Humayun's Tomb Complex - Barber's Tomb

(Nai-ka-Gumbad)

The figure 999 carved on one of the graves inside the monument is the only clue to the date of this monument. The figure, it is assumed, stands for the Hijra date corresponding to 1590-91, a date consistent with the architectural style of the building. No one knows who is buried in this picturesque tomb of red and grey sandstone, locally known as the Barber's Tomb (Nai-ka-Gumbad). Historians conjecture that it was built for the emperor's favourite nai (barber).

The tomb stands on a podium 2.44 metres high and 24.3 metres square, reached by seven steps from the south. The building is square on plan and consists of a single compartment covered with a double dome. The inner dome is of unusual design and consists of a small central cupola carried on four intersecting and arched ribs. The two marble graves inside are inscribed with verses from the Quran. Outside there is a portal-arch 7 metres high on each side. The outer dome which is shouldered, rises from a 16-sided drum and is crowned by an inverted lotus finial-base, though the finial is now missing. At each corner of the main structure is a pavilion (chhattri) that still retains the remains of blue, green and yellow tile inlay.

Mihrab