Ram Bagh: Agra’s Historical Garden with a Mughal Legacy

In the city of Agra, a historical garden named Ram Bagh stands gracefully on the banks of the Yamuna River. While its name suggests a reverence to Lord Ram, the garden’s origin actually traces back to the Mughal ruler, Babur.

According to historian Raj Kishore Raje, Babur established the garden, initially naming it ‘Aram Bagh,’ during his visit to Agra in 1526. The scorching heat of the city compelled Babur to envision a serene retreat where he could find respite from the oppressive weather conditions.

Over time, the garden gained significance under the rule of Babur’s successors. Akbar, Babur’s son, elevated the Mughal dynasty to great heights, while Jahangir, the successor of Akbar, undertook the renovation of the garden between 1615 and 1619. Despite these developments, the garden retained its original name, ‘Aram Bagh,’ in honor of Babur’s creation.

Aram Bagh, located on the opposite side of the Yamuna River in Agra, showcased a central fountain surrounded by lush greenery. Its enchanting beauty earned it the moniker ‘Bagh-e-Gulafsan’ and its layout adhered to the traditional Mughal architectural pattern known as ‘Charbagh.’

However, during the Maratha rule in Agra from 1774 to 1803, the garden’s name underwent a change. It was renamed ‘Ram Bagh’ and retained this title even during the British colonial period, according to Raj Kishore Raje.

Today, Ram Bagh is a protected site under the Archaeological Survey of India and attracts tourists to Agra. Unfortunately, due to inadequate road connectivity, the garden remains relatively unknown, resulting in fewer visitors. Nevertheless, it remains a testament to Agra’s history and the Mughal legacy it encompasses.