Safdarjung’s Tomb in all its glory!

If you are ever wandering in the Jorbagh area of Delhi (very close to the metro station of the same name on the yellow line), do make it a point to take in a glimpse of Safdarjung’s Tomb. USP? It’s extraordinary beauty for one, at least if you are not a stickler for architectural perfection. The fact that it was one final shot at grandeur during the disintegrating phase of the Mughal dynasty (1700s) only adds to its importance. The next time anything as massive and ambitious  would be created, Delhi would be giving birth to New Delhi. And if that’s not enough to convince you to visit, let the pictures below do the talking!

Safdarjung’s Tomb

Many purists and historians have criticized the tomb for its lack of exquisite proportions (think Taj Mahal, then check out the large bulbous dome of this building). But to my untrained eyes, this is beauty incarnate.

As much as the tomb’s proportions have been criticized by purists, it remains a beautiful sight silhouetted in the evening light

The person who lies buried in this tomb was the same Safdarjung who has lent his name to so many areas of the city today. He was the prime minister during the reign of the weak emperor Ahmed Shah, but for all practical purposes, he was the real ruler of Hindustan.

The richly carved marble cenotaph. The actual grave lies in an inaccessible crypt below this.

In those days, the mausoleum was surrounded by perfectly manicured Persian gardens. But even today, if you are lucky, you may be able to view the splendor of the gardens. If nothing else, you could just enjoy the grassy lawns like the many couples who frequent this place.

Safdarjung’s Tomb in all its glory…