A Tale of Eternal Love
There are few monuments in the world as majestic and awe-inspiring as the Taj Mahal.
Meaning ‘Crown of Palaces,’ the breathtaking monument is visited by thousands every year and is considered one of the most recognised structures in the world. A much-loved Touch of Spirit Tours destination, the Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983 and remains a great source of pride for Indian people.
Behind the glistening white marble and manicured gardens lies a tragic story of love, grief and absolute devotion….
If you are new to this story, make sure you have a box of tissues ready!
Born in 1592, Prince Khurram (later known as Shah Jahan) was the son of the Emperor of India. At the age of 14, Shah Jahan was strolling the streets of the Meena Bazaar, followed closely by his string of admirers. It only took one quick glance, and Shah Jahan become smitten. The girl, Arjumand Banu Begum, was 15, beautiful and after five years would become Shah Jahan’s wife.
In the year 1628, Shah Jahan became Emperor and he bestowed his wife with the title Mumtaz Mahal, meaning ‘Jewel of the Palace’. Now any romantic types reading may want to skip over this next bit, but yes, Shah Jahan did have other wives. Nevertheless, his love for Mumtaz Mahal was truly revered. The pair remained virtually inseparable and their love was admired by all those around them.
Tragedy struck in 1631. Whilst giving birth to their 14th child (an amazing story in itself!), Mumtaz Mahal become very ill and could not be saved. On her death bed, Shah Jahan promised her that he would honour her life with the most beautiful mausoleum that has ever existed.
The promise was kept, and soon after Mumtaz Mahal’s death, work began on the Taj Mahal. Legend says that Shah Jahan was so devastated by the death of his wife that he ordered his palace to go into mourning for two years.
After 22 years, and the efforts of over 20,000 labourers, the Taj Mahal was completed – solidifying the Emperor’s endless love for his wife. When Shah Jahan died in 1666, he was laid to rest in a tomb beside Mumtaz Mahal.
An amazing story indeed.
If you want to experience the Taj Mahal for yourself, come along with us as we take you on one of our adventures of northern India.
Some of our wonderful tours that visit the Taj Mahal are Living the Ayurvedic Way , Beauty Unwound Textile tour and Northern Exposure. To find out more call 1300 722 932 or email us info@touchofspirittours.com.au
See you next week!
PS. We are now taking bookings for our full range of exciting, upcoming tours. To view our itineraries and brochures click here.
