This tomb serves not only as the final resting place of Aurangzeb but also signifies the conclusion of the Mughal Empire and the end of India’s medieval history. It is from this point that the modern history of India begins.
This is the tomb of a man who took the lives of his close relatives, imprisoned his father for eight years, and engaged in relentless battles for half a century. He is regarded as one of the most controversial figures in history, driven by bloody ambition for the throne. A fervent follower of Islam, he is often labeled as a destroyer of temples and is known for enforcing the Jazia tax on non-Muslims, which led to forced conversions. However, some historians argue that while he prohibited the construction of new temples, he did contribute to the upkeep of existing ones. He was also known for his aversion to extravagant spending on palatial structures. The only notable architectural work attributed to him is the Moti Masjid, located within the Red Fort in Delhi, as he preferred not to leave the fort for his prayers. He had also contributed Rs. 7 lakh for Bibi ka Maqbara (Black Taj), a tomb of his first wife and chief consort. Those days, Taj Mahal was built for Rs. 320 lakh.
He is ironically interred merely 5 kilometers from the village of his most cherished adversary, Shivaji Maharaj, known today as Ellora.
Location
Khultabad Village is located 5 kilometers from the Ellora Caves, along the route to Aurangabad in Maharashtra, India. Approximately 2 kilometers from the main road, one can find the first gate that leads to the tomb of Aurangzeb. The area distinctly resembles a village and is primarily inhabited by individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The surroundings consist of small, hut-like residences. It appears that these gates have been constructed by local authorities in recent years.
Our Itinerary
During our journey from Aurangabad to Ellora, we made a stop at the tomb located in Khultabad. I had a profound desire and curiosity to visit this tomb.
Shirdi- Shani Signapur-Aurangabad-Ajanta-Aurangabad-Khultabad- Ellora-Daultabad- Aurangabad
It appears that this is governed by a system of trust, with neither the state nor a central ASI playing a role in its management. The local community is overseeing this initiative and appears to take pride in their association with Aurangzeb.
The area around the tomb in Khultabad.
Entrance to the tomb courtyard.
I was just standing in front of the tomb of Aurangzeb when a caretaker appeared in front of me all of a sudden and started stating about Aurangzeb and his tomb without my asking. I was in a dilemma about what to do and tossed a tip of Rs. 20. He seemed to be so happy. The so simple tomb of a Badshah, who killed his close kins and fought incessant battles for 50 years, ruled the whole Indian subcontinent just about 350 years ago.
The courtyards surrounding the tomb of Aurangzeb also contain the tomb of his son, Azam Shah, as well as that of Aurangzeb’s spiritual mentor, Saint Syed Zainuddin.
Paithan saris are renowned globally, and the taxi driver will make a stop at these shops on the return journey to Aurangabad.
Epilogue
This tomb may appear quite unremarkable, yet the individual interred within it has significantly influenced Indian history and culture. Even in contemporary Indian politics, this legacy occasionally surfaces. Thus, I felt compelled to visit this historical landmark.
Experiencing this modest tomb, which signifies the conclusion of the formidable Mughal Empire and the medieval era in India, was exhilarating. It was my aspiration to pay homage to this site. Although it seems ordinary at first glance, this tomb is far from it; it belongs to a ruler who fervently utilized religion and sought to emulate Babur. He governed with the authority of a king and the resolve of a warrior, all while leading a life of simplicity.
सब कुछ पा कर भी हासिले ज़िंदगी कुछ भी नहीं,
मैंने देखे हैं एक से एक सिकंदर खाली हाथ जाते हुए !
Views: 11
Aurangzeb Alamgir has been South Asia’s greatest and most righteous emperor. Economically, India, especially Bengal, reached its highest point because of his laws and policies. You have portrayed him negatively. He is falsely accused of demolishing temple, indeed he built many and paid for their maintenance. He did not spare his relatives because justice comes at first, just like the 2nd Caliph of Islam Umar. His natural death marks the beginning of the European invasion of India. Today India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh need a ruler like the great Aurangzeb.