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Feb 2005
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Taj festival bounces back after fire mishap

Girls working on a craft for the Taj Mahotsav in Agra

    Agra: Celebrations for the 350th anniversary of the Taj Mahal, the world's most famous monument of love, are back to normal, two days after a fire near the white marblemausoleum, spread panic and scared away tourists. Hundreds thronged the moonlit fair on Wednesday as the colourfully decked up shops displayed the city's famous marble artefacts and glittering glass jewellery. The state administration worked round-the-clock getting the venue, located about half a mile near the magnificent structure back in shape. "Two days back the incident happened and we were greatly disappointed that the celebrations will be stopped and that we will miss out on the fair. But the administration has been very quick in restoring all facilities and we are extremely happy that we have not been denied of this wonderful festival," said Rachna, a tourist. Earlier, on Monday, a massive blaze had swept through nearly 35 of the shops, sending the thousands who had crammed into the space scampering for cover. Though there was no loss of life, goods worth millions were gutted with some tourist getting hurt in the ensuing mayhem. "The fair is back to normal today, so good it feels, as though the incident never happened. Yes, definitely some of the artisans have been hit but things have bounced back and the festival is in full swing and I think it will continue to be so," said Hari Singh, another tourist. The yearlong birthday celebrations of the Taj are drawing millions of visitors to Agra.
- Feb 24, 2005

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