Along with my friend Asma Chishty, CEO of Destinations Media, this summer I also explored the Shahdara complex which holds the shrines of Emperor Jahangir (1569-1627) and his Empress Noor Jahan (1577-1645).

The fourth Mughal emperor, a connoisseur, and aesthete lived life with an equal measure of flair, good governance, and contradictions. A spoilt, bratty prince he matured into a thoughtful, strong, and wise ruler—though whimsical at times, cruel at others, and paradoxical always—he presided over the wealthiest empire in the world. He possessed the most remarkable eye for detail in everything he did. He gave the empire a new language of power and majesty while also struggling with his addiction issues.

The formidable Noor Jahan, the most influential queen of South Asia, stepped into the breach with her brilliant mind and strategic finesse. Her legendary beauty was surpassed only by her sense of history and observation. With maturity and strength, she overcame the odds to masterfully steer a massive kingdom—often from behind the scenes—while politically maneuvering (and failing) for her son-in-law to be Jahangir’s heir apparent.

I hope you enjoy this mini documentary!