Taj Mahal

Why is in news? SC rejects plea seeking probe into Taj Mahal’s history

The Taj Mahal (Agra) is a mausoleum of white marble built by the Mughal emperor, Shahjahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

It stands on the banks of the river Yamuna.

The construction of the Taj Mahal was completed within a period of 17 years from 1631 to 1648 AD.

The Taj Mahal was declared a centrally protected monument of national importance in December 1920.

Considered as one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it was inscribed on the UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 1983.

It is famous for its unique layout, perfection in symmetry and inlay work.

It is one of the most outstanding examples of Mughal architecture, which combined Indian, Persian, and Islamic influences.

The Taj Mahal, which is made of gleaming white marble that appears to change colour depending on the light, is at its heart.

The tomb is the centrepiece of a 17-hectare (42-acre) complex, which includes a mosque and a guest house, and is set in formal gardens bounded on three sides by a crenellated wall.

The construction project employed some 20,000 artisans under the guidance of a board of architects led by the court architect to the emperor, Ustad Ahmad Lahauri.