Badshah Tomb
The Badshah Tomb marks the final resting place of the mother of the famous ruler of Kashmir, Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin (1421 AD to 1474 AD), in Srinagar. It has been erected on the plinth of an old Buddhist temple. An unusual five-domed brick structure, it is considered a unique piece of architecture, dating back to the 15th century. There are claims that it looks more like a structure from the Byzantine empire. The tomb is a peaceful place and provides a great view of the surrounding greenery from the top. When seen from the new Zaina Kadal (bridge), the city's oldest bridge, it forms an important part of the classic view of Old Town Srinagar.
River Jhelum flows near the Badshah Tomb. It is believed that Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin deliberately had the tomb erected next to a water body as per traditional Muslim beliefs and traditional ceremonies, rites and rituals.
Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin used to be fondly called the great king, the 'Budshah' or simply the 'Badshah' by his people. He ruled over Kashmir for over 50 years and that entire period is counted as one of the most peaceful periods that the region has ever seen. Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin was the son of Shah Mir, who started the rule of the Mughal dynasty in India in the mid-14th century, when he migrated to India from Central Asia. The sultan was loved and hailed by his people throughout his reign and after the death of his beloved mother, he had the Badshah Tomb built in her fond memory.
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Pic by Munawar ahmad
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