Facts and History of The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, a symbol of eternal love, is one of the most iconic monuments in the world. Located in Agra, India, it attracts millions of visitors every year with its breathtaking beauty and intriguing history. Built during the Mughal era, the Taj Mahal has a story that is as fascinating as the structure itself. This article takes a closer look at the history, facts, and legends surrounding this world wonder.

The Story Behind the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Mumtaz Mahal, originally named Arjumand Banu Begum, was the emperor’s favorite wife and his trusted companion. They were married in 1612, and Mumtaz became a vital part of Shah Jahan’s personal and political life.

Tragically, Mumtaz Mahal died in 1631 while giving birth to their 14th child. Overcome with grief, Shah Jahan vowed to build a monument in her memory that would be unparalleled in beauty and grandeur. Thus, the construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632, serving as a symbol of Shah Jahan’s undying love for Mumtaz.

Architectural Marvel of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, a unique blend of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. It is primarily made of white marble, brought from the quarries of Makrana, Rajasthan. In addition to the marble, the monument is adorned with semi-precious stones, such as jade, crystal, turquoise, and amethyst, embedded in intricate floral patterns.

The mausoleum stands on a square platform and is crowned with a large central dome, which is one of the most distinctive features of the structure. The dome, often called an “onion dome” due to its shape, rises about 35 meters (115 feet) high. Four minarets, each standing 40 meters tall, frame the mausoleum. These towers are slightly tilted outward to protect the main structure in case of an earthquake, showcasing the advanced engineering knowledge of the time.

The beauty of the Taj Mahal is not just limited to the marble structure itself. The complex includes lush gardens, fountains, and walkways that enhance the overall aesthetics of the site. The garden, designed in the Persian Charbagh style, symbolizes paradise and provides a serene environment for visitors.

Facts About the Taj Mahal

1. A Labor of Love: The construction of the Taj Mahal took approximately 22 years to complete. Work began in 1632 and concluded in 1653. It is said that over 20,000 laborers, artisans, and craftsmen from across India and other parts of Asia worked on the monument.
2. Shah Jahan’s Tomb: Although the Taj Mahal was built for Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan was eventually buried beside her after his death in 1666. Both tombs lie in the inner chamber of the mausoleum.
3. Color-Changing Effect: One of the most fascinating aspects of the Taj Mahal is its ability to change color depending on the time of day. The white marble reflects hues of pinkish-red during sunrise, dazzling white at noon, and a soft golden color under the moonlight.
4. No Machinery Used: Despite its grandeur and intricate details, the Taj Mahal was built entirely by hand, using traditional tools and techniques. Workers used elephants to transport materials, and it is believed that around 1,000 elephants were employed during the construction.
5. Symmetry and Symbolism: The Taj Mahal is an example of perfect symmetry. Everything from the domes to the gardens is meticulously planned and aligned. Interestingly, the only exception to this symmetry is Shah Jahan’s tomb, which was added later and disrupts the balance slightly, as Mumtaz’s tomb is centrally placed.
6. UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1983, the Taj Mahal was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its significance as one of the greatest architectural achievements in human history. It is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, solidifying its status as a global treasure.

Legends and Myths of the Taj Mahal

The history of the Taj Mahal is rich with stories and legends that have fascinated people for centuries. One of the most popular myths is the story of Shah Jahan’s “Black Taj Mahal.” According to legend, Shah Jahan planned to build a second Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River, made entirely of black marble. This second monument was intended to serve as his own tomb, directly opposite the white Taj Mahal. However, historians have found no concrete evidence to support this claim.

Another widely circulated tale is that Shah Jahan ordered the hands of the workers and craftsmen to be cut off after the Taj Mahal’s completion to prevent them from recreating such a masterpiece elsewhere. While this story adds a dramatic touch to the monument’s history, there is no historical proof to support it.

Decline and Restoration

After Shah Jahan’s death, the Mughal Empire began to decline, and the Taj Mahal suffered from neglect. During the 18th century, invading armies looted some of the precious stones and jewels from the monument. The British also attempted to remove some of the materials during their rule, but Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, ordered restoration work in the early 1900s.

Today, the Taj Mahal is well-preserved, though it continues to face challenges from pollution and environmental factors. The Indian government has implemented several measures to protect the monument, including restricting industrial activities in the surrounding area and introducing clean-air initiatives.

The Taj Mahal Today

The Taj Mahal remains a powerful symbol of love and beauty, attracting millions of tourists from all corners of the globe. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world, with people flocking to witness its beauty and learn about its history.

Visitors to the Taj Mahal are often left in awe of its grandeur, with the monument’s stunning design, intricate detailing, and serene surroundings leaving a lasting impression. For those who experience the Taj Mahal in person, it is not just a piece of history but a work of art that transcends time.