The Ibrahim Rouza is by far one of the prettiest buildings that we saw in Bijapur. The Ibrahim Rouza attracts its fair share of tourists. I’m not sure whether it was because we arrived mid-afternoon, but the crowds were definitely less in comparison to the Gol Gumbaz.
The Ibrahim Rouza has both, a mausoleum as well as a mosque. It is a majestic monument that leaves the viewer in awe as soon as they catch a glimpse of it.
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The Architecture Of The Ibrahim Rouza
Just look at the symmetry!!!
The Ibrahim Rouza was constructed to serve as a mausoleum for the remains of Ibrahim Adil Shah II. The king was buried along side his wife and his two sons. As mentioned before the Ibrahim Rouza consist of two main structures: A mosque and the mausoleum.
The symmetry of the two structures is one of the first things that you notice about the monument. Four minarets tower at each of the four corners of each building. A dome covers their tops. If you look closely, you will notice that the dome is surrounded by a number of petal like structures.
It said that these were built to mimic a lotus. Unlike the Gol Gumbaz, visitors do not have access to the top of the minarets of both the mausoleum and the mosque. A fountain lies between both the structures.
The arches in the mosque.
This however is what you can observe from a far. As you move closer to the structures, the intricate work on the walls comes into view. A lot of these carvings have stood the test time. Others however have started to crumble in parts.
Despite everything, the Ibrahim Rouza is very well maintained. The inner part of the mausoleum is dark. The doors and windows provide the only light that enters the space. It illuminates the graves of the king and his family.
The mosque on the other hand is more well-lit. This is largely because it is open on one side which allows light to illuminate the inner sanctum. If you visit the Ibrahim Rouza, don’t forget to look up in the mosque. The arches that formed the ceiling were particularly beautiful.
Etiquette In The Ibrahim Rouza
The dome of the mausoleum.
Like the Gol Gumbaz, one is not allowed to wear footwear in the Ibrahim Rouza, to show respect. This however can make it difficult for people who are not used to walking bare feet. A good tip is to avoid the Ibrahim Rouza during the afternoon.
The ground heats up a lot and your feet won’t be too happy about it. The mausoleum is a resting place and in deference to the dead it is nice to be respectful and maintain silence.
The Ibrahim Rouza has a very peaceful feel to it and you will enjoy calm environment.
The Ibrahim Rouza was one of the most beautiful Indian monuments that I have seen in my life. A large amount of credit goes to the fact that it has been maintained well.
The lack of large crowds also keeps the place quiet and peaceful. Even the gardens are green and well-manicured.
Pause a while when you visit. Sit in a spot and imagine what it must have been like all those years ago.
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