Rani Sipri Tomb

The tomb of Rani Sipri stands near Astodia Gate. This architectural gem is one of the most elegant of the mosque and mausoleum ensembles in the city of Ahmedabad. It is also called Masjid-e-Nagina, literally jewel of a mosque. James Fergusson described it as one of the most exquisite buildings in the world.

Rani Sipri Masjid was built in 1514 at the orders of Queen Subha Rai well-known as Rani Sipri or Rani Asni.

The wife of Sultan Mahmud Begada, she is said to have commissioned the mosque and mausoleum after her husband executed their son for some misdemeanour. Because of the expansion of the road, the ensemble is now fenced.

The ensemble is dominated by the tomb – the queen’s grave lies in front of the mosque, sheltered by a mausoleum. The mausoleum has a large dome over a square layout with 20 outer columns, 12 inner columns and walls made of intricately latticed screens (jalis). The stylish mosque has several Hindu carvings.

The pillared sanctuary has an open facade to the east and fine tracery work on the jalis along the west wall. The mihrab is beautiful and typical of Gujarat. The mosque has an intricately carved minaret that is geometric in shape.