Theories About The Construction of Taj Mahal

Introduction

There are several different theories surrounding the construction of the Taj Mahal, as well as common myths associated with it. One of these theories suggests that Shah Jahan instructed the artisans to cut off their hands to ensure that no similar monument would ever be designed and constructed again. However, there is no substantial evidence to support this story (Smith, 2003). Another myth claims that Shah Jahan intended to create another mausoleum for himself, a stunning black mausoleum on the other side of the Yamuna River, which would be linked to the Taj Mahal by a bridge. This story remains indeterminate, and it cannot be stated with certainty what Shah Jahan's actual intentions were. Nevertheless, the presence of black marble inside the garden raises questions about this possibility (Koch, 2006).

Theories About The Construction of Taj Mahal

Another claim posits that the Taj Mahal was originally a Hindu temple named a Shiva Temple and that it predates Emperor Shah Jahan's rule by 300 years. However, according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), there is no evidence to support the existence of a Hindu temple at the site where the mausoleum now stands (ASI, 2010). Additionally, some controversies suggest that while the Taj Mahal is often considered a perfect marvel, it has its flaws. For instance, the central lobby ceiling has a tiny low space. It was assumed that one of the craftsmen deliberately left this opening to undermine Shah Jahan's vision of perfection, as they were aware of his rumored plans to amputate all artisans after the construction was completed (Nath, 1985).

The Enigma of Taj Mahal's Color and Mumtaz Mahal's Burial

In many ways, the Taj Mahal is also a wonder due to its changing colors. It is a well-liked belief that the color of the Taj Mahal shifts depending on the time of day and the sky's condition. In the early morning hours, it appears pinkish, while in the evening, it takes on a milky white hue. During nighttime, the mausoleum emits a light blue glow, enhancing its ethereal beauty (Begley & Desai, 1989). Another intriguing idea suggests that Mumtaz Mahal's body was buried in two separate locations before finally being placed inside the Taj Mahal. Initially, she was buried in Burhanpur immediately after her death, and later, her body was moved to Agra, where it remained buried for 12 years within the mausoleum complex (Lal, 1992).

Conclusion

Despite these misconceptions about the Taj Mahal, its construction remains a contentious issue. Many find it difficult to comprehend the rationale behind building such an extravagant mausoleum. The Taj Mahal was, without doubt, the most successful project of that period, reflecting the Mughal Empire's prosperity. Nonetheless, there is considerable debate about whether Shah Jahan's empire had the financial resources to undertake such a mega project. By the end of Shah Jahan's rule, the Mughal treasury had become significantly depleted due to the construction of the mausoleum and other costly projects (Gascoigne, 1971).

References

• Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). (2010). Report on the Taj Mahal.
• Begley, W. E., & Desai, Z. A. (1989). Taj Mahal: The Illumined Tomb. University of Washington Press.
• Gascoigne, B. (1971). The Great Moghuls. HarperCollins.
• Koch, E. (2006). The Complete Taj Mahal: And the Riverfront Gardens of Agra. Thames & Hudson.
• Lal, K. S. (1992). The Mughal Harem. Aditya Prakashan.
• Nath, R. (1985). History of Mughal Architecture. Abhinav Publications.
• Smith, V. A. (2003). Akbar the Great Mogul. Asian Educational Services.