Agra is complete without witnessing the unparalleled beauty of this world-famous monument.
- Agra Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site offering a deep dive into Mughal military architecture and royal history.
- Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb: Often called the Baby Taj, this marble mausoleum is a precursor to the Taj Mahal’s design.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Akbar’s Tomb is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring outdoor sites. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography and a more peaceful experience.
Avoid visiting during peak summer (April to June) due to high temperatures, and consider weekdays for fewer crowds.
Conclusion: The Eternal Resting Place of Akbar the Great
Akbar’s Tomb in Sikandra stands not just as a mausoleum but as a symbol of the emperor’s vision, tolerance, and artistic spirit. Its architectural brilliance, lush gardens, and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Agra’s rich heritage.
As Rabindranath Tagore wrote, “The butterfly counts not months but moments, and has time enough.”
In the tranquil ambiance of Akbar’s Tomb, time slows down, allowing visitors to savor the beauty and history of this extraordinary monument.
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