I travelled far in search of this magnificent symbol of love, and when I stood before it, it was a breathtaking moment!

The Taj Mahal is one of the world’s most iconic and celebrated structures, a breathtaking monument of love. Located in Agra, India, this grand mausoleum was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth in 1631. The Taj Mahal’s white marble structure is a marvel of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Ottoman Turkish, and Indian architectural styles. Its symmetrical gardens, reflecting pools, and elaborate carvings make it a symbol of eternal love and an architectural masterpiece that took over 20 years to complete.

Shah Jahan’s vision for the Taj Mahal was to create a structure as timeless and beautiful as his love for Mumtaz. Built entirely from white marble, with semi-precious stones inlaid in intricate patterns, the Taj Mahal reflects the splendor of Mughal craftsmanship. It is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site and remains a symbol of love and an architectural icon. The Taj Mahal’s grandeur not only celebrates Mumtaz Mahal but also serves as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievement of the Mughal empire.

While the Taj Mahal stands as a beautiful reality, the Black Taj Mahal exists primarily in legend and speculation. According to myth, Shah Jahan intended to build a second mausoleum made of black marble, which would be located across the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, in symmetry with the white structure. This dark counterpart would have served as his own tomb, designed to match the beauty of the Taj Mahal while reflecting the emperor’s own vision of love and death. The Black Taj is said to have been made of black marble, creating a striking contrast with the Taj Mahal’s white marble beauty.

The story of the Black Taj was first introduced by Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, a French traveller who visited Agra in 1665. Tavernier claimed that Shah Jahan had begun construction of the Black Taj but was unable to finish it due to being deposed by his son, Aurangzeb. Despite this romantic tale, historians and archaeologists remain divided about the truth of the story. Modern research has not found any conclusive evidence of the Black Taj’s existence, leading many to believe the story may be a myth or misinterpretation of Shah Jahan’s original plans.

Some also suggest that the Black Taj is a symbol of Shah Jahan’s desire to be reunited with his beloved Mumtaz Mahal in the afterlife, creating an eternal bond across the river. While there’s no physical evidence to support the creation of the Black Taj, the myth continues to captivate people’s imaginations, adding an air of mystery to the already legendary Taj Mahal.

In summary, while the Taj Mahal is a tangible and breathtaking reality, the Black Taj remains a tale of love, loss, and mystery—a symbol of the profound emotional and artistic ambition of a king who sought to immortalise his love in both life and death.

Many thanks to our amazing guide Dushyant Singh, Namaste.