The grandson of Akbar who built the Taj Mahal was Shah Jahan. He was the fifth Mughal emperor of India and ruled from 1628 until 1658. Shah Jahan was a patron of the arts and is known for his love of architecture and beauty.
Best way to travel from Delhi to AgraHe commissioned the construction of the Taj Mahal in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth in 1631. The Taj Mahal is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and is a testament to the enduring power of love and devotion.
What was the inspiration behind the design of the Taj Mahal?
The design of the Taj Mahal is believed to have been inspired by a combination of Islamic, Persian, and Indian architectural styles, as well as the personal tastes and preferences of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who commissioned the monument.
Shah Jahan was a patron of the arts and is known for his love of beauty and elegance. He is said to have been deeply influenced by the Islamic architectural tradition, which emphasizes symmetry, geometric shapes, and intricate patterns. This is reflected in the symmetrical design of the Taj Mahal, which features identical elements repeated on either side of the central axis.
The Persian influence on the Taj Mahal is evident in the intricate calligraphy that adorns the walls of the monument. The calligraphy is taken from the Quran and praises the virtues of love and devotion, which were important themes in Persian literature and poetry.
Indian architectural styles are also evident in the design of the Taj Mahal, particularly in the use of white marble and the use of water as a key element in the garden complex surrounding the monument. The use of white marble is a traditional Indian architectural feature, and the water channels and pools in the garden complex are a nod to the importance of water in Indian culture and religion.
Overall, the design of the Taj Mahal is a unique blend of Islamic, Persian, and Indian architectural styles and reflects the personal tastes and preferences of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The result is a stunning work of art that has captivated visitors for centuries and continues to inspire awe and admiration today.
