The focus of this discussion is a historical novel by John Shors titled “Beneath a Marble Sky.” The narrative centers on Jahanara Begum, a Mughal princess, and her profound role in the construction of the Taj Mahal. It blends historical fact with fictionalized elements to explore themes of love, loss, and devotion within the context of 17th-century India.
The work provides readers with an accessible entry point into understanding a significant period of Indian history and appreciating the artistic and architectural grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Through a personal and emotional narrative, it humanizes historical figures and offers a more intimate perspective on events surrounding the creation of one of the world’s most iconic structures. The novel can serve as a gateway to further exploration of Mughal history, art, and culture.
