Question:

In the painting “Marriage procession of Dara Shikoh” from your syllabus. Who is depicted with a Halo around their head?

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In Mughal art, the size and presence of the Halo were strictly governed by courtly hierarchy: the reigning Emperor had the largest and most radiant halo to assert supreme authority.
Updated On: Jun 18, 2026
  • Shah Jahan
  • Aurangzeb
  • Haji Madni
  • The Bride
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation



Step 1: Identifying the Artwork and Artist:

The grand miniature painting Marriage Procession of Dara Shikoh belongs to the Oudh (Provincial Mughal) School of painting, created around c. 1740-50 AD by the artist Haji Madni.

Step 2: Compositional Analysis of Royal Figures:

The painting showcases the highly detailed marriage procession of Prince Dara Shikoh (eldest son of Emperor Shah Jahan) riding on a white horse wearing a sehra (bridal veil). Directly behind the prince, riding another magnificent horse, is his father, Emperor Shah Jahan.

Step 3: The Symbolism of the Halo:

In Mughal court paintings, especially from the era of Jahangir and Shah Jahan onwards, the Emperor was always painted with a luminous gold circular halo (prabhamandala) around his head. This visual device was borrowed from European Christian art to symbolize the emperor's divine right to rule, royal majesty, and semi-divine aura. Even though it is Dara Shikoh's wedding, only Emperor Shah Jahan is depicted with a divine halo. Thus, option (A) is correct.
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