Isa Khan's Tomb: A Precursor to Mughal Grandeur

Isa Khan's Tomb, situated in the Humayun's Tomb complex, is a captivating historical site that offers a glimpse into the architectural transitions between the Lodi and Mughal periods. Constructed in 1547-1548, about 20 years before Humayun's Tomb, it stands as a testament to the legacy of Isa Khan Niazi, a noble who served in the courts of Sher Shah Suri and his son Islam Shah Suri. The tomb's octagonal design, a hallmark of the Lodi era, is built primarily of red sandstone and features a wide verandah. Each side has triple arched entrances adorned with blue, green, and yellow glazed tiles, showcasing intricate geometric and floral patterns. Slender, tapering pillars mark each corner of the octagon, adding a minaret-like appearance to the structure. The interior houses six graves, though the specific placement of Isa Khan's remains is not clearly identified. Adjacent to the tomb is a mosque, constructed around the same time, featuring three arched entrances decorated with glazed tiles and calligraphy. The mosque includes a central chamber with an elaborately decorated Mihrab on the western wall, crowned by a large dome. The complex is surrounded by sunken gardens, believed to be among the earliest examples of this design in India, which were rediscovered during restoration work. The tomb's architecture is thought to have influenced the design of Humayun's Tomb, marking a transition from Lodi to early Mughal styles. Restoration efforts by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India from 2011-2015 have helped preserve this historical treasure.