Razia Sultan’s Tomb

Delhi Sultanate’s first and only woman ruler and hardly a memorial worth its name! Razia Sultan’s tomb lies unpretentious, unattended and unsung near Turkman Gate in Chandni Chowk. Razia Sultan ruled Delhi from 1236 to 1240. She was not only trained to manage the army but also administer kingdom if necessary. Despite being a trailblazer for women, Razia Sultan finds little place in history. Today, she rests in her grave in an open courtyard at Mohalla Bulbuli Khana along with her sister Sajia. Very basic to look at, the tomb consists of four walls, without roofs with two graves placed in the centre of the enclosure. Covered by dust and grime, it is clear that the tomb has suffered the ravages of time. Meanwhile, encroachments have elbowed their way in through a corner jutting in and an air conditioner duct coming out here and there. Some local residents have turned it into a living place of worship and come to offer namaz, prayers are also conducted every Friday. While the monument is not frequented by many tourists, it is definitely intriguing for history lovers. Lying very close to Sitaram Bazaar and Kalan Masjid, the tomb can be reached from the Chandni Chowk Metro Station.