Chini Ka Rauza

Chini Ka Rauza is a 17th-century funerary monument located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, about one kilometre north of Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. Built in 1635, it is the tomb of Afzal Khan Mullah, a Persian poet, scholar and prime minister under Emperor Shah Jahan. It is notable for its distinctive glazed tile work called chini, Persian inscriptions, and Indo-Persian architectural style.

Visitors can expect a rectangular tomb structure set on the Yamuna riverbank, surrounded by a garden enclosure. The exterior and interior are decorated with remnants of glazed ceramic tiles in blue, green and yellow, and Persian calligraphy. The central chamber contains the cenotaph of Afzal Khan. The monument is partially weathered and less crowded than major Agra sites, offering quiet viewing of Mughal-era tile craftsmanship and river views.

Built in 1635 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Chini Ka Rauza is the tomb of Afzal Khan Mullah Shirazi, a Persian poet, scholar and wazir (prime minister) to Shah Jahan. Afzal Khan died in 1639 in Lahore and was buried here. The monument is an early example of glazed tile decoration in Mughal architecture and reflects Persian influence.

The monument is noted for its distinctive chini (glazed tile) decoration, a Persian-influenced technique rare in Agra. It represents the Indo-Persian architectural synthesis of the Shah Jahan period and showcases Persian calligraphy and floral tile art, illustrating cultural exchange between Persia and Mughal India.