Tag: Mughal architecture

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Taj Mahal Declared the Most Beautiful Building in the World in 2025

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Agra, India – July 2025: India’s most iconic monument, the Taj Mahal, has been crowned the Most Beautiful Building in the World in 2025 by a global architecture and design ranking released this week. The announcement further solidifies the Taj Mahal’s status as a symbol of artistic excellence and architectural genius.

Constructed in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the white marble marvel in Agra has stood as a timeless ode to love for nearly four centuries. Its symmetrical design, intricate inlay work, calligraphy, domes, and lush gardens continue to awe millions of visitors every year.

The 2025 recognition was part of an international survey conducted by architectural experts, cultural institutions, and tourism platforms who considered factors like aesthetics, historical significance, architectural style, global influence, and visitor experience.

According to the panel, “The Taj Mahal is more than a building; it is a visual poem in marble, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture that seamlessly blends Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. Its symmetry, serenity, and emotional backstory place it above all others.”

The announcement has been welcomed with pride across India. The Ministry of Culture stated, “This honor reflects India’s unmatched cultural heritage and the global love for the Taj Mahal. It is not just a monument—it is a symbol of beauty, devotion, and timeless craftsmanship.”

Tourism boards are already witnessing a surge in interest following the announcement, as the Taj Mahal continues to be a bucket-list destination for travelers around the world.

📍Located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, the Taj Mahal remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

As the world evolves, the Taj Mahal’s pristine presence reminds us that true beauty stands the test of time.

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Sheesh Mahal Restored to Glory: Delhi’s Mughal-Era Jewel Reopens After 370 Years

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

In a city layered with history, one of Delhi’s lesser-known yet stunning Mughal-era structures has come back to life. The Sheesh Mahal, located in Shalimar Bagh, has reopened after an elaborate and sensitive restoration, giving Delhiites and tourists a rare chance to step into a forgotten chapter of the capital’s royal past.

Built in 1653 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, Sheesh Mahal was part of the opulent Aizzabad Garden, believed to be dedicated to Aizzun-Nisha Begum. The palace earned its poetic name “Shalimar”, meaning “abode of pleasure”, and served as a luxurious retreat for the imperial family.

The monument also holds historical significance as the site of Aurangzeb’s first coronation in 1658, placing it firmly within the timeline of key Mughal events.

The turning point came in 2024, when Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena visited the deteriorating structure and initiated a multi-agency revival. Under his leadership, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) joined forces for a dual restoration: ASI focused on the palace itself, while DDA revived the surrounding garden in the traditional Char Bagh layout—a classic symbol of Persian-Mughal landscaping.

What sets this restoration apart is the use of authentic Mughal materials and techniques. Craftsmen used:

  • Lakhauri bricks
  • Lime Surkhi mortar
  • Natural adhesives made from jaggery, bael fruit, and urad dal
    These were the same materials used by Mughal builders centuries ago, ensuring historical accuracy and preserving the architectural integrity of the site.

Now reintroduced to the public, Sheesh Mahal offers a glimpse into the elegance and craftsmanship of Mughal India. The restored palace features intricate arches, restored domes, and lush gardens, making it a serene escape within Delhi’s urban sprawl.

Visitors can now walk through the Shalimar Bagh complex, reflect on its historic importance, and marvel at the blend of art, architecture, and devotion to authenticity that brought it back to life.

This restoration is more than a facelift—it’s a symbol of Delhi’s commitment to preserving its past, a tangible reminder of a royal legacy, and a new cultural landmark for generations to experience.