Why was the tomb of Salim Chishti built in white marble?

While most of Sikri is red sandstone, the white marble tomb represents a rare early use of this precious material, symbolizing Akbar's high spiritual regard for the saint.

Akbar's Capitals: Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, and Lahore (2021 PYQ)

ID: MED_MUG_2021_121 Ref: Satish Chandra, Medieval India

Which of the following statements about Akbar are correct?
1. In 1560s, Akbar had the Fort of Agra constructed.
2. In 1570s, Akbar decided to build a new capital at Fatehpur Sikri.
3. Akbar also commissioned a white marble tomb of Shaikh Salim Chishti at Sikri.
4. In 1585, Akbar decided to shift the capital back to Agra.

AI Quick Summary (View Answer)

Correct Option: B

Akbar built the Agra Fort in the 1560s and established Fatehpur Sikri in the 1570s, featuring the tomb of Salim Chishti. In 1585, he moved the capital to Lahore to stabilize the northwest region.