The white
marble mausoleum is believed by many to
be the best representation of Muslim art
in India. The Taj Mahal was built around
1630, an order from Muslim emperor Shah
Jahan, to honor the memory of his beloved
late wife.
Construction began in 1632
and took about 15 years to complete. The
opulent, domed mausoleum, which stands in
formal walled gardens, is generally regarded
as finest example of Mughal art and architecture.
It includes four minarets, each more than
13 stories tall.
The Taj' had its
origins, so it is said, with one
of the most romantic, but tragic, love stories
of all times. It is surprising that the
largely Hindu population perpetuates the
romantic view (our experience indicated
quite strongly that they do) since the hero
and heroine are Muslims, the Mughal emperor
Shah Jahan and his favourite wife Mumtaz
Mahal. The Mughals (or Mongols) were historically
cruel, ruthless rulers who, amongst many
other radical activities, discriminated
against and alienated the Hindus [did someone
say that about the British too?]. Shah Jahan
means King of the world and Mumtaz means
the chosen one.
The Begining of
Love Story
It was at the Meena Bazar that Shehzada
Khurram first laid eyes on Arjuman Banu.
When their eyes met it was love at first
sight.After five years, on an auspicious
day they were married and from that moment
began the great epic of love.Shah Jahan
titled her "Mumtaz Mahal", "The
chosen one of the palace". A rare found
combination of beauty and brain.
The Art
The Taj is the most beautiful
monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim
rulers of India.It is built entirely of
white marble. Its stunning architectural
beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly
at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow
in the light of the full moon.
Elements
of Decoration: Calligraphy, Light,
Geometry, Floral patterns, Figures and animals,
Water
Related Books
The Taj Mahal - by David Carroll
et al
Taj Mahal: Passion and Genius at the Heart
of NEW BOOK
Taj Mahal Ben Harper 1996 Acoustic Musician
magazine
“If people are truly,
madly, deeply in love with each other, they
will find a way.”
(anonymous)
“The most important
thing in life is to learn how to give out
love, and to let it come in.”(anonymous)
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