Nestled in the vibrant Dargah Bazar of Ajmer, Rajasthan, the Mosque of Bai Tilokdi Kalawant stands as a unique testimony to the rich cultural blend of music and architecture during the Mughal era. Built in 1652 A.D., this historical mosque was commissioned by Bai Tilokdi (Trilok Devi) Kalawant, the talented daughter of the legendary musician Mian Tansen. It offers visitors not just an architectural marvel but also a fascinating story of heritage, music, and devotion. The mosque reflects the simplicity and grace of Mughal architecture, with its central mihrab adorned by a Persian inscription. This beautifully crafted inscription, engraved in nastaliq script on a marble slab (12x14 inches), immortalizes the name of Bai Tilokdi. Perched 13 feet above the ground, it also reveals a lesser-known detail about her brother: though often referred to as Tantaray Khan by Abul Fazl, his original name was Bilas. Tilokdi, much like her father, was an accomplished musician. The mosque is a tribute to her artistic legacy and stands as a rare example of a structure associated with a woman from the Mughal court, intertwined with the lineage of one of India’s greatest musical icons. Though modest in size, the Mosque of Bai Tilokdi Kalawant offers an atmosphere of tranquility amidst the bustling lanes of Dargah Bazar. The detailed arches and marble elements reflect the architectural style typical of the Mughal period.
