Taj Mahal, built in the 17th century is a marble-master piece, described as one of the finest structures in the world. It was designated as one of the seven wonders of the world in 2007. Taj was also listed in the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan, as a memorial for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Hence the master piece stands as a symbol of love in the modern days. Situated on the banks of the river Yamuna, at Agra, Uttar pradesh, Taj Mahal is one of the most visited tourist sites in India.
Taj Mahal’s architecture is inspired from the Mughal Architecture, which in turn is a mixture of Indian, Persion and Muslim arts. Ustad Ahmed Lahauri, was the chief architect of the Taj Mahal. More than 2,000 workers were employed to construct Taj Mahal and it took more than 22 years to complete the master piece. It was believed that Shah Jahan thought of building a black tomb for himself, but he passed away before he could construct it.
The great emperor Shah Jahan, was a person who had a keen passion for literature and beautiful Architecture. The famous Peacock throne, Red fort are a few master pieces built during his ruin which describes his passion for architecture. The emperor’s concern for Architecture shows up in the finest carvings of the Taj Mahal. Inside the Taj Mahal, lies the tombs of the emperor and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The interiors of the Taj, could even mesmerise a zero art-knowledge person such was the beauty of Taj.
Taj Mahal also faces a few threats with the time. Being a World famous building, tourists from all over the world visits the Taj Mahal to enjoy the location. However, as per the conservationists Taj Mahal has been subjected to immense pressure with many people walking inside the beautiful monument. Conversationalist Mr. Ashok says that number of people allowed inside must be limited to decrease the pressure applied on the age old monument which stands still.
Taj Mahal being the main attraction for India, terrorists eye over it for a rapid attack. Hence, the monument is guarded by the secure wings. The Supreme Court of India has created a zone of 10 Kilometres around Taj Mahal, ordering that no polluting emissions are allowed in the zone- area to safeguard the interests of the Mahal.
“Beauty is more felt than defined”. The TAJ MAHAL, not only shows off its beautiful architecture but also makes us to think of and feel the history.. of love between the great emperor and his wife. It makes us to feel the essence of love and takes us into the 17th century to see and feel with our imaginative eyes….the construction of the Taj!