Latest news with #ShahJahan
India.com
6 hours ago
- General
- India.com
Where are the 22 locked rooms of the Taj Mahal? What's hidden behind these doors and why are they closed?
The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World is admired for its beauty and architecture. But apart from its stunning white marble and the famous love story, it also holds secrets that continue to puzzle people. One of the biggest mysteries is about the 22 locked rooms hidden inside its basement and these rooms are not for the general public as they are not allowed to enter. These rooms are located beneath the main structure of the Taj Mahal. There are 4 big and 18 small rooms, all sealed off for decades. They lie below the famous Chameli floor, and access to them has been strictly restricted. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has kept them locked, and not much is officially shared about what lies inside, which only adds to the curiosity. No one knows the exact reason why these doors are locked, but authorities say it is for protection and safety of the monument. Some people believe that these rooms might hold royal treasures or important historical secrets. In the past, these doors had red stone frames, which have now been sealed with bricks, making the mystery even deeper. Interestingly, all four minarets of the Taj Mahal are connected to this underground area. These towers support the main dome, but the paths leading through them have also been closed, likely to prevent structural damage. Over the years, this has led to many questions and theories. There are also stories that Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal's real graves may be inside these locked rooms. Some believe that the graves seen by visitors are only symbolic, and the actual tombs could be hidden in the basement. However, there is no solid proof, as these rooms have never been opened for public or researchers. Some reports say that these rooms were sealed during British rule, possibly when the British were searching for treasure. Later, they were left closed in the name of preservation. Since then, the doors have remained shut, and the mystery has grown. The public is strictly not allowed near these doors. There are guards and cameras installed for security. Officials say that opening these rooms might weaken the foundation of the Taj Mahal, which is why they prefer to keep them sealed. Still, people continue to wonder what really lies behind them. Many people believe the rooms could contain items made of gold or silver, or ancient royal documents. Others think that Mumtaz Mahal's real resting place and royal belongings might be hidden there. But without opening them, these ideas remain only guesses and historians and scientists have not confirmed any of them. The ASI is responsible for taking care of these rooms. They have explained that the structure is sensitive and could be harmed if disturbed. Pollution and changing weather also pose risks, so keeping them locked is seen as a way to protect the monument. Whether these rooms will ever be opened is still unknown. Experts are considering using technology to scan the inside without causing damage. If one day they are opened, it could change the way we understand the Taj Mahal's history. Until then, the mystery of the 22 locked rooms will continue to fascinate generations.
South Wales Argus
4 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
We tried Pink Elephant Indian restaurant in Merthyr Tydfil
The Pink Elephant on High Street in Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil, opened on Tuesday, May 13 as the sister restaurant to Three Elephants, which is based in Newport and opened in September 2024. The restaurant is under the ownership of Shah Jahan and the staff are trained under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Aitkur Kahman, who is hoping to pass on some of his 20 years of experience in the food industry, including serving King Charles during his time living in London. (Image: NQ) A spokesperson for the team at Pink Elephant said: "We are pleased to be one of the best Indian restaurants in Merthyr with incredible food, polite and friendly staff, and great value for money. "We highly suggest sampling our Speciality dishes and know you will enjoy every taste. When you order your Curry, Balti, Biryani or Tandoori from us, you'll see why we have been named as one of the best places to experience Indian cuisine in the Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil area." (Image: NQ) We were invited down to try out some dishes on opening night, and one of the first things that struck us on arrival was how busy the restaurant was for a middle of the week opening. It was clear that word of the quality and talent of the chefs at Pink Elephant had got around quickly and it was delightful to see how many people were turning out to support a new business. (Image: Supplied) The staff were incredibly friendly, and welcoming throughout our visit, ensuring we had everything we would need while maintaining a wonderfully calm and relaxing atmosphere. We ordered meat samosas to start, which were beautifully cooked, falling apart from the moment the fork touched, but still containing that deliciously spicy flavour and crunch that we come to love. (Image: NQ) We followed that up with a lamb pasanda, served with pilau rice and naan. We could not fault the presentation, as the curry was brought out in a silver bowl, with the naan in a small silver platter and the rice on its own plate. (Image: NQ) The portions were very generous too, with a high quantity of chunks of meat in a curry that was smothered in rich sauce that left our tongue tingling with the strength of flavour. The meat was cooked exquisitely, falling apart the moment our fork touched it, and was covered in a sauce that let its flavours sing and shine in a unique manner with each mouthful. (Image: NQ) During the meal, we were also entertained with a brilliant display of steam curling through a small glass jar. It was really one of those things you have to visit to really experience. Throughout our visit, I could not fault the quality of the food or the friendliness of the staff, and would highly recommend a visit to the Pink Elephant. The restaurant is open from 5pm to 11pm Sunday to Thursday and until 11.30pm on Friday and Saturday.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Newport restaurant opens sister branch we couldn't resist a visit
