Disclaimer: This blog is only an attempt to appreciate the art that is on display at the Taj Mahal through my camera lens without deviating into the history, present day politics, religious stories or any other controversies...so here goes:
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The Taj Mahal -- one of the seven wonders of the world, a UNESCO world heritage site, the winner of the New 7 wonders of the world, an expression of love by a king for his queen, the jewel of India! So much said about the Taj..and why not! This gigantic structure is regarded as one of the one of the most attention-grabbing man made monuments of the world.
If you expect to see this majestic monument as you pass the entry gates, you are in for a longer wait!
The entire Taj complex consists of five major constituents:
1)Darwaza (main gateway)
2) Bageecha (gardens)
3) Masjid (mosque)
4) Naqqar Khana (rest house)
5) Rauza (main mausoleum or tomb).
Have a look at the detailed map here:
The main gateway prevents anyone from getting even a glimpse of the tomb until one has crossed the doorway- the Darwaza. This doorway, in itself is beautifully decorated in symmetric, calligraphic verses from Holy Quran and a big dome covered central chamber.
As soon as you enter, you cannot help stop and admire this majestic beauty! :)
Pictures : Left : Taj during Sunset, Right: Taj during sunrise.
The Taj Mahal stands on an elevated square platform with four minarets on each corner of this square.
The view from the left and behind the Taj Mahal.
Now, the Taj has some wonderful art to admire : inlay work and carving.
Inlay art is a type of mosaic work where the soft marble is carved out and of multi-coloured precious stones are inlayed.
This work is found both on the interior and the exterior walls of the tomb.
The center structure in white marble is flanked by 2 structures (a mosque and a resthouse) on either side made of red sandstone giving a sense of symmetry and color contrast. The two red sandstone structures stunning in themselves are mirror images of each other. One cannot help walk around inside taking in the beauty and silence! :)
Overall, you feel floored after visiting the Taj Mahal, the monumental scale of effort involved in creating and beautifying this complex amazes you. A true masterpiece in itself, the Taj leaves an imprint in your mind forever! :)
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