Big Five – FeedPeople search their entire lives in hopes of finding their perfect match. One person who happened to come across their match was an emperor of India, Shah Jahan. He found the love of his life in his wife Mumta Mahal. While she was the emperor’s third wife, she was the only wife of his heart. Mumta Mahal became his favorite wife, traveled with him and was the mother to most of his children. She was known throughout India as having a very kind heart and a wonderful disposition. When she died, the emperor was stricken with grief and mourned her loss for a year. In her honor, he decided to build the ultimate tribute of love, the Taj Mahal.
For twenty two years, workers labored until the finest example of Mughal architecture in the world was erected. The Taj Mahal sits on a 186 by 186 foot base of marble and the largest dome is 213 feet high. The building itself is actually smaller than it looks. Due to its unique design, the Taj Mahal looks much larger from a distance that it actually is.
The most intriguing detail of the Taj Mahal is the amazing detail that has been put into its design. As one of the first buildings of Mughal architecture to feature exterior decorations, it has inlays, carvings and unique paint designs. There is also calligraphy on the building which praises the emperor’s deceased wife and wishes her to rest in peace. There is as much detail inside the tomb as there is outside with the exception of the crypt where the historic couple rest. Decoration of the graves is not permitted in Muslim tradition.
A visit to the Taj Mahal is filled with experiences. Not only is it an opportunity to see some of the most impressive architecture found anywhere in the world, but it is also a very spiritual experience. You can almost feel the love that the emperor had for his wife when visiting. Its incredible what the power of love can move people to do. This is one destination that is a must see for anyone who can appreciate a historic love story.
