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NDTV
21-05-2025
- NDTV
6 Surprising Facts About The Taj Mahal That Most People Miss
Love is one of those feelings that is tough to show through actions, but some people have gone to wild lengths for it, like building an actual monument. The Taj Mahal is a perfect example. Often called India's eternal symbol of love, this stunning structure was commissioned in 1631 by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, after his wife Mumtaz Mahal passed away while giving birth to their 13th child. Every year, millions of travellers and history fans come to Agra just to see this white marble wonder, famous for its romantic backstory, perfect symmetry, and incredible design. But how much do you really know about it? Beneath all the love stories, there are layers of mind-blowing facts and clever design elements that most people miss. If you are someone who is obsessed with the Taj Mahal's history and architecture, these lesser-known details will change how you look at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here Are 6 Facts About The Taj Mahal You Probably Did Not Know: 1. The Taj Mahal Looks Different Depending On The Time Of Day One of the most fascinating things about the Taj Mahal is how it shifts colours. At sunrise, it has a pinkish-orange tone. By noon, under direct sunlight, it appears bright white. During sunset, it reflects golden shades, and under a full moon, it takes on a soft bluish glow. This is not a trick of the eyes. It is because of the reflective quality of Makrana marble used in its construction. Photographers, historians, and even locals say this colour play makes the Taj feel alive. It is one of the reasons why it remains such a popular monument in India and a major part of Indian tourism. 2. The Minarets Were Built With Earthquakes In Mind If you look closely at the four minarets that stand around the main tomb, you will notice that they are slightly tilted outward. This was not a mistake. It was part of the original plan. In case of an earthquake, the minarets were built to fall away from the main structure so that the tomb stays safe. This level of planning shows how smart and intentional Mughal architecture really was. It is small details like these that make the Taj Mahal architecture so ahead of its time. 3. It Is More Than Just One Monument The Taj Mahal is not just the white marble building everyone knows. The whole area covers over 42 acres. Inside the complex, there is a mosque, a guest house known as the jawab, water channels, a large reflecting pool, Persian-style gardens called Charbagh, and even a small museum. Everything here was designed to match and balance each other. If you are a fan of Mughal design or the history of the Taj Mahal, walking through the entire complex gives you a better understanding of how much thought went into every part. Photo Credit: Pexels 4. A British Officer Almost Sold It For Marble In the 1830s, Lord William Bentinck, who was the Governor-General of India back then, seriously considered breaking down the Taj Mahal and selling the marble. His goal was to earn money for the British East India Company. Reports say the plan was dropped when it became clear that the cost of removing and moving the marble was too high. Plus, no one really wanted to buy it. It is wild to think that this global icon and one of the Seven Wonders of the World nearly became scrap material for buildings. 5. The Calligraphy Tricks Your Eyes The beautiful calligraphy on the Taj Mahal's walls is not just for decoration. It has been carefully designed to follow a visual trick. The script, made of Quranic verses, becomes larger as it goes up the arches. From below, it looks like all the letters are the same size. This smart use of size and proportion makes the writing easy to read and look balanced. It is a good example of the kind of optical illusions and clever design used in Islamic and Mughal architecture. 6. Over 20,000 Artisans Helped Build It Many people know that it took 22 years to build the Taj Mahal. But not everyone knows just how many hands were involved. Over 20,000 skilled workers came from different parts of India, Central Asia, and Iran. There were calligraphers, masons, designers, stone carvers, and inlay artists, all working on different parts of the monument. More than 1,000 elephants were used to carry marble, stones, and timber to the site. When people talk about the Taj Mahal being more than a symbol of love, they are right. It is a massive team effort and one of the most impressive pieces of architecture in the world. Built in the name of love in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, the Taj Mahal is more than just a pretty building. It pulls millions of people from around the globe every year, and for good reason. As one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a top UNESCO site in India, it keeps holding onto its place in history and in the hearts of those who visit.