A NEWPORT restaurant has branched out by opening a sister branch in another south Wales town. The Pink Elephant on High Street in Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil, opened on Tuesday, May 13 as the sister restaurant to Three Elephants, which is based in Newport and opened in September 2024. The restaurant is under the ownership of Shah Jahan and the staff are trained under the watchful eye of celebrity chef Aitkur Kahman, who is hoping to pass on some of his 20 years of experience in the food industry, including serving King Charles during his time living in London. (Image: NQ) A spokesperson for the team at Pink Elephant said: "We are pleased to be one of the best Indian restaurants in Merthyr with incredible food, polite and friendly staff, and great value for money. "We highly suggest sampling our Speciality dishes and know you will enjoy every taste. When you order your Curry, Balti, Biryani or Tandoori from us, you'll see why we have been named as one of the best places to experience Indian cuisine in the Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil area." (Image: NQ) We were invited down to try out some dishes on opening night, and one of the first things that struck us on arrival was how busy the restaurant was for a middle of the week opening. Read more The 'best pub in Newport' serving up a 'highly recommended' Sunday lunch Popular Indian restaurant donates meals to local food bank in kind gesture The new shawarma takeaway so good they sold out twice on the first day It was clear that word of the quality and talent of the chefs at Pink Elephant had got around quickly and it was delightful to see how many people were turning out to support a new business. (Image: Supplied) The staff were incredibly friendly, and welcoming throughout our visit, ensuring we had everything we would need while maintaining a wonderfully calm and relaxing atmosphere. We ordered meat samosas to start, which were beautifully cooked, falling apart from the moment the fork touched, but still containing that deliciously spicy flavour and crunch that we come to love. (Image: NQ) We followed that up with a lamb pasanda, served with pilau rice and naan. We could not fault the presentation, as the curry was brought out in a silver bowl, with the naan in a small silver platter and the rice on its own plate. (Image: NQ) The portions were very generous too, with a high quantity of chunks of meat in a curry that was smothered in rich sauce that left our tongue tingling with the strength of flavour. The meat was cooked exquisitely, falling apart the moment our fork touched it, and was covered in a sauce that let its flavours sing and shine in a unique manner with each mouthful. (Image: NQ) During the meal, we were also entertained with a brilliant display of steam curling through a small glass jar. It was really one of those things you have to visit to really experience. Throughout our visit, I could not fault the quality of the food or the friendliness of the staff, and would highly recommend a visit to the Pink Elephant. The restaurant is open from 5pm to 11pm Sunday to Thursday and until 11.30pm on Friday and Saturday.
India.com
6 days ago
- General
- India.com
How Local Markets Define The Soul Of Delhi?
As India's political center and cultural epicenter Delhi permeates with cultural traditions started by its centuries-old history. The civic essence of this lively metropolitan area is expressed through its active markets such as the Red Fort and Qutub Minar and the Humayun's Tomb. These marketplaces demonstrate more than business activities because they present both the cultural variety and historical customs and present-day character of Delhi. Visitors can discover the authentic lifestyle of Delhi residents through the various merchandise available in these market bazaars including street food and handicrafts and textiles and spices. The Vibrant Tapestry of Chandni Chowk A discussion on the markets of Delhi requires starting with Chandni Chowk since it represents the monumental status of one of the oldest living markets in the entire city. Chandni Chowk extends its Mughal-era charm into the present day due to its origin from a marketplace established by Jahanara Begum during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. The mock market of Old Delhi provides shoppers with a maze of traditional items including jewelry along with sarees and traditional Indian treats and street dining options. All food enthusiasts need to explore Paranthe Wali Gali inside Chandni Chowk because it consists of unique traditional eateries along its tight passages. The historic street features multiple shops where people eat piping hot parathas containing unusual fillings such as rabri (sweetened milk) and khoya (milk solids) along with fresh fruits. The historical Karim's restaurant situated near Jama Masjid stands out as a famous dining establishment that offers traditional Mughlai cuisine. Kinari Bazaar in Delhi stands out as a destination which offers wedding trousseau along with embellishments and ornate bridal outfits to its guests. At Chandni Chowk visitors experience more than market activities since the area keeps alive traditions from multiple centuries and functions as a center of communal