7 Indian Monuments Built By Women That Are Still Standing As Timeless Symbols

Throughout our childhood, we’ve read in history textbooks about how emperors and kings built some of the most amazing historical monuments. Not just the monuments; we’re also familiar with the fascinating stories behind them, like the tale of the Taj Mahal, right? But did you know there are Indian monuments that women built to honour their husbands? While we often say that women are now moving ahead of their time, there are a few great women who have long been creating architectural marvels that still stand in glory today. Let’s take a moment to appreciate some of the greatest Indian monuments built by women.

Here Is A List Of Indian Monuments Built By Women 

1. Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat

Rani Ki Vav, also known as the ‘Queen’s Stepwell,’ was built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati. This great monument has placed itself on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In memory of her husband, King Bhimdev I, the queen built the most beautiful stepwells of the time. The backstory to building this marvellous stepwell was that the queen wanted to ensure that the people would recall her and her husband whenever they visited to collect water. Inspired by the Maru-Gurjara architectural style, this water reservoir is designed like an inverted temple. Standing on the banks of the Saraswati River, the seven levels of this stepwell are famous for their craftsmanship, as they feature intricate sculptures depicting mythological significance. 

2. Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

Another architectural marvel built by a woman has been recognised as a UNESCO Heritage Site. Hamida Banu Begum built Humayun’s Tomb in loving memory of her husband, Humayun. She was the first Mughal woman who contributed to Mughal architecture. Inspired by the Persian architectural style, the red sandstone mausoleum has an onion-shaped dome, and it is believed that the Taj Mahal took inspiration from its dome. The monument is standing in the middle of the charbagh garden.  The Charbagh, a Persian and Mughal garden style, was introduced to India for the very first time and went on to set a new trend in the world of architecture. This monument, built by a woman, is admired by tourists from around the world.

3. Lal Darwaza Masjid, Jaunpur

Behind the creation of this beautiful monument is Queen Rajye Bibi. She built Lal Darwaza in 1447 to honour Saint Saiyyad Ali Dawood Kutubbudin, who was her spiritual teacher. The mosque was named Lal Darwaza Masjid after the vermilion-painted gateway of Queen Bibi Rajye’s nearby royal palace. Inspired by the Atala Masjid, this majestic monument features three entrance gates. This place was the queen’s private space to offer namaz, and during her husband’s reign, she even started a school (madrasa) for girls, which stands right next to the masjid.

4. Itimad-ud-Daula, Agra

Itimad-ud-Daula is another amazing Indian monument built by a woman. The daughter of Mir Ghayas Beg, Nur Jahan, commissioned Itimad-ud-Daula between the years 1622 and 1628. This beautiful monument resembles a jewel box, as the marble walls of the structure are intricately carved with yellow and red stones along with a touch of coral. Nur Jahan’s son Shah Jahan took inspiration from Itimad-ud-Daula to build the Taj Mahal for his wife, Mumtaz. This beautifully delicate marble monument will amaze you with its architectural beauty; each carving on its walls reflects Nur Jahan’s love for her father, crafted with elegance and grace. 

Also Read: Taj Mahal Is Leaking! Thermal Scan Reveals Water Seepage In Main Dome

5. Dakshineshwar Kali Mandir, Kolkata

Dedicated to the goddess Kali, this temple is one of the most revered temples of Kolkata, which attracts many devotees each day. Wife to a well-known zamindar in Kolkata, Rani Rashmoni took over the job of her husband and contributed to many construction projects like making roads, buildings, libraries and more. This temple follows the traditional Nava-Ratna (nine spires) style, built on 20 acres of land. This monument is inspired by Bengali architecture, and its courtyard features twelve small temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the best Indian monuments built by women, which is worth visiting.

6. Mirjan Fort, Karnataka

Queen Chennabhairadevi was a great symbol of women’s empowerment in history. Mirjan Fort is situated on the banks of the Aghanashini River in the Uttar Kannada district. This fort was her major spot to produce and export the superior spices. She was also used to be called as the ‘Pepper Queen of India.’ The fort reflects the battles that happened in the bygone era and is still standing tall. It has preserved its architectural beauty, which is surrounded by lush greenery on all sides. Mirjan Fort is one of the marvellous Indian monuments built by women in our country.

Also Read: The Secret Black Taj Mahal of Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh

7. Mohinishwara Shivalaya Temple, Gulmarg

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir, Maharani Mohini Bai Sisodia, wife of the famous Dogra ruler Raja Hari Singh, built this small temple in 1915. Locally known as Rani Ji Temple or Maharani Shankar Temple, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s simple, minimal architecture beautifully complements the snow-covered hills surrounding it in Gulmarg. The temple’s design allows it to be seen from every corner of Gulmarg.

These Indian monuments stand as timeless reminders of the powerful role women have played in shaping India’s cultural heritage. Exploring these sites allows us to celebrate and honour the extraordinary contributions of these visionary women to our country.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Digvijay Kumar