India.com
21-05-2025
- India.com
Discover 9 Iconic Historical Monuments In India That Reflect The Rich Cultural And Architectural Heritage Of The Country
photoDetails english 2903943 Updated:May 21, 2025, 10:44 AM IST 1 / 11 India, a nation rich in history and culture, boasts some of the most renowned monuments globally. Each structure, sculpture, and stone resonates with stories of leaders, saints, and warriors, conveying narratives of bravery, faith, artistry, and endurance. These monuments serve as more than just architectural wonders; they are storytellers of India's remarkable history. Below are nine iconic monuments that embody the essence and legacy of India. Taj Mahal, Agra 2 / 11 Often regarded as India's most iconic monument, the Taj Mahal represents everlasting love. Constructed by Emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this mausoleum made of white marble merges Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural influences. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it remains a poetic homage to Mughal artistry and romantic dedication. Qutub Minar, Delhi 3 / 11 Reaching a height of 73 meters, the Qutub Minar is among the tallest brick minarets globally. Erected in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, it symbolizes the onset of Muslim governance in India. The detailed carvings and Quranic verses etched on its surface showcase the craftsmanship of the Delhi Sultanate. Red Fort, Delhi 4 / 11 Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1648, the Red Fort served as the primary residence for the Mughal emperors. Its imposing red sandstone walls have been witnesses to the empire's splendor and the inception of India's fight for independence. Annually on Independence Day, the Prime Minister raises the national flag here—serving as a reminder of India's journey from colonization to freedom. Hampi, Karnataka 5 / 11 Formerly the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi now exists as a remarkable historical site adorned with ancient temples, market roads, and royal palaces. The Virupaksha Temple, stone chariots, and massive statues tell the story of a flourishing civilization known for its affluence, art, and scholarship in the 14th century. Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh 6 / 11 Constructed during the reign of Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, the Sanchi Stupa ranks among the oldest stone edifices in India. It serves as a significant emblem of early Buddhist architecture and thought. The intricately designed gateways (toranas) depict stories from Buddha's life, providing profound insights into India's spiritual heritage. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Maharashtra 7 / 11 These rock-cut cave complexes offer a wealth of Indian artistic and religious heritage. The Ajanta Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BCE, feature beautiful frescoes and sculptures devoted to Buddhism. The Ellora Caves, constructed between the 6th and 10th centuries, represent a blend of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism—demonstrating the spiritual diversity of India. Konark Sun Temple, Odisha 8 / 11 An engineering marvel resembling a massive chariot, the Konark Sun Temple was built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I. Dedicated to the Sun God, it showcases the pinnacle of Odishan temple architecture. The intricate carvings and symbolic design highlight India's scientific and artistic achievements. Gateway of India, Mumbai 9 / 11 Built during British rule in 1924, the Gateway of India was erected to honor the visit of King George V and Queen Mary. It later emerged as a symbolic point of entry and exit for British authority in India, especially as the last British troops departed through it in 1948, signifying the conclusion of colonial rule. Mehrangarh Fort, Rajasthan 10 / 11 Perched on a rocky hill in Jodhpur, the Mehrangarh Fort is one of the largest forts in India. With its thick walls, ornate palaces, and expansive courtyards, it tells stories of Rajput bravery and regal splendor. Today, it stands as a museum and a testament to Rajasthan's warrior culture and architectural grandeur. 11 / 11 These monuments are not just relics of stone and mortar; they are time capsules that preserve India's legacy. They remind us of our diverse past, from royal dynasties and spiritual awakenings to colonial struggles and cultural syntheses. Exploring them is like walking through the pages of a living history book—one that continues to inspire generations.
The National
18-04-2025
- The National
Anantara Marbella Resort review: How to live like a royal in Spain's golf valley
It's not the Taj Mahal, but the palatial Anantara Marbella Resort, in the province of Malaga in southern Spain, has an equally touching love story. While Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned his 17th century architectural masterpiece in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Marbella resort was built in the 1990s by local millionaire and hotelier Ricardo Arranz as an homage to his wife's royal lineage. Arranz married Alicia Padierna de Villapadierna Klein, who is of Spanish nobility, in 1992. Together, the couple decided to build an opulent getaway in the mountain village of Benahavis near the resort town of Marbella, known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses. Completed in 2003, Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavis Marbella Resort, as it is officially known, is now one of the most luxurious destinations in the Costa del Sol, Spain's southern Mediterranean coast. Meant to resemble a Tuscan palace, its Italian inspirations are everywhere – from the perfectly-coned cypress trees and many sculptures that dot the property, to the 400-seater Roman amphitheatre and immaculate gardens spread across its expansive grounds. Located in the so-called 'golf valley' of Marbella, the resort is flanked by three 18-hole golf courses, with most of its 125 pet-friendly rooms and suites offering sweeping views of perfectly manicured greens. It has hosted celebrities and statesmen, from Spain's former prime ministers Felipe Gonzalez and Jose Maria Aznar to Jennifer Lopez and Michelle Obama, who was a friend of Alicia Padierna, who died in 2018 after a battle with cancer. One of the nine private villas is named Villa Obama, after the former US first lady. The National checked in to find out if this royal getaway lives up to its title. Our arrival at Anantara Marbella Resort is preceded by scenic 50-minute drive from Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, with winding roads that dip and twist as we enter Benahavis. We are greeted by the resort's concierge, who quickly sorts out our luggage, leaving us free to admire the striking lobby. At the centre of the space is a massive multi-tiered flower arrangement that leads your eyes up the resort's four floors to the glass roof. Natural light and the smell of the blooms fill the lobby, and beyond the display are twin staircases that sweep up to the first floor. Check-in is fuss-free and we're done in minutes before being guided to a tiny lift to the room. Surrounded by rolling hills, Anantara Marbella Resort is isolated enough from the bustle of touristy Marbella, but is only a 20-minute drive from Puerto Banus, a luxury marina dotted with high-end shopping malls, restaurants and bars. The resort's inland location means it's not attached to a beach, but a free, 10-minute shuttle will take guests to the By the Sea Beach Club. Guests can take part in many activities around Marbella, from flamenco dancing to wine-tasting, but a trip to the historic cliffside city of Ronda is a must. The birthplace of Abbas Ibn Firnas, the Muslim poet, physician and inventor, it also a city where Ernest Hemingway spent many summers and wrote. The ashes of Orson Welles, considered one of the greatest filmmakers of all time, are also buried there. Anantara Marbella Resort has links with La Almazara, an organic olive oil farm and factory in Ronda, which offers daily experiential tours for an additional cost. Guests can also visit Reservatauro Ronda, a 200-hectare breeding farm for bulls and Andalusian horses set in a Unesco Biosphere Reserve, where biodiversity is maintained and human activity must be sustainable. Owned by former champion bullfighter Rafael Tejada, the reserve gives visitors a chance to get close to the animals and learn about them in a natural environment. I am checked into a junior suite with a 'green view', a 42-square metre room that encompasses a small living area with plush furnishing, Persian carpets and chandeliers, as well as a desk and a king-size bed. The en suite marble-heavy bathroom features a giant tub as the centrepiece with an enclosed rain shower area in one corner and a door leading to the toilet in the other. The suite is stocked with all the amenities you'd need, including a coffee machine and tea accessories. Both the suite and attached bathroom have huge windows that open on to one of the lush golf courses and the beautiful mountains beyond. As a luxury brand, it's hard to fault the service at Anantara, whether it's in Sri Lanka or Amsterdam. In Marbella too, there's plenty of Spanish warmth to bask in, with staff quick on their feet and attentive, especially during the busy breakfast service. Marbella is a golfer's paradise and there are plenty of options, whether you're a pro or an amateur. During our stay, the resort was filled with lines of golf carts zipping around each day. Although not part of Anantara, the Villa Padierna Racquet Club is within the property, with 15 padel courts, two tennis courts and two croquet courts, only 50 metres from the beach. The 2,000-square metre Anantara Spa features Roman baths, a hammam and saunas, as well as landscaped gardens to wind down in. Here, you can enjoy treatments and fitness activities, get nutrition advice and take part in aqua therapies. There's also a temperature-controlled indoor pool with massage jets, as well as a plunge pool and an aromatic relaxation area. The Anantara Marbella Resort is sometimes described as a 'museum hotel' because it houses more than 1,200 paintings and sculptures. The private collection of Arranz and his late wife includes European portraits, mainly from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, the majority by Spanish artists. Besides the beach club, there are eight restaurants to choose from at Anantara Marbella Resort. La Loggia, where we ate our breakfasts, serves Malagan fare for lunch and Italian for dinner. La Veranda is a more formal dining spot, featuring classic local dishes with modern twists dreamt up by the resort's head chef, Jose Carlos Delgado Serrano. As a nod to Marbella's Arab lineage, and for Anantara's many Middle Eastern guests, there's Ola Beirut, which serves Lebanese cuisine but with a Spanish touch. For pre-dinner catch-ups or afternoon tea, there's the sophisticated Eddy's Bar. Hole 55 is perfect for breakfast or snacks and desserts, La Pergola in the pool garden for light lunches and Irene's Health Kitchen within the spa for healthy fare and detox drinks. There's also an outpost of 99 Sushi Bar & Restaurant. The Japanese fusion eaterie's Abu Dhabi branch earned a Michelin star in 2023. Designer Dining by Anantara, a bespoke dining experience at all their resorts around the world, is available upon request. For our visit, Anantara Marbella Resort put together a dining experience inspired by Pablo Picasso's favourite dishes. It is set in one of the resort's private dining rooms, decorated in shades of blue, from flowers to tableware – the Malaga-born artist's favourite colour. We are served ajoblanco, a chilled white soup made with almonds, and atun encebollado, or tuna cooked in an onion stew. Picasso preferred a specific part of the fish close to the neck, the chef tells us, as he regales us with stories of the artist's taste in food and wine. Between courses, a flamenco dancer entertains us. The weather in Marbella, even during the so-called off season in February, is perfect for outdoor activities. Golfers are spoilt for choice within the resort. That proves a sour point for me when I am woken up at 7am on the morning after we land by a lawnmower preparing the grass for a group of golfers. Having slept with my windows open (always a joy after living in the Gulf for years) the hum of the mower and chatter of the golfers only a few metres away ensures it is time to get up. Anantara properties are known for their spas, and the one at Anantara Marbella Resort is among the biggest I've seen. Make sure you make time to check out all their offerings, even if you're not getting a treatment. Puerto Banus is excellent for shopping, and if you're a fan of Spanish fashion and lifestyle brand Zara, it's much cheaper here than anywhere else. Pricing is dependent on the dates and the season, with deluxe rooms starting at approximately €395 (Dh1,594) per night. Check-in is from 3pm and check-out is at noon. This review was conducted at the invitation of the resort and reflects standards during this time. Services may change in the future
