84. Sati Burj
Sati Burj
It is the oldest, though restored, standing relic of mediaeval period Mathura. Located near Asi-kunda Ghat of Yamuna, this is a slender, quadrangular tower of red sandstone commemorating the
self-immolation of a faithful wife. She is said to have been the queen of Raja
Biharimal of Amber. She was the mother of the famous Raja Bhagwan Das, by whom
the monument was erected in the year 1570 AD. It has, as it now stands, a total
height of 55 feet and is in four storeys; the lowest forms a solid basement,
the second and third are lighted by square windows and are supplied with an
internal staircase. The tower is raised on a high plinth, which probably was
designed so as to catch the breeze and escape the dust and noise of the
surroundings below. Its location in the midst of densely populated locality has
made it more obscure. Previously it had a distinct presence due to its elevated
position and open skyline from Yamuna side. This Rajput style tower is believed
to be having a greater height; but all the upper part was destroyed by Aurangzeb. The plaster dome surmounting the building was apparently added about the
beginning of the 19th century. At the time when it was built, it may be
presumed that the city of Mathura occupied its old position in the
neighbourhood of the Katra (Krishna Janmabhoomi), and that the river-bank was
used as the ordinary place for the cremation of the dead. For quite some time
it has faded into oblivion and neglect. It has become a favourite hangout for
local cardplayers and chillum smokers...
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