Marble domes of Aurangabad’s Bibi Ka Maqbara to get new glow

News:The Archaeological Survey of India(ASI) will undertake scientific conservation of Bibi Ka Maqbara located in Aurangabad,Maharashtra.

Facts:

About Bibi Ka Maqbara:

  • Bibi ka Maqbara is a famous 17th century Mughal-era monument in the city of Aurangabad,Maharashtra.
  • The maqbara was commissioned in 1660 by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the memory of his first and chief wife Dilras Banu Begum.
  • The structure is known as the ‘Taj of the Deccan’ because of its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
  • The domes, minarets and the marble screens inside the Maqbara are built in marble.
  • The Maqbara has four gardens based on Charbagh design like most of the Mughal gardens.It is divided into four equal parts with the main mausoleum at the centre.

Additional information:

About Archaeological Survey of India(ASI):

  • Archaeological Survey of India(ASI) is the premier organization for the archaeological research, scientific analysis, excavation of archaeological sites, conservation and preservation of protected monuments.
  • It is an attached office under the Department of Culture, Ministry of Culture.
  • It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham who was the first Director-General of ASI.