Discover The Taj Mahal Mausoleum: Inside History and Love Story

Overview of the The Taj Mahal Mausoleum

The Taj Mahal Mausoleum is also known as Rauza-i-Munauwara, Rauza-i-Muqqadas, and Rauza-i-Mutahhara, the mausoleum of the Taj Mahal is the centerpiece of the entire complex. Its architecture creates a striking visual effect, leading visitors through a carefully ordered progression towards the magnificent white marble structure. Positioned at the northern end of a vast, walled garden, the complex gently descends towards the Yamuna River.

Key Features of The Taj Mahal Mausoleum

The Taj Mahal is composed of two main components: the tomb and its surrounding garden, along with two subsidiary courtyards to the south.

The Tomb  Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Structure and Design

The tomb is the focal point of the complex, built from exquisite white marble. It stands on a square platform and features a symmetrical design that includes an iwan (an arch-shaped doorway) topped by a large dome. The overall form resembles a multi-chambered cube, creating an unequal octagon that measures about 180 feet on each long side.

Architectural Elements

• Pishtaqs: Each side has a large, vaulted archway framing the iwan, with two arched balconies on either side.
• Minarets: Four towering minarets stand at the corners of the platform.
• Cenotaphs: The main chamber houses the false sarcophagi of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan; their actual graves lie at a lower level.

The Tomb Chamber

The inner domed hall is the climax of the mausoleum, creating an ethereal atmosphere for visitors. This octagonal hall, measuring 24 feet on each side, features:

• Radiating Niches: Eight niches that allow light to filter into the space.
• Intricate Flooring: The floor is designed with geometric patterns, alternating between octagonal stars and cruciform shapes made from black and white marble.
• Decorative Vases: Luxurious vases filled with flowers, such as irises and tulips, line the hall, showcasing the Mughal aesthetic.

Suggested Read: Best time to visit the Taj Mahal: tips for tour of the taj mahal

Lower Tomb Chamber

Accessible via a stairway, the lower chamber (not open to visitors) features:

• Cenotaphs: Two cenotaphs similar to those above, but with simpler decorations.
• Qur’anic Inscriptions: The platform of Mumtaz Mahal’s cenotaph includes passages from the Qur’an, expressing themes of mercy and forgiveness.

The Screen and Cenotaphs

The intricate decoration surrounding the cenotaphs of Mumtaz and Shah Jahan is particularly striking. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Features of the Screen

• Mahjar-i Mushabbak: The perforated marble screen, created in 1643, features elegant jalis (lattice work) filled with intricate plant motifs.
• Ornamental Design: The screen is topped with decorative crenellations, enhancing the paradisiacal symbolism.

Cenotaphs

• Mumtaz Mahal’s Cenotaph: Located in the center of the hall, it features inlaid Qur’anic verses and floral designs, symbolizing her beauty and grace.
• Shah Jahan’s Cenotaph: Positioned to the west, it is larger and covered with floral motifs, reflecting themes of suffering and mortality.

The Ambulatory Rooms (Shish Mahal)

Surrounding the central tomb chamber are ambulatory rooms, often referred to as the Shish Mahal (Mirror Palace). These rooms, not accessible to the public, feature:

• Jalis with Glass Panes: This design allows for light and a view of the tomb while maintaining an atmosphere of reverence. Taj Mahal Mausoleum
• Cruciform and Octagonal Rooms: The layout consists of rooms that align with the cardinal and diagonal axes of the mausoleum. Taj Mahal Mausoleum 

Suggested Read:  Taj Mahal Hours: explore the visiting hours and timings

The Love Story Behind the Taj Mahal

In 1607, Shah Jahan, then known as Prince Khurram and the grandson of Akbar the Great, met Arjumand Banu Begum at a royal bazaar. She was just 15 years old, and the daughter of a future prime minister. Their connection was immediate, but they couldn’t marry right away; Prince Khurram was initially required to marry Kandahari Begum and later took a third wife.

On March 27, 1612, Prince Khurram married Arjumand, giving her the name Mumtaz Mahal, meaning “Chosen One of the Palace.” Mumtaz was beloved by the public for her beauty, intelligence, and kindness, often helping widows and orphans. Together, they had 14 children, though only seven survived past infancy. Tragically, Mumtaz Mahal died during the birth of their 14th child.

The Death of Mumtaz Mahal

In 1631, during a rebellion led by Khan Jahan Lodi, Shah Jahan was away with his military forces about 400 miles from Agra. Despite being heavily pregnant, Mumtaz accompanied him. On June 16, 1631, she gave birth to a healthy girl in a decorated tent. Sadly, she soon fell gravely ill.

When Shah Jahan learned of her condition, he rushed back. On June 17, just a day after the birth, Mumtaz Mahal died in his arms. She was buried near their encampment in Burbanpur. Overcome with grief, Shah Jahan reportedly cried for eight days, emerging with white hair and a changed appearance.

