Kale Khan ka Gumbad (also known as Kale Khan Ka Makbara), which translates to “Tomb of the Black Khan,” is the mausoleum of Mubarak Khan Lohani, a nobleman during the reign of Bahlol Lodi (ruled 1451-1489 CE), and likely the father of Darya Khan Lohani (whose tomb is 200m to the north-west of here).
Constructed in 1481 CE, this once-majestic square tomb now stands in a crumbling but evocative state, resting on its own high, sloping mound. Despite the wear and tear of time, it continues to dominate the surrounding area. The small lawn that encircles it, though landscaped with green grass and rows of palm trees, has become a gathering spot for couples from nearby shopping areas, students from local coaching centers, and smokers seeking a cool corner to escape the heat and enjoy some conversation.
The exterior of the tomb is designed to give the impression of a two-story structure. Narrow alcoves frame the central arch on each side, and this central arch is set within a larger recessed arch, which is itself embedded within a rectangular projecting facade. The roof, before transitioning into its well-crafted semi-circular dome, features a row of “kanguras” (battlement-like ornamentation) that also lines the drum, or base, of the dome. The dome, which is 6.86 meters in diameter from the inside and 12.80 meters from the outside, suggests a double-dome structure.
Three of the tomb’s sides have entrances, while the western side, which lacks an opening, serves as a mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca). The interior is in an even more dilapidated condition than the exterior, although traces of plaster medallions and an eight-pointed star pattern on the dome remain.
These remnants hint that the tomb may once have been vibrantly painted and decorated, but its original appearance is now lost. Inside the tomb are two graves, with the central one being unusually high, possibly marking the resting places of Mubarak Khan and his wife.
The origin of the name “Black Khan” is unclear. Some speculate it might refer to Mubarak Khan’s dark complexion, although no historical records confirm this. Another theory suggests that before the tomb’s previous restorations, it may have become severely blackened by pollution and the effects of weather, leading to the nickname.
Of all the Lodi-era monuments, Kale Khan ka Gumbad is considered the earliest. It marks a significant architectural transition from the predominantly octagonal pre-Lodi mausoleums to the more symmetrical square structures that became a hallmark of later Lodi tombs.
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