Jodha in Akbar's shadow

Jodha in Akbar's shadow

The controversy around Jodha Akbar' has made it shockingly apparent that historians - both real and wannabe - have made the mistake of focusing so much on the Emperor Akbar that those around him have been neglected. Today, tourists coming to Sikandra make a beeline for the Emperor's tomb, turning a blind eye to everything else that is around including the tomb of his wife, Mariam Zamani.

This tomb is situated about a kilometer away from that of Akbar, just off the main road to Delhi. Located within a compound managed by the ASI, this tomb is outwardly in a decent state but the work of vandals becomes apparent when you step inside with the area's lovebirds having scribbled their promises of unending affection all over a monument they can never appreciate. Till some years ago, this building was used to house the printing establishment of a Mission orphanage. The ASI took it over and restoration work is now in progress.

Interestingly, the ASI slab at the entrance proclaims the tomb to be that of Mariam Zamani, a princess of Amber who married Akbar and later gave birth to Jahangir. In light of the controversy, this proclamation is nothing short of sensational. Keeping in mind the facts that are coming out now, the ASI would be well advised to do a bit more homework before such a proclamation. The building looks identical from the front and back and unlike other Mughal era structures, the back entrance is not a dummy but can be used. Also, the grave itself is underground with a flight of steps leading to it. All in all, whatever status Mariam Zamani may have had in her lifetime, her resting place is now dignified.
Getting there: Sikandra is a suburb of Agra, 203 kms from Delhi and makes for a good few hours of exploration while driving down from Delhi.