Regarded by many as a “jewel of India”, Taj Mahal is not only a captivating masterpiece of Islamic artistry, but an eternal symbol of love. Located in Agra, India, the Taj Mahal has inspired poets, writers, and travelers for centuries, and will undoubtedly continue to do so for many years to come. Built from 1632-1648 CE, the Taj Mahal is a shining testament to the strong bond which existed between the Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved queen, Mumtaz Mahal. In this article, we will explore the history of the majestic Taj Mahal and discover why it has remained one of India’s most beloved landmarks for centuries.
1. India’s Storied Symbol of Love: The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal, an immense mausoleum of dazzling white marble located in Agra, India, is considered a symbol of eternal love. Commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in honor of his deceased wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is the most recognizable testimonial of Indo-Islamic architecture.
The tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal are situated in the upper chamber of the Taj Mahal’s main dome, highly decorated in Islamic script and pink lotus motifs. The dome rises to more than 77 yards and is capped with a decorative finial bedecked with a crescent symbolizing the dominion of Allah. Other details of the Taj Mahal, such as the four minarets extending outward from each corner, are adorned with intricate stained calligraphy, constructed using a Persian version of Arabic script.
The Taj Mahal’s facade reflects the steps taken to accurately adhere to Islamic design principles, incorporating geometric shapes and repeating patterns that follow the arrangement of a symmetrical composition. But more than just a grand reminder of what true love can accomplish, the Taj Mahal remains one of the most striking and popular attractions in India.
Moreover, the Edens of the Taj Mahal gardens are an important aspect of the monument’s beauty. An expansive Persian garden, encompassing almost seventeen hectares, runs in front of the Taj Mahal in a unified landscape. The garden features large raised pathways, bubbling fountains, reflecting pools, and numerous trees, including a variety of cascading cedar and cypress.
2. The Romantic History of the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is arguably the best known mausoleum of all times. It stands as a shining example of the power of love, as well as the skill of the Mughal architecture. For centuries the Taj Mahal has been an inspiration to poets and many others. Many tall tales and romantic stories surround the creation and history of the Taj.
Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, ruler during the golden age of the Mughal Empire, was a renowned warrior. He resisted all impediments to realise his dream of a magnificent memorial for his wife and queen, Mumtaz Mahal. After her death in 1631, he wanted to pay tribute to her memory by having the best mausoleum ever built.
This is believed to have taken more than 10,000 workers and artisans close to 20 years to build and complete. The Taj stands on 43 acre marble platform, encompassing four cusped arches, a broad walkway, an ornamental tank, a main chamber, and garden. Construction materials and inlay stones were taken from Burma, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Hyderabad, China and other places. Craftsmen were brought from various parts of the country as well as from Central Asia, Persia, Uzbekistan, France and Italy.
The enchanting structure continues stand in testament to love centuries after its completion. This has allowed millions of people to marvel at the unique artistry and grandeur of this timeless monument. Visitors are filled with admiration and awe as they stand before it; a true source of inspiration about the power of love and devotion.
3. An Architectural Marvel: Examining the Taj Mahal’s Incredible Design
The Taj Mahal is known to be one of the most iconic monuments in the world. This majestic structure designed by Emperor Shah Jahan is a marvel of architectural brilliance. Drawing upon the best of Mughal, Persian, and Indian architecture, the Taj Mahal stands as a testament to its incredible craftsmanship.
The base of the complex is a plinth, made from red and white sandstone and decorated with carved reliefs and majestic inlaid tiles. This is encircled by a white marble balcony with four slender minarets placed at each corner. These towers are joined to the building by four hidden passageways, enhancing the symmetry of the structure.
At the center lies the inner chamber, made from entirely white marble. The chamber consists of five arches, topped by a central bulbous dome. The chamber is surrounded by an ornamental wall filled with designs, Arabic calligraphy, and intricate fretwork.
The Taj Mahal’s exterior is finished with a series of external walls. These walls are also decorated with intricate fretwork and inlaid tiles. The final finish is a brilliant white marble, which is achieved through careful polishing and etching.
Overall, the Taj Mahal reminds us of the glories of Mughal architecture. Its intricate design and grandeur is a fitting testament to its creator’s vision.
- The complex is based around a plinth made from red and white sandstone.
- The inner chamber consists of 5 arches, topped by a dome.
- The outer walls are lined with intricately decorated fretwork and inlaid tiles.
- The entire structure is finished with a brilliant white marble.
4. Exploring the Meaning Behind the Maharaja and Mumtaz Mahal’s Lasting Love
The story behind the timeless love between Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal has become an enduring symbol of devotion throughout the ages. The two were married in the early 1600s and their love lasted for more than two decades, culminating in the Taj Mahal, a grand and beautiful monument to their love.
- Symbol of Devotion and Eternity – The Taj Mahal is often viewed as a representation of Shah Jahan’s everlasting love and loyalty for Mumtaz Mahal. As the story goes, Shah Jahan made this grand structure to honor her memory after she passed away.
- Lasting Love – According to the legend, the Emperor and his beloved were deeply in love and devoted to each other. His only wish was to remain with her in death, just as they had been in life.
At the time of their marriage, Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal represented a powerful and influential royal family. This is why the maharaja and mumtaz mahal’s love story has become so renowned, as it serves as an example of an enduring and passionate relationship. It is said that even after her death, Shah Jahan remained determined to honor her memory with a monument that could stand the test of time.
The Maharaja and Mumtaz Mahal’s love is truly a unique example of the power of emotion to transcend the ages. To this day, it stands as an immortal reminder of the eternal bond that lovers can share.
5. A Visit to the Taj Mahal: An Unforgettable Experience
The one place I could have spent an eternity visiting was the exquisite Taj Mahal. It was truly an unforgettable experience for me, unforgettable for all the right reasons. Let me walk you through my stay there to give you a better idea.
- The Arrival: We arrived at the Taj Mahal just before sunset and I was already intimidated by its sheer vastness. Its customary red sandstone walls surrounded the entire area giving it a unique charm, one that had me mesmerized.
- The Magnificence: As I stepped up to the stairs of the Taj Mahal, I admired its beauty. Its imposing white marble walls were adorned with intricate designs and inlays and that was an amazing sight to behold. The reflection from the lake made the entire area look magical and left me in awe.
We then took a guided tour of the Taj Mahal which included a stopover at the historical structures within the premises. I felt mesmerized by the brilliant architecture of the place. Those structures contained secrets that marveled me and I wanted to stay and explore more about them.
Overall, it was an unforgettable experience for me visiting the Taj Mahal. It was a mesmerizing sight that made me awe and I will remember it forever.
The Taj Mahal is an timeless expression of love that will continue to enrapture the world for years to come. This immense mausoleum serves as an iconic testament to the beauty and grandeur of India and will remain one of its most treasured tourist destinations. Its romantic allure and extraordinary architecture will ensure it a place in history, and ensures that the Taj Mahal will remain India’s eternal symbol of love.
