Construction of Taj Mahal was done during 1632 AD-1643 AD and surrounding decoration was done after five years. The architecture of the
Taj Mahal is a blend of Mughal and Persian architecture styles. Its architecture takes inspiration from some prior monuments such as Humayun’s Tomb
and It Mad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb. Unlike the other emperors before him, Shah Jahan promoted white marble instead of red sandstone. In the main chamber
there are resembling graves of Shah Jahan and Mumtaj Mahal while the real graves are under the level. There is a large dome in the center of the
complex. The height of the tomb is nearly 35 meters and because of its shape it is also known as onion dome. The top of the dome has a carved
lotus design. The overall structure of the complex is a square. The structure of Taj is completely symmetrical and has four minarets; one at
its each corner. The minarets have a height of about 40 meters. The exterior decorations were done using paint and carvings.
Calligraphy of Persian poem and Arabic Ayaat is done on exterior structure. The inner chamber of the Taj Mahal, shaped in an octagon,
has entry from all the faces, but the door facing towards south is used. The inner walls have height of 25 meters. In the chamber,
the resembling grave of Mumtaj is in the exact central location. The resembling grave of Shah Jahan makes an asymmetry in the Taj Mahal.
It is adjacent to Mumtaj’s grave. Carved flowers on marble, incised painting, marble jail lattice, plant motifs and reflective tiles
were used in the decoration of the Taj. The garden is designed in Charbagh style of Mughal architecture. It is a design inspired by
Persian gardens. The Charbagh style gardens were introduced in India by Babur. In the center of the garden, there is a reflecting pool
in north- south axis. It shows reflected image of Taj. There are many trees and fountains in the garden. Taj Mahal was the hardship of
the 20,000 workers, craftsmen and artisans for 22 years that resulted in a precious monument of craftsmanship.
The replica of Taj Mahal in Mohabbat-e-Taj show has weight of 800 kilograms and it took seven years hard work of 28 artisans and craftsmen.
The show, having duration of 90 minutes, is presented by 60 talented performers. The show includes songs, dances and poetries representing the
life style of the Mughal era. The show is organized in Hindi and English with headphones attached to seats. In case you have difficulty with
the language, you have options of translation in 9 different languages like French, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese etc.