Anup Talab — Attraction in Uttar Pradesh

Anup Talao, also known as the "Peerless Pool," is a key architectural feature within the royal complex of Fatehpur Sikri. Built around 1576 under Emperor Akbar’s reign, this ornamental water tank served as a central hub for intellectual and spiritual discourse, reflecting the emperor's inquisitive mind and his policy of religious tolerance.

The square-shaped, red sandstone tank is an architectural marvel. At its center lies a raised square platform, which is connected to the four sides of the pool by stone causeways. The unique layout of Anup Talao links several important surrounding buildings, including the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), the Panch Mahal (a five-story palace), and the Turkish Sultana's House. This strategic design allowed Akbar and his courtiers to move between these spaces, facilitating private meetings and philosophical discussions away from the main court.

The pool's historical significance goes beyond its architecture. It is said to have been the venue for Akbar's famous debates on religion and philosophy, where scholars and mystics from various faiths, including Sufis, Hindus, Jains, and Christians, would gather to discuss their beliefs. This was a physical manifestation of Akbar's Sulh-e-Kul ("universal peace") policy. Legend also holds that the renowned musician Tansen would perform on the central platform, his music echoing across the water. Historical accounts by Abul Fazl mention that Akbar once ordered the pool to be filled with gold, silver, and copper coins, which were then distributed...

Anoop Talab situated in the front of Khawabgah complex in Fatehpur Sikri. This square tank, made of red sand stone, has a beautiful platform enclosed balustrade ornate with 'jaalis', in its center. The raised seat in the middle of this platform presents the most romantic loveseat ever conceived inside a building. This platform is connected to the sides of the tank through four causeways. The tank was connected to the water work system to the north of the city to ensure the inflow of fresh water into it. It was linked to the Sukh Tal, outside the walls of the fort, to avoid overflowing of water. Scribes to Akbar's court have recorded that this pool was filled with gold, copper and silver coins. In his memoirs, Jehangir has mentioned that he distributed copper and silver coins worth one crore three lakh rupees, that were emptied out of the tank,...

Anoop Talab, also known as Anoop Talao, is a beautiful ornamental pool located in Fatehpur Sikri. The entrance is within the Panch mahal. It was built during the Mughal era by Emperor Akbar and served as a venue for musical performances and royal gatherings. The pool is surrounded by red sandstone architecture and features a square platform in the center, connected by walkways. This platform was famously used by legendary musicians like Tansen to perform for the emperor.

The pool is situated near the Panch Mahal and Akbar's private quarters in the Fatehpur Sikri complex. It is a significant example of Mughal architecture and reflects Akbar's love for art, music, and culture. The serene ambiance of Anoop Talab made it a perfect retreat for the emperor...