Shah Alam Tomb, Delhi.flicker.com |
Besides the tomb, there is an unnamed Mosque with three-domes, two prayer areas and five arches and in the main prayer chamber there is a provision for woman worshipers. The smaller raised area on pillars is covered with lattice stone screens all around to give privacy to women worshipers.Women were allowed to do Namaz in the holy place in those days, but with restrictions. Perhaps, it is one of the mosques in those days that allowed women to offer prayer there,
In the interior the floral designs on the convex surface is quite impressive and eye-catching. There is a smaller, single-domed structure across the tomb and the interiors are cooler because of high roof.
This tomb of saint named Shah Alam. was built by Ferozshah Tughlaq during his reign (1351-88) at Wazirabad. Shah Alam, being a famous saint, gained prominence during the rule of Feroze Shah Tughlaq in the 14th century. Historians say Shah Alam’s Tomb was erected by Feroze Shah Tughlaq himself after Shah Alam’s death. It is close to the banks of Yamuna River. In the near-by Timarpur area you can spot some partially worn-out structures of the medieval era. .
It is said in the 14th century, Timur moored in this area before crossing the Yamuna River at a critical time. The tomb is at the center of the courtyard facing the mosque. Built on a raised platform, this tomb has 12 solid pillars - three at each corner supporting the dome over them. There is another dome like structure with winding stairway made of stone steps to the upper level in this complex; from where you could see the old Wazirabad Bridge,
This mosque being in an isolated area away from the city, not that many people visit this place though this place carries the mortal remains of a holy saint. However, it is being well maintained bu security guards and others. That students from the nearby colleges use the premises for 'shaitani' was a bad news. However, this place is open for anybody who is interested in the history and heritage of this site.
The bridge across the Najafgarh nala close to the tomb is the oldest bridge of Delhi built in the 14th century. Even to day, it is strong and keeps going. https://www.flickr.com/photos/smitsandhir/8058808302/in/photostream/