residential culture. The combination of motoring vehicles with yelling street vendors along with cooking smells which express the true core of Delhi makes Chandni Chowk authentically distinctive. Dilli Haat: A Celebration of Indian Crafts Visitors seeking a single destination that presents the wide array of Indian art forms should visit the Dilli Haat market. The Sri Aurobindo Marg location hosts this open-air marketplace which welcomes artists from all areas of the country who present handmade crafts including textiles, pottery, tribal jewelry and woodwork items. Throughout its operation Dilli Haat serves as a marketplace dedicated to artisan craftspeople from rural regions by maintaining honest commercial practices to sustain traditional craft traditions. Each two-week period brings fresh crafts and cuisines to the market which keeps visitors interested in their regular visits. Dilli Haat's food vendors provide customers regional meals that consist of Rajasthani dal-bati-churma and South Indian idlis along with Kashmiri kebabs. Visitors at this Indian market can experience the full spectrum of national traditions because it creates a compact version of the country that pleases regional and international visitors. Sarojini Nagar: Affordable Fashion Paradise Budget shoppers consider Sarojini Nagar Market their perfect shopping destination. Sarojini Nagar Market provides affordable trendy clothing and fashionable accessories and footwear to students and professionals who join families in shopping. South Delhi's Sarojini Nagar offers both counterfeit luxury brand products as well as unique independent designs making it attractive to shopping lovers. Sarojini Nagar's main attraction stems from its constantly evolving inventory since shoppers will encounter different products with every stop. The one essential element at this market is bargaining while achieving discounts creates an essential part of the experience. Customers find excellent deals and diverse styles whether they need dramatic jewelry items or fashionable sunglasses or premium-priced clothes at this marketplace. Lajpat Nagar Central Market: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity The shopping center at Lajpat Nagar Central Market stands as a major attraction point within South Delhi. People can explore traditional stores that sell ethnic behaviors alongside home décor products and puja requirements while enjoying modern café culture at this busy shopping area. This market is celebrated for providing bridal lehengas together with silk sarees and embroidered fabrics which make it the prime selection for wedding and festive ceremonies in the area. Food enthusiasts visiting this place will find various local snacks such as chaat, momos and chole bhature. Multiple dessert establishments operate within the market to provide visitors with delicious desserts such as gulab jamuns and jalebis. Lajpat Nagar showcases Delhi's essential identity by blending modern consumer culture with time-tested customs which symbolize how the city integrates traditional ways of life with developing aspirations. Khari Baoli: Asia's Largest Spice Market The complete understanding of how cultures fuse together in Delhi requires visiting Khari Baoli which stands as Asia's biggest wholesale spice market. Beyond Fatehpuri Masjid in Old Delhi exists this historical marketplace that fills its walls with stacks of scented spices and dried produce along with nuts and vegetables. This market floods the nostrils with the pungent aromas of cardamom which mix beautifully with turmeric and saffron and cumin. Khari Baoli delivers essential connections through its supply chain operations which support restaurant food services collectively with home kitchens along with export activities. Those visiting the market gain valuable knowledge about the essential role that spices play in Indian culinary traditions. Strolling through its tight passageways next to towering blocks of vibrant produce brings visitors a vivid time trip to a bygone era with trading links to distant destinations. Connaught Place: Where Heritage Meets Commerce Connaught Place mainly draws visitors through its upscale shopping scene but the central area keeps several compact retail spaces waiting to be discovered. Inside the underground Palika Bazaar one can find electronic devices along with watches and affordable souvenirs. Backpackers along with souvenir hunters find appeal at Janpath Market where they can access bohemian clothing and both Tibetan artifacts together with semi-precious stones. The combination of Delhi's historic past and modern retail demand finds its best expression in Connaught Place. Her impressive architecture creates a striking visual contrast to the unpredictable neighborhood streets to show how Delhi successfully combines modern development with traditional foundations. Summary The local markets of Delhi function as the metropolitan heart while offering vibrant vitality and living force. These places showcase the continuous struggle for survival along with inventive spirit and change-oriented development while reflecting Delhi's historic growth pattern. Each marketplace in Delhi presents different perspectives on the city's distinctive qualities through its exploration of traditional Chandni Chowk lanes and its display of Indian art at Dilli Haat and its shopping scene at Sarojini Nagar. The bazaars operate as vibrant cultural centers that unite communities together in addition to serving as venues for shopping. One discovers the authentic character of Delhi by becoming fully present in its bustling markets through visual experiences and auditory sensations along with aromatic encounters. The city unveils its authentic character in this location as people find a multi-rooted flower garden of cultural traditions and sensory experiences across different tastes.
