<DIV><p>Shah Jahan ruled the Mughal Empire at its high water mark, his name translating literally from the Persian as “King of the World.” After ruthlessly suppressing his rivals, he went on to promote Mughal artistic and architectural achievements to the zenith of their creativity. He is responsible not only for the Taj Mahal, the tomb to his beloved wife Mumtaz, but also for the Pearl Mosque, the Red Fort, Jama Masid in Delhi, the Shalimar Gardens of Lahore, and the priceless Peacock Throne.</p><p><b>Fergus Nicoll</b> has been a current affairs journalist for the BBC since 1988. His work has enabled him to travel widely throughout the Middle East and Africa.</p></DIV>