Shah Jahan and the Taj Mahal

In 1631, the Mogul Empire, led by Sha Jahan, spanned from modern-day Pakistan to Southern India. Sha Jahan's marriage to Mumtaz Mahal, initially arranged for political reasons, grew into a deep bond. Mumtaz accompanied Sha Jahan on many campaigns and died in 1631 after giving birth to their 14th child. Devastated, Sha Jahan considered abdicating but instead commissioned the Taj Mahal as her resting place.

What was the geographical extent of the Mogul Empire during Shah Jahan's reign?

• From Afghanistan to Sri Lanka

• From Nepal to the Maldives

• From modern-day Pakistan to Southern India

• From Iran to Bangladesh

How many wives did Shah Jahan have?

• Three

• Four

• Two

• One

What was the initial reason for Shah Jahan's marriage to Mumtaz Mahal?

• Political reasons

• Love at first sight

• Religious beliefs

• Family tradition

How many children did Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal have together?

• Sixteen

• Ten

• Twelve

• Fourteen

What was a notable aspect of Mumtaz Mahal's life with Shah Jahan?

• She was a renowned poet

• She stayed in the palace while he campaigned

• She accompanied him on many campaigns

• She ruled the empire in his absence

What was Shah Jahan's initial reaction to Mumtaz Mahal's death?

• He declared war

• He went into seclusion

• He immediately remarried

• He abdicated the throne

What drastic change happened to Shah Jahan after Mumtaz Mahal's death?

• He fell ill

• He became mute

• His beard turned white overnight

• He lost his eyesight

Who was Shah Jahan's heir at the time of Mumtaz Mahal's death?

• Akbar

• Aurangzeb

• Jahangir

• Dara Shikoh

What did Shah Jahan decide to build in memory of Mumtaz Mahal?

• The Taj Mahal

• A new capital city

• A grand mosque

• A university

Where did Shah Jahan choose to build the Taj Mahal?

• Jaipur

• Agra

• Mumbai

• Delhi