Demolition of Taj Mahal Myth

The myth surrounding the demolition of the Taj Mahal has persisted since the British rule in India, fueling much speculation and intrigue. According to the legend, it was said that the British Governor-General of India, Lord William Bentinck, had devised a plan to demolish the Taj Mahal. The intention behind this drastic measure was to extract the precious marble used in its construction and auction it off. Stories even suggest that a demolition crew was assembled, ready to carry out the task of dismantling one of the world’s most iconic monuments.

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However, the plan was purportedly abandoned midway because Bentinck couldn't make the scheme financially viable. The logistics and costs associated with demolishing such a massive structure and then transporting and selling the marble likely proved too complex and expensive. This led to the plan being shelved, leaving the Taj Mahal standing as a testament to India's rich history and architectural heritage. Despite these claims, the idea that the British seriously considered demolishing the Taj Mahal has always sparked debates among historians and scholars.

Adding another layer to the story, John Rosselli, the biographer of Lord Bentinck, argued that this demolition tale was a fabrication. According to Rosselli, Bentinck did indeed sell discarded marble from Agra Fort, which may have given rise to the myth about the Taj Mahal. The confusion between the sale of Agra Fort’s marble and the alleged plan to dismantle the Taj Mahal likely contributed to the enduring nature of this legend. Rosselli’s account casts doubt on the validity of the demolition story, suggesting it was perhaps an exaggeration or misinterpretation of Bentinck’s actions.

Despite these explanations, the question "Did the British plan to demolish the Taj Mahal?" remains an open topic of debate. While Rosselli's account offers a plausible clarification, the absence of concrete evidence either proving or disproving the demolition plan keeps the myth alive. This unresolved question continues to captivate those interested in the colonial history of India and the stories surrounding one of its most famous landmarks. Until more definitive evidence comes to light, the legend of the Taj Mahal's near-demolition remains a fascinating and controversial chapter in its storied past.

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