Noorjahan was a brave beauty. She was born Meherunnisa, to Mirza Giyas Beg who went on to become the Diwan of Kabul. Meherunnisa was well educated and excelled in painting. She married Sher Afgan, a royal. However, he was killed, and Meherunnisa was appointed lady in waiting at Akbar’s court.
Jahangir, the son of Akbar fell in love with Meherunnisa and married her in 1611. Jahangir led a life of ease and luxury. Meherunnisa’s influence grew by the day. Jahangir bestowed on her the title Noor Mahal, meaning light of the palace. Later he gave her the title Noorjahan, or light of the world. She would sit in the balcony of her palace and the nobles would listen to her orders. Coins were minted in her name. Noorjahan was a highly cultured and kind hearted lady. She was buried beside her husband in a mausoleum erected by her.