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The Taj Mahal gates being renovated

     Agra: Restoration work of the gates leading to the Taj Mahal.has begun. The centuries-old white marble monument built here by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan in the17th century is a symbol of his enduring love for his wife Mumtaz. The Archaeological Survey of India is carrying out the refurbishment and restoration of the complex.

    Currently they are carrying out the strengthening and renovation of the gates on three sides, including the main gate of the monument. "The main gate and the southern gate are being renovated and the construction work is on. The work should complete by March this year. We are also replacing the decaying stones on gates as part of the restoration," said D. Dayalan, chief of the Archaeological Survey of India, Agra Division. The Taj Mahal was built by an army of 20,000 stonemasons, gem cutters, marble fitters and labourers who toiled for 22 years. The present renovation is being undertaken by around 150 artisans. The Taj stands on a marble platform surrounded by gardens. White minarets grace each corner and two smaller red sandstone buildings balance the postcard-perfect image on the banks of the Yamuna River. The monument has a rich lore, including the story that the bereaved emperor who commissioned it was deposed and imprisoned by his son Aurangzeb in the Agra Fort and spent his final days gazing wistfully at his creation.
-Jan 2,  2007

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