A photograph of the Taj Mahal feels almost incomplete without its reflection in the clear water channel in the gardens in front. One of the most distinct elements of Mughal architecture, these gardens with streams, fountains and flowers were meant to symbolically represent ‘paradise’. Emperor Babar, who arrived in India from Uzbekistan in the 16th century CE introduced Mughal gardens in India, as he wished to recreate the beauty of Persian paradise gardens in the subcontinent’s hot environment.
The design was a pattern called charbagh , where four channels of water intersected in a plus shape forming a large pool in the centre. Water was the soul of the Mughal garden, reflecting the beauty of the skies and Nature. Hydraulic engineering systems like aqueducts, wells and cisterns brought water to the garden from the nearest water body.
Mughal gardens were meant to be a treat for all the senses, with fragrant flowers like roses and marigolds, fruit trees, sounds of flowing water, and birdsong. The emperors loved the outdoors and the gardens were used not just for pleasure but also for business, as the kings held meetings and talked strategy. A photo of the Taj Mahal clicked between 1865 and 1875 | Photo Credit: Picryl Picture perfect The most famous Mughal monument, the Taj Mahal, had its own special gardens.
Unlike a usual charbagh where the mausoleum is in the middle of the garden, here the marble monument is set at the far end, rising majestically against the backdrop o.
