Hyderabad man claims rights on Taj Mahal, calls himself descendant of Mughals

A man hailing from Hyderabad has captured public attention with claims of being a direct descendant of the erstwhile Mughal emperors, asserting his right to the iconic Taj Mahal. 

Donning regal Mughal attire, Yakub Habeebuddin Tucy, who styles himself 'Prince', maintains he is the sixth-generation heir of Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last sovereign of the Mughal dynasty.

Mughal Descent Claim

Yakub lives in the Sridattanagar, Kanchanbagh neighbourhood, devotedly tending to the resting place of Aurangzeb. He has pursued legal avenues, presenting a DNA report to a Hyderabad court, which he contends validates his genealogy claims. He has documented his heritage journey across social media platforms, introducing himself as the 'caretaker of Mughal Wakf Properties in India'.

The Royal Mughal couple #Prince & #Princess Yakub Habeebuddin Tucy & Humaira Fatima pic.twitter.com/OsR3WmPF3H

— HrH Prince Yakub Habeebuddin Tucy (@Princeofmoghals) September 17, 2019

Taj Mahal Ownership Contention

Tucy has publicly claimed possession of the Taj Mahal, the architectural marvel commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of Empress Mumtaz Mahal. Furthermore, he has laid claim to the contentious Ayodhya site, known for its complex historical assertions by both Hindus and Muslims.

In what could be seen as a gesture of goodwill, Tucy has supported the establishment of the Ram Temple at the disputed site by contributing a golden brick — a move signalling his intent for communal harmony.

Social Engagement and Legacy

Tucy, who is often seen in the company of notable figures, has been photographed with former Presidents Pranab Mukherjee and Ram Nath Kovind. His wife, Humaira Fatima, is also described as having a lineage tied to Mughal royalty.

Emphasising his ancestral legacy, Tucy refers to Bahadur Shah Zafar as a 'true freedom fighter', acknowledging his resistance to British imperialism.