The history of women in India has been truly eventful, but not many textbooks will tell you this. Women were no less than anyone, from fighting wars to commemorating significant temples and monuments. Let’s dive deep into the past.
The first garden tomb on the Indian subcontinent, Humayun’s tomb was built by Hamida Banu Begum. She commissioned Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian architect, to construct this magnificent monument in 1569. Persian and Indian craftsmen worked together to build this grand red sandstone mausoleum that is famous for its inlaid tile work and carved stone screens that integrate decorative elements from both cultures
Virupaksha temple by Queen Loka Mahadevi was built in 740 AD after the successful military campaigns of King Vikramaditya II. The temple with its Dravidian architecture has a vast quadrangle surrounded by small cells or shrines that have excellently wrought episodes from the Puranas. Stories from Hindu epics are etched so passionately on the walls, pillars, and niches, that you can easily lose track of time. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a worn-down statue of Nandi right in front of it. This temple was also known for giving women an equal and respectable role in temple administration.
Mirjan Fort by Queen Chennabhairadevi is a lofty fort enclosed by a double layer built for the queen herself to rule her empire. Developed from mud and laterite stones, a blend of Mughal and Deccan architectural style. The fort is known for its architectural elegance. It is a small yet elegant fort built and is approached through a series of wide steps that lead to its interior. Its high double walls are built by laterite stones and have bastions with high turrets. The Pepper Queen established and lived in this mighty fort during the 16th century for about 54 years.
A monument was erected by Noor Jehan to pay homage to her father Mirza Ghiyas Beg, Itimad- Ud-daulah built-in 1622. India's first marble mausoleum, on the banks of the Yamuna resembling a magnificent jewel box with its red and yellow sandstone inlay work. Beautiful floral, stylized, arabesque, and geometrical designs have been depicted on the whole exterior in inlay and mosaic techniques, in various pleasing tints and tones. Created with a uniquely feminine touch for its elegance and meticulously work of art.
Rani ki vav by Tani Udaymati – being the UNESCO world heritage site in the Patna city of Gujarat was constructed in memory of her husband, King Bhima 1 after his death. Displaying the pinnacle of craftsmanship in stepwell construction is designed as an inverted temple that is divided into seven levels, with sculptural panels of unmatched artistic quality. The pillars at Rani ki Vav are intricately carved with imposing floral patterns and sculptures of various gods and goddesses. The upper portion of the pillars has sculptures of women carved in a manner that appears as if their shoulders are supporting the roof, reflecting a fine specimen of the Maru-Gurjara style of architecture.
