Compare Agra, Fathpur Sikri and Shahjahanabad as Mughal capital towns.

Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, and Shahjahanabad are three significant Mughal capital towns that reflect different phases of Mughal architectural and urban development. Each city was established by Mughal emperors for strategic, political, and cultural reasons, leaving distinct legacies in the history of Mughal India.

Agra:
Agra, located on the banks of the Yamuna River, served as the Mughal capital during the reign of Emperor Akbar and part of Shah Jahan's reign. It was a strategic center for governance and military operations. Agra is renowned for iconic Mughal monuments, most notably the Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Other notable structures in Agra include the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors.

Fatehpur Sikri:
Fatehpur Sikri, located near Agra, was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. The city was conceived as a grand architectural complex showcasing Akbar's vision of religious tolerance and imperial power. Fatehpur Sikri is known for its impressive red sandstone buildings, including the Buland Darwaza, Jama Masjid, and Panch Mahal. However, due to water shortages, the city was abandoned after a short period, and the capital was moved back to Agra.

Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi):
Shahjahanabad, now known as Old Delhi, was founded by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 as the new capital of the Mughal Empire. The city was designed on a grand scale, with impressive fortifications, wide boulevards, and iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort and Jama Masjid. Shahjahanabad became a center of commerce, culture, and administration, attracting artisans, traders, and scholars from across the empire. The city remained the Mughal capital until the British East India Company shifted their administrative center to Calcutta in 1911.

Comparison:

• Architectural Style: Agra and Fatehpur Sikri showcase Mughal architecture with intricate carvings, marble inlays, and Persian-inspired designs, while Shahjahanabad features red sandstone structures with a blend of Islamic and Indian architectural elements.
• Urban Planning: Fatehpur Sikri was a planned city with centralized administration and religious tolerance, whereas Agra and Shahjahanabad evolved organically over time, with dense residential neighborhoods and bustling markets.
• Cultural Significance: Agra is known for the Taj Mahal, a symbol of Mughal art and love, while Fatehpur Sikri reflects Akbar's religious pluralism. Shahjahanabad was a vibrant cultural center, known for its bazaars, festivals, and royal court.

In summary, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, and Shahjahanabad represent distinct phases of Mughal urban planning, architecture, and cultural development. Each city contributed uniquely to the Mughal legacy and remains integral to India's historical and architectural heritage.