Emperor Shah Jahan & Mumtaz Mahal

In this episode of Love Through the Ages, we turn our sights to the Mughal Empire of 17th-century India and the legendary romance between Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. From their fateful meeting at the height of the empire’s opulence to the devastating loss that propelled the Emperor into a profound grief, we delve into the life and love story that inspired the creation of the Taj Mahal.

We’ll explore how Mumtaz Mahal not only captured the Emperor’s heart but became a trusted confidante and influential figure at court—accompanying him on military campaigns and championing charities among the empire’s poorest citizens. We’ll also uncover the dramatic circumstances of her untimely death and the monumental tribute Shah Jahan built in her memory. Join us as we shine a light on the architectural marvel that still stands as a testament to undying devotion, and discover little-known facts and legends that make the Taj Mahal one of the greatest love stories ever told.

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Bibliography

1. Bernier, François.

  Travels in the Mogul Empire, A.D. 1656–1668. Translated by Archibald Constable, Oxford University Press, 1916.  

   A firsthand account by a French traveler and physician at the Mughal court, offering observations on the empire under Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb.

2. Eraly, Abraham.  

  The Mughal Throne: The Saga of India’s Great Emperors. Phoenix, 2004.  

   Explores the rise, zenith, and eventual decline of the Mughal Empire, including detailed portraits of rulers like Shah Jahan.

3. Findly, Ellison Banks.  

  “The Capture of Maryam-uz-Zamānī's Ship: Mughal Women and European Traders.” Journal of the American Oriental Society, vol. 108, no. 2, 1988, pp. 227–238.  

   Provides insight into the role of royal Mughal women in commerce and governance, shedding light on the power dynamics at court.

4. Richards, John F.  

  The Mughal Empire. The New Cambridge History of India, vol. 1.5, Cambridge University Press, 1993.  

   A comprehensive study of Mughal political, cultural, and social life, covering key figures like Shah Jahan and his consorts.

5. Tillotson, Giles.  

  Taj Mahal. Harvard University Press, 2008.  

   Offers architectural and cultural analysis of the Taj Mahal, with historical context about its construction and symbolism.

6. Tirmizi, S. A. I.  

  Edicts from the Mughal Harem. Idarah-i Adabiyat-i Delli, 1979.  

   A collection of farmāns (royal decrees) and documents illuminating the influence of women in the imperial household.

7. Wescoat Jr., James L.  

  “The Great Gardens of the Mughal Empire.” Muqarnas, vol. 14, 1997, pp. 143–165.  

   Discusses the Persian-influenced charbagh design, including descriptions of the landscaping around the Taj Mahal.

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