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The main finial was originally made of gold but was replaced by a copy made of gilded bronze In the early 19th century. This feature provides a clear example of integration of traditional Persian and Hindu decorative elements. The finial is topped by a moon, a typical Islamic motif whose horns point heavenward. Because of its placement on the main spire, the horns of the moon and the finial point combine to create a trident shape, reminiscent of traditional Hindu symbols of Shiva.
The minarets, which are each more than 40 meters tall, display the designer’s penchant for symmetry. They were designed as working minarets — a traditional element of mosques, used by the muezzin to call the Islamic faithful to prayer. Each minaret is effectively divided into three equal parts by two working balconies that ring the tower. At the top of the tower is a final balcony surmounted by a chattri that mirrors the design of those on the tomb. The chattris all share the same decorative elements of a lotus design topped by a gilded finial. The minarets were constructed slightly outside of the plinth so that, in the event of collapse, (a typical occurrence with many tall constructions of the period) the material from the towers would tend to fall away from the tomb.

Tags

india, islam, up, muslim, agra, shajahan, taj mahal, mumtaz begum, mugol architect, ancient monument

An Indian Photographer Mukesh Srivastava made a successful foray into the digital arena. With the dawn of digital photography, Mukesh embarked a new journey a little less that half a decade back and this journey has seen him win critical acclaim and accolade from across over the globe.

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Comments

  • Quinn000
    Quinn000almost 4 years ago

    Gorgeous!! I want to live there! lol

  • Thanx so much,Gina!!!! Must visit Agra…A great place for the Photographers…

    – Mukesh Srivastava

  • Raphael Lopez
    Raphael Lopezalmost 4 years ago

    This is a great example where simplicity delivers a powerful photographic message. Brilliant!!

  • Thanx so much for stopping and such nice comments!!!!!!!

    – Mukesh Srivastava

  • AnnDixon
    AnnDixonalmost 4 years ago

    Stunning, I would so like to visit this beautiful place,

  • DaveBassett
    DaveBassettalmost 4 years ago

    Excellent shot of this superb building.