Safdarjung Tomb: History, Architecture, Safdarjung Garden and essential facts

Safdarjung's Tomb, located in Delhi, India, is a mausoleum made of sandstone and marble built in 1754 in the late Mughal Empire style for Nawab Safdarjung. The Tomb is considered an important monument in Indian history and architecture and is culturally and historically significant. As a result, it is a topic that has come up several times in UPSC exams over the years. 

Safdarjung's Tomb is one of the most important topics for the UPSC IAS exam. It covers a significant part of the 'Art and Architecture' (General Studies-1) syllabus and events of national importance in UPSC prelims. 

In this article, we shall study in detail the History, Architecture, Recent Updates, Garden of Safdarjung Tomb, and other essential information related to the UPSC exams.

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What is Safdarjung Tomb?

India's capital, Delhi, is home to the sandstone and marble Safdarjung Tomb. It was constructed in 1754 for Nawab Safdarjung in the late Mughal Empire style.

The Tomb, called 'Safdarjung Ka Maqbara,' is the last monumental garden tomb depicting the Mughal architectural style. Its domed and arched constructions in shades of red, brown, and white emit an air of vastness and an impressive presence. Safdarjung Tomb is located at the intersection of Safdarjung Road and Aurobindo Marg in New Delhi. It remains a popular tourist spot attracting both Indian and foreign tourists visiting Delhi

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Who was Safdar Jang?

Safdar Jang was a statesman who served as the ruler of Awadh under the Mughal Emperor, Mohammed Shah. 

He was born in 1708 in Persia (now Iran), Safdar Jang migrated to India in 1722. He became the Subadar Nawab of Oudh in 1739, succeeding his father-in-law and maternal uncle. Known for his administrative skills, he ruled Oudh until 1754 and played a crucial role in supporting the weakened Emperor Muhammad Shah. Bestowed with the title of 'Safdarjung,' he later became the Prime Minister of Hindustan in Delhi and also governed Kashmir. Safdar Jang returned to Awadh in 1753 and passed away a year later, leaving a lasting legacy as a powerful and influential ruler.

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History of Safdarjung Tomb

The Safdarjung Tomb was built by Nawab Shujaud Daula, the son of Safdarjung, in memory of his father, a Viceroy of Awadh, under the rule of the Mughal emperor Mohammed Shah. 

• Safdarjung Tomb, which was built in 1754, is the final garden tomb to be built in the late Mughal Empire Style. 
• It is the sandstone and marble mausoleum of Safdarjung, a popular name for the Mughal statesman Mirza Muqim Abul Mansur Khan. 
• While slabs from the Tomb of Abdul Rahim Khankhana were used in the construction of this monumental Tomb, it appears that architectural inspiration for the design came from the Humayun tomb.

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Why in News Recently?

The Safdarjung Tomb has been in the news recently for various reasons. 

• In September 2021, the dome of the Tomb was damaged due to heavy rains, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) started repairs. 
• In July 2019, the Tomb was illuminated with lights, making it the third ASI-protected monument in Delhi to be inspired by Red Fort and Purana Qila. 
• In August 2021, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia ordered an inquiry into the alleged conversion of a small tomb into a temple at Safdarjung Enclave's Humayunpur.
• These incidents highlight the importance of preserving historical monuments like the Safdarjung Tomb and protecting them from damage or misuse.

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Architecture of Safdarjung Tomb

Safdarjung Tomb is also referred to as 'Safdarjung Ka Maqbara' and is the last monumental garden tomb depicting the Mughal architectural style. 

• With its domed and arched red, brown, and white structures, it exudes an air of openness and an intimidating presence.
• The mausoleum is located in the heart of the Char Bagh layout, which also includes a ninefold floor plan, a five-part façade, and a sizable platform with a secret stairway.
• The main entry gate to the Tomb is double-storied with a five-part facade, all beautifully crafted in purple. 
• It also carries an inscription in Arabic that says, "When the hero of plain bravery departs from the transitory, may he become a resident of God's paradise."
• The Tomb comprises eight rooms, the central one enclosing Safdarjung's casket with a huge oblong room along each of the sides and tiny octadic rooms along the edges.
• The mausoleum can be reached via steps from the pedestal.
• With names like Jangli Mahal (Palace in the Woods), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), and Badshah Pasand (King's Favorite), the monument contains a number of smaller pavilions.

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Garden of Safdarjung Tomb

The Safdarjung Tomb is surrounded by a beautiful garden that is divided into four small square garden patches, resembling the four sections of a typical Mughal garden. 

• The garden is in the Mughal style and adds to the beauty of the tomb complex. 
• The garden has lush greenery and beautiful flowers that create a serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. 
• The water channels in the garden add to its beauty and provide a soothing sound for visitors. 
• The main entrance gate of the Tomb is made of red sandstone and has two stories with arched openings. 
• Visitors can enter through this gate and walk through the gardens before reaching the Tomb. 
• The interior of the Tomb with Safdarjung's cenotaph has a mysterious yet serene atmosphere that reflects the artistic excellence of Mughal architecture. 
• Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens while enjoying the beauty of the tomb complex. 
• The garden also provides an excellent backdrop for photography enthusiasts who want to capture its beauty. 
• Overall, the garden adds to the charm and grandeur of this magnificent mausoleum, making it one of Delhi's most popular tourist attractions.

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UPSC CSE Mains Question on Safdarjung Tomb

•  Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss. (UPSC Mains 2018)
•  Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate. (UPSC Mains 2016)
• The mesolithic rock-cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the times but also has a fine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically evaluate this comment. (UPSC Mains 2015)

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