Bringing Mumtaz Mahal Home

In December 1631, after defeating Khan Jahan Lodi, Shah Jahan ordered Mumtaz Mahal’s remains to be exhumed and transported to Agra. The procession was grand, with thousands of soldiers and mourners accompanying her body over 435 miles (700 kilometers).

Upon reaching Agra on January 8, 1632, her remains were temporarily laid to rest on land donated by nobleman Raja Jai Singh, near the future site of the Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Plans for the Taj Mahal

In his profound grief, Shah Jahan envisioned an extravagant mausoleum dedicated to Mumtaz Mahal, unique for being the first large tomb built for a woman. Although no single architect is definitively credited, it is believed that Shah Jahan himself collaborated with top architects of the era to create a design that symbolized Heaven, Jannah, on Earth. He spared no expense in this monumental endeavor, aiming for the Taj Mahal to be the “Crown of the Region.”

Suggested Read: About Taj Mahal Agra Facts: You Probably Didn’t Know”

Taj Mahal: Architecture

The Taj Mahal is a stunning mausoleum complex located in Agra, in the western Uttar Pradesh state of northern India. Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1628 and 1658, this iconic structure honors his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died in childbirth in 1631. She was Shah Jahan’s closest companion since their marriage in 1612.

Taj Mahal Location and Nearby Attractions

The Taj Mahal is situated on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, in the eastern part of Agra. Just 1 mile (1.6 km) west lies the Agra Fort (also known as the Red Fort), another significant historical site.

Did You Know?

The Taj Mahal is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The other six are:

1. Christ the Redeemer (Brazil)  Taj Mahal Mausoleum
2. Chichen Itza (Mexico) Taj Mahal Mausoleum
3. Machu Picchu (Peru)
4. Roman Colosseum (Italy) Taj Mahal Mausoleum
5. Petra (Jordan) Taj Mahal Mausoleum
6. Great Wall of China (China) Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Architectural Beauty

Renowned for its harmonious proportions and intricate decorative elements, the Taj Mahal is considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, blending Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles. The complex features beautiful gardens and two twin mosques that are symmetrically placed on either side of the mausoleum.

UNESCO Heritage Site

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the Taj Mahal attracts millions of visitors each year, making it one of the most recognized and cherished monuments in the world.

Experience the beauty and history of the Taj Mahal, a true testament to love and architectural brilliance!

The Construction of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal complex was designed by several architects of the time, with Ustad Ahmad Lahori, an Indian of Persian descent, likely serving as the chief architect. The design includes five key elements:

• Main Gateway Taj Mahal Mausoleum
• Garden Taj Mahal Mausoleum
• Mosque Taj Mahal Mausoleum
• Jawāb (a building mirroring the mosque)
• Mausoleum (with its four minarets)

These components were planned as a cohesive unit, adhering to the principles of Mughal architecture, which prohibited any future modifications. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Construction Timeline

Building began around 1632 and involved over 20,000 workers from India, Persia, the Ottoman Empire, and Europe. The main mausoleum was completed by 1638-39, while the additional buildings were finished by 1643. Decorative work continued until at least 1647. The entire 42-acre (17-hectare) complex took 22 years to complete.

An Ambitious Vision

There is a tradition that Shah Jahan planned to construct another mausoleum made of black marble across the river for his own remains, connected to the Taj Mahal by a bridge. However, he was deposed by his son, Aurangzeb, in 1658 and spent the rest of his life imprisoned in Agra Fort.

The Taj Mahal stands not only as a magnificent architectural achievement but also as a poignant symbol of love and ambition. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Layout and Architecture of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is a masterpiece of architecture renowned for its stunning design and intricate details. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Mausoleum Features

The mausoleum sits on a wide plinth that rises 23 feet (7 meters) high. Constructed from white marble, it reflects various hues depending on the intensity of sunlight or moonlight. Key architectural elements include:

• Four Identical Facades: Each facade features a large central arch that reaches 108 feet (33 meters) at its highest point, with chamfered corners that include smaller arches.
• Central Dome: The majestic dome rises to a height of 240 feet (73 meters), topped with a finial, and is surrounded by four smaller domes.
• Acoustics: Inside the main dome, the acoustics are remarkable, allowing a single note from a flute to reverberate five times.

Interior Design

Inside, the mausoleum is organized around an octagonal marble chamber adorned with low-relief carvings and semiprecious stones (known as pietra dura). Here, the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan are enclosed by a delicately carved filigree marble screen. The actual sarcophagi lie beneath these false tombs, at garden level.

Minarets  Taj Mahal Mausoleum

At each corner of the square plinth stand elegant minarets, enhancing the grandeur of the complex. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Symmetrical Buildings

Flanking the mausoleum are two identical buildings: Taj Mahal Mausoleum

• Mosque: Located on the northeastern edge, it faces east.
• Jawāb: Positioned on the northwestern edge, it faces west, providing aesthetic balance to the complex.

