|
Taj Mahal, beyond doubt, is the most precious architectural heritage of the wonder that was India. As Fergusson remarked, "it is the combination of so many beauties, and the perfect manner in which each is subordinated to the other that makes up a whole, which the word can not match and which never fails to impress even those who are most indifferent to the effects produced by architectural objects in general".
Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan in memory of his consort Mumtaz Mahal at Agra (UP), is perhaps most enduring symbol of human love. Arguably, it is still India's most popular tourist attraction. Infact, for many outsiders visiting India, it is the most irresistible spot. This perfectly symmetrical edifice is set amidst landscaped gardens on the banks of Yamuna river. Built under the supervision of persian architect Ustad Isa, the building in white marble has the verses of the holy Quran inscribed on it, with the gate being crowned by 22 small doves. Constructed between 1631 (when Mumtaz Mahal died) and 1653, Shah Jahan had called experts from Europe, too namely Austin of Bordeaux and Veroneo of Venice. The two had a hand in the Taj Mahal's decoration.
The Taj Mahal has been constructed on a 313 square feet marble platform, enclosed within a high boundary wall with broad octagonal pavilions at the corners the most elegant dome has a diameter of 60 feet and a height of 80 feet. Pietra dura, semi precious stones inlaid into the marble in beautiful patterns, is perhaps at its best here. The jewel inlaid cenotaph of the queen lies within the dome. Set against the plain across the river Yamuna, that works its magic of colours that, through their reflection, change the view of the Taj Mahal, the tomb especially appreciated for its perfect proportions and exquisite workmanship. As they say about the Mughals in general, it has been "designed like giants and finished like jewellers".
Though, later critics saw a sentimental strain in the construction, built avowedly on a concept which makes death an almost nostalgic aspiration to the onlooker, the Taj Mahal is all its timeless beauty is still the inspiration to poets and painters, writers and photographers. So much so, that it offers a challenge to the poetic imagination, as does the best in the so-called Indo-Islamic 'baroque' style.
 Although the Taj Mahal, also noted for its features like finely cut marble screens and use of gems, is amazingly graceful from almost any angle, its close-up is really astounding. Hence, travelmasti suggests, whenever you are in Agra, rise at dawn and allow yourself some time to visit the Taj Mahal's chameleon - like guises in different light. If Agra, whose origins are recounted in the epic Mahabharata as 'Agrabana', is paradise, then the Taj is arguably its heart core! .
This masterpiece was of recent recognized as one of the seven wonders of the world, beauty finds its way to the Taj Mahal, so what are you waiting for…..??? Housing the grave of Mumtaz Mahal the favorite queen of Shah Jahan, this monument was built in her memory. The tale of love does not end here, the heart-broken Shahjahan was subsequently buried and re-united finally with his beloved Mumtaz. Though one cannot go to see the actual tombs but making a wish by throwing a penny inside is considered to be a lucky charm. Enter the duct of love through the main gateway. You should notice the calligraphy done on the walls. They are verses from Quran along with the multiple use of precious and semi precious stones. Many painters, photographers and officers have given their testimonials on Taj but the experience that can be enjoyed only when a personal look of Taj is taken is completely different. You will be pleased to see the fusion of Persian, Asian and Islamic influence in the architecture and did you notice that the entire monument is build in perfect symmetry, with the exception of the tomb of Shah Jahan that was added later.
This mausoleum is an architectural splendor whose wonder is not confined to the monument itself but the attractions that are located within the premises. From the back of the Taj look across the river to see another red stone minaret lying incomplete. This was the foundation of 'Black Taj Mahal' that Shah Jahan was building for himself, but due to atrocity of his own son he could not complete it. Take a stroll around the mosque that was then used for purpose of prayer and the gardens surrounding the monuments will give a soothing feeling to the eyes. To see the Taj Mahal during full moon night is like a dream come true. The white marble seems to sparkle against the moonlight and one does not realise when the night passes and sun comes up to covert it into golden splendor. Though a visit to Taj is pleasure at any point, but during the Taj Mahotsava in February, your presence becomes a must. For ten days there is an enthusiastic display of Agra art, craft, culture, dance and music. The best part of this festival is the food festival where you will indulge in savoring some of the oldest and most typical delicacies of the state. Folk dance and music are another attractions that call for the tourist to visit Taj during this grand festival.
The augustness of Taj Mahal is not reliant on any one's testimony. Not visiting Taj is a loss of a lifetime. In fact it is obligatory that your visit to India begin with the Taj. You should see Taj Mahal that is 'One-of-a-Kind' in the world. No other monument in the world even comes close to what Taj Mahal has to offer. Take a day tour of Taj and stretch your journey for the exploration of Agra Fort along with other mausoleums that will complete your Agra visit.…
|