The Hindu
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
The ‘othering': how Muslim identity evolved in Hindi cinema down the ages
For a little over 300 years, the Mughals ruled over much of India. For a little under three decades, between 1940 and 1967, they reigned over the silver screen. The stories, real or imagined, of Humayun, Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan even Bahadur Shah Zafar, were brought to the screen by names as formidable as K. Asif and M. Sadiq. The 'Muslim Historical' became a genre by itself in Hindi cinema. The films portrayed Mughal emperors as larger-than-life figures, wedded to the principles of justice and unity. As Ira Bhaskar and Richard Allen write in Islamicate Cultures of Bombay Cinema (Tulika), 'The Muslim Historical of this period presents an image of the Mughal Emperor as a unifying force, who sought to embrace rather than erase forms of Hindu religiosity and culture.' A case in point was the Krishna Bhakti song at Akbar's court in Mughal-e-Azam. But the Muslim identity in cinema couldn't be confined to kings and queens. An off shoot of the royal sagas was the 'Muslim Social' which came replete with nawabs, Urdu shayari, sherwanis and salams. Mere Mehboob was a classic example as was Nikaah. Changing phase Then there was the 'Muslim Courtesan', as seen in Kamal Amrohi's cult movie Pakeezah, Muzaffar Ali's classic Umrao Jaan, and to a lesser extent B.R. Chopra's Tawaif. Over time, the fully clad courtesan became superfluous to the needs of changing cinema. The 'Muslim Social' faded away and the 'Muslim Historical' gave way to valiant Maratha sagas. The age of Islamophobia had no space for the all-embracing Akbar, the lovelorn Shah Jahan. In came Alauddin Khalji, portrayed as a blood thirsty tyrant in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmaavat and Aurangzeb shown as a cruel megalomaniac in the more recent Laxman Utekar's Chhaava. Between Mughal-e-Azam and Chhaava, Hindi cinema has come a full circle. Films like Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, Kesari and Tanhaji 'suitably aligned with the saffronised version of historical narrative,' as Nadira Khatun puts it in her painstaking work, Postcolonial Bollywood and Muslim Identity (Oxford). Incidentally, Khatun's book, along with Muslim Identity in Hindi Cinema (Routledge) by Asim Siddiqui, and Bhaskar and Allen's book, is among the more serious forays into deciphering the Muslim identity in Hindi cinema, an identity which has often been projected according to the prevalent political mood of the nation. Face of menace For more than three decades after Independence, Muslims were almost always the good guys. They could do no wrong. There was the ubiquitous Rahim Chacha, played by A.K. Hangal in no less than 60 films. It changed in the new millennium when Muslims ceased to be the good guys on the big screen. Now they were menacing men with guns and growl; the kohl-lined villains were all Muslims, those aspiring to bomb the nation too were Muslims. Even in films like Iqbal, Chak De India! and Mulk which had positive Muslim characters, the Muslims were 'destined to show their loyalty to the state', as Khatun writes. Though far removed from reality, and clearly driven by politics of the day, it is not the first time this has happened. If in the 1950s and '60s, the Muslim kings were shown in a positive light, it was thanks to the Nehruvian politics of secularism and socialism — inclusion rather than exclusion was the guiding mantra then. Today's films mirror the changed political climate. As Khatun reminds readers, 'That these films coincide heavily with the current political narratives can be shown through the example of Tanhaji (2020). Ajay Devgan, who portrays the role of the protagonist, started promoting the film by uploading the trailer on Twitter, writing '4th Feb 1670: The surgical strike that shook the Mughal Empire!''. Likewise, Ashutosh Gowarikar's Panipat released on December 6, 2019, coinciding with the day of the Babri Masjid demolition in 1992. Post-2014, this over-the-top depiction off evil Muslims has caught the eye even of the less discerning. Holding a mirror In his meticulously researched work which throws fresh light on the depiction of Muslims in cinema from the pre-Partition days, Siddiqui writes: 'In many films since the 1990s, a Hindu hero is depicted waging a battle against Muslim villains who pose a threat to society and national security....A recurrent motif in Hindi cinema since the 1970s is to show a don (Zanjeer, Tezaab, Angaar) or a terrorist being 'a devout Muslim'...He also appears very cultured, refined and even humane.' Siddiqui points at Paresh Rawal playing Suleiman bhai, a villain who wears a skullcap, and Naseeruddin Shah's popular singer Ghulam Hassan who comes to India to spread insurgency. The underlying message was, 'they' cannot be trusted. It was, in many ways, the beginning of the othering of Muslims in Hindi cinema. Or, as Siddiqui writes, there were films like Parinda, Maqbool and Mohra where Muslim gangsters lived in a decontextualised world. Again, from the always-praying Rahim Chacha of countless potboilers to the drug-sniffing Abdul Khan of Parinda, Muslim characters had come a long way. The reality was, of course, far removed from a Mohra or a Tezaab. It was left to a sensitive Garam Hava by M.S. Sathyu, Salim Langde Pe Mat Ro by Saeed Mirza and Mammo by Shyam Benegal to tell us there was a Muslim world where there was no emperor, no courtesan and no gangster, a society where people had dreams; they had their fears too. Just normal people.
