The Taj Mahal, often celebrated as a symbol of eternal love, has been the subject of various myths and historical debates. Let's delve into the facts surrounding its construction and the narratives that have emerged over time.

🏰 Was the Taj Mahal Built by Shah Jahan?

Yes, the Taj Mahal was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631 to honor his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. The construction began in 1632, with the main mausoleum completed by 1643 and the entire complex finished by 1653 .

🧱 The Myth of the 'Raj Mahal'

Some narratives suggest that the Taj Mahal was originally a structure named 'Raj Mahal' built during the reign of Emperor Babur, Shah Jahan's grandfather. However, historical records do not support this claim. The 'Padshahnama' (Shah Jahan's court chronicles) and 'Shahjahanama' (a biography by Inayat Khan) describe the Taj Mahal's construction starting in 1632, with no mention of a pre-existing 'Raj Mahal' .

🛠️ Architectural Mastery

The Taj Mahal is renowned for its architectural brilliance, combining elements from Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles. The chief architect was Ustad Ahmad Lahori, who also contributed to the design of the Red Fort in Delhi . The monument's intricate designs were crafted by over 20,000 artisans and craftsmen from India, Persia, Europe, and the Ottoman Empire .

🏛️ The 'Black Taj' Theory

A popular myth suggests that Shah Jahan intended to build a second mausoleum made of black marble, known as the 'Black Taj,' across the Yamuna River. This theory was based on writings by European traveler Jean-Baptiste Tavernier. However, archaeological studies have debunked this claim. Excavations in the Mehtab Bagh area revealed that the so-called blackened marble remnants were actually discolored white stones, not black marble .

🕰️ Historical Narratives and Political Influence

Over time, alternative narratives about the Taj Mahal's origin have emerged, often influenced by political agendas. For instance, some have claimed that the Taj Mahal was originally a Hindu temple. However, these claims have been dismissed by historians and courts. In 2000, India's Supreme Court rejected a petition asserting that the Taj Mahal was a Hindu temple, and in 2017, the Archaeological Survey of India declared that there was no evidence to suggest the monument ever housed a temple .

🧭 Conclusion

The Taj Mahal stands as a testament to Mughal architectural excellence and a symbol of enduring love. While myths and alternative narratives have surfaced over time, historical evidence supports the established account of its construction by Shah Jahan in memory of Mumtaz Mahal. It's essential to rely on credible historical sources to understand the true story behind this magnificent monument.