Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor of India, is known for constructing the Taj Mahal. He commissioned the construction of this white marble mausoleum in 1632 as a tomb for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth that year. The Taj Mahal is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a testament to Shah Jahan’s love for his wife and his dedication to creating a lasting memorial to her.
Shah Jahan was born in 1592 as Prince Khurram, the third son of the Mughal emperor Jahangir. He was educated by some of the best scholars of the time and was trained in the art of warfare. In 1612, he married Mumtaz Mahal, who was the daughter of a Persian nobleman. Mumtaz Mahal was Shah Jahan’s favorite wife and they had 14 children together.
Shah Jahan became emperor in 1628 after his father’s death. He was a wise and capable ruler and his reign is considered to be the golden age of the Mughal Empire. He expanded the empire’s territory and built many beautiful buildings and monuments.
However, Shah Jahan’s life was devastated by the death of Mumtaz Mahal in 1631. He was so grief-stricken that he is said to have turned white overnight. He decided to build the Taj Mahal as a tomb for his beloved wife and as a testament to their love.