Both structures are built of red Sikri sandstone and feature marble-necked domes and architraves, creating a beautiful contrast with the white marble of the mausoleum. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Building the Taj Mahal

During Shah Jahan’s reign, the Mughal Empire was among the richest in the world, providing the resources necessary to create the grand Taj Mahal. Although he desired an awe-inspiring monument, he also aimed for its rapid construction.

Workforce and Construction

To expedite the project, an estimated 20,000 workers were recruited and housed in a specially built town called Mumtazabad. This workforce included both skilled and unskilled craftsmen.

The construction began with the foundation, followed by the immense 624-foot-long plinth, which would serve as the base for the Taj Mahal and the two matching red sandstone buildings—the mosque and guest house.

The Taj Mahal itself was designed as an octagonal structure made of marble-covered brick. Builders created scaffolding for height, using an unusual choice of bricks that still intrigues historians today.

Marble Transportation

One of the most striking features of the Taj Mahal is its white marble, quarried from Makrana, located 200 miles away. Transporting the heavy marble involved around 1,000 elephants and numerous oxen.

A massive 10-mile-long earthen ramp facilitated the movement of these large marble pieces to higher levels of the structure. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

The Taj Mahal is topped with a grand double-shelled dome that rises 240 feet and is surrounded by four slender marble minarets at each corner of the second plinth. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

Calligraphy and Inlaid Flowers

While many images of the Taj Mahal focus solely on its impressive white façade, the monument boasts intricate details that enhance its beauty. Calligraphy from the Quran adorns the mosque, guest house, and main gate.

Shah Jahan commissioned master calligrapher Amanat Khan to inscribe these inlaid verses, which are executed in black marble and mimic the softness of handwriting.

Amanat Khan was uniquely allowed to sign his work, marking a significant honor. In total, 22 passages from the Quran were selected for this elegant feature. Taj Mahal Mausoleum

The inlaid floral designs throughout the complex are crafted using a technique called Parchin Kari. Highly skilled stone cutters carved intricate patterns into the white marble, inlaying them with precious and semi-precious stones to create elaborate vines and flowers.

The Taj Mahal incorporates 43 different types of stones sourced globally, including lapis lazuli from Sri Lanka, jade from China, malachite from Russia, and turquoise from Tibet.

The Garden

The garden surrounding the Taj Mahal plays a vital role in its design, embodying the Islamic vision of Paradise as a garden. Located south of the mausoleum, the garden features four quadrants divided by waterways that converge in a central pool. These “rivers” symbolize another aspect of Paradise in Islam.

The Yamuna River nourished these gardens through a sophisticated underground water system, although records detailing the specific plants used have not survived.

The Taj Mahal, with its stunning architecture, intricate details, and lush gardens, stands as a magnificent tribute to love and beauty, reflecting Shah Jahan’s vision of Heaven on Earth.

Shah Jahan’s Death

After the passing of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, Shah Jahan fell into a profound mourning that lasted two years. His grief left him vulnerable, allowing his fourth son, Aurangzeb, to eliminate his three elder brothers and usurp the throne. In 1658, after 30 years as emperor, Shah Jahan was imprisoned in the luxurious Red Fort in Agra.

Although he was not entirely deprived of comforts, he spent the last eight years of his life gazing longingly at the Taj Mahal from a window.

Shah Jahan passed away on January 22, 1666. Following his death, Aurangzeb had him buried alongside Mumtaz Mahal in the crypt beneath the Taj Mahal. Above the crypt, two cenotaphs (symbolic tombs) were placed; the central one honors Mumtaz Mahal, while Shah Jahan’s lies to the west. Surrounding these cenotaphs is a delicately carved marble screen, originally made of gold but replaced to deter thieves.

Destruction of the Taj Mahal

Despite Shah Jahan’s wealth during his reign, the Mughal Empire eventually declined, leading to neglect of the Taj Mahal. By the 1800s, British forces had overthrown the Mughals, and the Taj Mahal suffered significant vandalism.

British officials cut gemstones from its walls, stole silver fittings, and even attempted to sell its precious marble abroad. It was Lord Curzon, the British viceroy of India, who intervened to halt this exploitation and began restoration efforts.

The Taj Mahal Now

Today, the Taj Mahal attracts approximately 2.5 million visitors each year. Tourists can admire the changing hues of the white marble throughout the day and have the unique opportunity to experience its glow during full moon visits.

In 1983, UNESCO designated the Taj Mahal as a World Heritage Site, yet this status has not ensured its preservation. The monument now faces threats from nearby industrial pollution and the humidity created by the large number of visitors. Despite these challenges, the Taj Mahal remains a symbol of love and architectural beauty, continuing to captivate people from around the world.