Heritage Stripe Domed

Introduction

One of the unique masterpieces built around the world is Taj Mahal. This sculpture is located in ‘Agra’ near Delhi. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

The Taj Mahal (also “the Taj”) is one of the finest examples of Mughal Architecture; it is a unique combination of style that combines elements from Persian, Indian, and Islamic Architecture. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and is ranked number ’1′in their rankings.

History

Taj Mahal was built in around 1653 AD. The people appointed to build and guide the architecture were as follows .Under the supervision of these architects a thousands of workers worked day and night to build this unique structure.

1) Abdul-Karim Ma’mur Khan

2) Makramat Khan

3) Ustad Ahmad Lahuri

Ustad Ahmad Lahuri was appointed the principal designer for this project.

Shah Jahan built Taj Mahal in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. She always accompanied Shah Jahan. She participated in the campaigns to win the southern states of India in 1631. She was pregnant at that time. She gave birth to her fourteenth children. She died in Burhanpur during childbirth. She was 39 years old.

[Shah Jahan was very disappointed and upset because of the death of his beloved wife Mumtaz.He imprisoned himself in a room to remember her. He decided to build a monument in the memory of his Mumtaz

He selected a garden for this monument on the banks of river Yamuna. He wanted to build something in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz.

The construction of the monument began in 1633. This construction was so big that around 20,000 workers were engaged to build it. Shah Jahan brought skilled workers from all over India and from some other countries.

The main dome of Taj Mahal measures about 110 yards in circumference and is about 107 yards above the ground. Turkish designer specially built the Taj Mahal base. It was called as Mahajar-e-Mushababbak. Shah Jahan spent nearly 50 lakhs on those days for the monument.

How to reach Taj Mahal

BY AIR:-

Indian Airlines (Domestic Airline in India) runs daily flights from Delhi to Agra. Kheria Airport (Airport of Agra) is about 6 km from the Agra city centre and is easily accessible by taxis and auto-rickshaws at nominal rates.

BY RAIL / TRAIN:-

Agra is connected by excellent train services to Delhi such as The Shatabdi Express (2 hrs), Taj Express (2.5 hrs), Intercity Express (3 hrs).

Railway Stations:

Agra Cantt Rly Stn

Raja-ki-Mundi Rly Stn

Agra Fort Rly Stn

BY ROAD:-

Express bus services (a/c and non-a/c) are available from Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Gwalior, and Jhansi. For those driving to Agra, the distances are:

Mathura (Pilgrimage Destination) – 58 kms.

Bharatpur (Bird Sanctuary) – 60 kms.

Gwalior (Historical Destination) – 118 kms

Delhi (Capital City of India) – 203 kms

Jaipur (Cultural & Historical Destination) – 236 kms.

Khajuraho (Historical Destination) – 393 kms.

Summary

Taj Mahal is one of the great places to visit. It is not only structure but it is symbol of love and devotion for each other.

Author – Anil Purandare

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