Mumtaz Mahal, the inspiration behind the Taj Mahal, was a remarkable figure in Mughal history. Born Arjumand Banu Begum, she was a gifted and intelligent woman, admired for her poetry and straightforward nature. She married Prince Khurram, who later became Shah Jahan, and earned the title "Mumtaz Mahal." She tragically passed away in 1631 giving birth to her fourteenth child.