Located next to the serene Parameshwar Talab in Chanderi, the Shehzadi ka Roza is a 15th-century structure that carries with it both historical and emotional significance. This tomb, thought to be a memorial to a woman named Mehrunissa, tells a tragic tale of love, loss, and a father’s sorrow. While some accounts suggest she was a princess, others say she was the daughter of the then Hakim (governor). Regardless of her exact lineage, the story that surrounds her death is one of deep emotion and timeless legacy.
The Tragic Love Story
According to local legends, Mehrunissa was deeply in love with the chief of the army. However, her father, the Hakim, disapproved of the union. When his pleas for her to abandon the relationship went unheeded, the Hakim took drastic measures to ensure his wishes were fulfilled. The army was preparing for a battle, and so, he secretly hired soldiers to ensure that the commander, Mehrunissa’s lover, would not return alive.
The commander was grievously injured in the battle, but miraculously, he managed to escape and make his way back to Chanderi. Unfortunately, his strength gave out, and he collapsed from his horse at the exact spot where the tomb now stands. Upon hearing the news of her lover’s fate, Mehrunissa rushed to his side, only to find that he had already passed away from his wounds.
Devastated by the loss, Mehrunissa could not bear the sorrow and ended her own life beside her lover, forever united in death. Her father’s grief over the situation, despite his earlier actions, led him to bury them both together in the same tomb, forever intertwined in life and death.
A Symbol of Impossible Love
In an act of deep sorrow and reverence, the Hakim decided to construct a beautiful tomb for his daughter and her lover. The tomb was placed in a spot that was symbolic of their impossible love — surrounded by a pond, which acted as a barrier, ensuring that no one could reach the tomb. This pond, which no longer exists, is said to have symbolized the inaccessibility of their love, a poignant metaphor for the tragic fate they shared.
Today, the Shehzadi ka Roza stands alone, surrounded by farmland, with no trace of the original pond that once encircled it. The tomb, with its simple yet powerful presence, serves as a reminder of the tragic tale of Mehrunissa and her lover, a love that defied all odds but was ultimately thwarted by fate.
A Royal Connection: The Chatris of the Bundela Kings
Nearby, visitors can also see the chatris (cenotaphs) of two prominent Bundela rulers. These are the chatris of Bharat Shah Bundela and his son, Raja Devi Singh Bundela, who ruled Chanderi during the 17th century. Bharat Shah Bundela ruled from 1642 to 1654, and his son, Raja Devi Singh Bundela, took over from 1654 to 1663. These royal structures add another layer of historical depth to the area, making it a significant spot for those interested in the rich history of Chanderi.
Visiting Shehzadi ka Roza
For anyone visiting Chanderi, the Shehzadi ka Roza offers not just a glimpse of 15th-century architecture but also a powerful emotional connection to the past. The story of Mehrunissa and her lover, entwined forever in their tomb, serves as a reminder of the eternal nature of love and loss. It’s a poignant piece of history, preserved in stone and legend, that continues to resonate with visitors today.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of romantic tales, or simply someone looking to explore Chanderi’s unique cultural heritage, Shehzadi ka Roza is a must-visit monument. The blend of architectural beauty and its heartbreaking story makes this site one of Chanderi’s most memorable landmarks.
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