Another Taj Mahal now in Agra

Calcutta News.Net
Sunday 4th January, 2009 (IANS)

Another Taj Mahal has been set up in Agra. Not for Mumtaz, but for the delegates of a national conference on mental health.

A huge replica, made of bamboos, white sheets, plywood, thermocol and plaster of Paris, has been set up within 40 days to provide a unique venue to the delegates of the conference beginning Jan 8.

'What could be more wonderful than the Taj Mahal itself. The delegates coming from all over the world will have the unique opportunity to hold discussions and share views in the shadow of the Taj Mahal which will be a source of inspiration also. They can get photographed, walk in and out at their convenience and without paying any entry fees,' owner of Hari Om Tent House in Agra Satish Agarwal told IANS.

He said the organisers wanted a unique and spectacular venue.

'It took 70 workers and artists to do the job. Built over a 6,000 sq feet area, it is more than 100 feet high, with fountains and lawns.

'Instead of verses from the holy Quran, we wrote Khushamdeed (welcome) to avoid any controversy. I am sure the guests will like it. A lot of imagination and planning has gone into it... definitely a tribute to the master builders of the Mughal period.'

Also, the Agra Mental Hospital is being dressed up. The asylum inmates have been given new uniforms. They are asked to work in the lush green gardens and are giving a fresh coat of paint to the wards.

Vishal, a photographer, said: 'From a distance you can not make out whether this model of the Taj is original or duplicate. It has been done so artistically keeping in mind all the details and geometry of the original.'

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