Shah Jahan

Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor, was born on January 5, 1592, and died on January 22, 1666. He reigned from 1628 to 1658. Known for commissioning the construction of the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan left a significant mark on Mughal architecture.

Shah Jahan, born on January 5, 1592, as Shahab-ud-din Muhammad Khurram, was the fifth Mughal emperor, reigning from 1628 to 1658. Son of Emperor Jahangir and grandson of Akbar the Great, Shah Jahan is best known for his remarkable architectural achievements.

The most famous of these is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal, built in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. This mausoleum, located in Agra, is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan also oversaw the construction of the Red Fort in Delhi and the Jama Masjid mosque, both significant examples of Mughal architecture.

His reign was marked by a period of great economic prosperity and cultural flourishing. However, towards the end of his reign, Shah Jahan was imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb, who usurped the throne in 1658. Shah Jahan spent his final years in captivity at the Agra Fort, where he died on January 22, 1666.

Shah Jahan is often called "The Builder of the Taj Mahal," and his reign is considered the pinnacle of Mughal architecture.

India • 40 • Mughal dynasty

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