Secrets of TajMahal, The Tajmahal one of the world’s most iconic monuments, has puzzled humankind for centuries not only because of its beauty but also for the mysterious and legendary stories surrounding it. Here are some intriguing “secrets” or lesser-known facts about the Taj Mahal:
1. Myth of Secret Rooms (secrets of Tajmahal)
Subterranean portions hidden below the Taj Mahal consist of sealed rooms or underground chambers, inaccessible to the public. Some believe they were actually built for structural stability while others think they actually house hidden treasures or Mughal relics.
2. Optical Illusions(secrets of Tajmahal)
The Taj Mahal was intended to create optical effects. For instance, the minarets are tilted to one side to provide a cushioning effect for the central structure in case of earthquakes. Also, the farther you go from the monument, the more enormous it appears, and from close, it almost shrinks.
3. Change in Color(secrets of Tajmahal)
The Taj Mahal seems to take on different hues throughout the day according to the lighting. In the morning it glows pinkish, dazzling white in the afternoon, and golden under the moonlight. It owes this to the reflective property of its marble which is white.
4. A Black TajMahal? (secrets of Tajmahal)
It is said Emperor Shah Jahan had planned a similar mausoleum of black marble opposite the Yamuna River for himself. It is believed that the project was abandoned after his imprisonment by his son, Aurangzeb. According to recent research, the ruins near the monument were probably part of a garden or water reservoir.
5. Structural Secrets (secrets of Tajmahal)
The massive dome of the Taj Mahal is sustained by a wooden support structure that remains intact since it is moistened by the Yamuna River. In case the river dries up, it may compromise the stability of the design.
6. Calligraphy by One Artist (secrets of Tajmahal )
A beautiful Persian calligrapher, Amanat Khan, has done the calligraphy work of Taj Mahal, especially the verses from the Quran, and it is one of the most perfect examples of Islamic calligraphy.
7. Symmetry with a twist (secrets of Tajmahal)
The Taj Mahal is famous for its perfectly symmetrical architecture, depicting perfection. However, Shah Jahan’s tombsite lies asymmetrically besides Mumtaz Mahal’s tombsite, thereby upsetting the symmetry of the tombsites, probably because he was never actually intended to be buried beside his wife.
8. Labour and Skilfulness (secrets of Tajmahal)
It is said that it took around 22 years to complete and involved over 20,000 artisans, laborers, and architects. Materials were sourced from around India and Asia, including white marble from Rajasthan and gemstones from distant lands.
9. Myths of Mutilated Workers(secrets of Tajmahal)
It is also a legend that is most commonly told that the hands or thumbs of artisans were chopped off by order of Shah Jahan to prevent them from recreating the monument again. However, historical records of such are available.
10. Threats (secrets of Tajmahal)
pollution, environmental factors, and the debate over its cultural history. However, efforts are underway for it to remain just as pristine in its form. These mysteries and legends add much more glory to the Taj Mahal, ensuring it stands as the wonder of the world and a symbol of eternal love.