Shah Jahan’s birth anniversary to be observed at Taj

This will be Shah Jahan’s 361st birth anniversary celebrations which will begin with the washing of the graves of the emperor and his queen Mumtaz Mahal. 

The celebration gives tourists and pilgrims an opportunity to visit the graves of the royal couple at Taj Mahal. Entry to the white marble mausoleum Taj Mahal will be free for three days. An 870 metre multi-colour chadar, representing different religions, will be laid on the grave of the emperor on May 5. 

Officials said on Tuesday and on Wednesday tourists’ entry will be free from 2 pm to sunset. On the last day, May 5, entry will be free throughout the day. Every year Khuddam-e-roza (traditional caretakers of the Taj) committee offers a long multi-colour chadar, representing different faiths of the country, at the grave during the birth anniversary. Last year, it was 810 metres long and this has been increased to 870 metre. 

The unique thing about this offering is that the chadar is made by stitching pieces of cloth presented to the committee by people from different religions on fulfilment of their wishes. Moreover, the chadar starts its journey every year from a religious site, be it a temple, church or mosque.

According to committee member it is the seventh generation which is offering the chadar at the Mughal emperor’s grave. The event is chosen to spread message of communal harmony in the society. Syed Munawwar Ali, president of Taj Mahal Masjid Intezamiya committee, said; “Following the age-old tradition, shehnai and qawwali sessions will be held on all the three days at the royal gate.” 

A meeting of senior officials of CISF, UP police, district administration and Archaeological of Survey of India was held to discuss the arrangements made for the annual celebration.