The Taj Mahal in India has been called a 'teardrop on the cheek of time'. This grand monument that was raised to house the mortal remains of Mumtaz Mahal, the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan's beloved wife, today draws millions of visitors from across the globe. One of more than 85 titles Campfire has published since their introduction to North America in 2010. This is the story behind the Taj Mahal - of the incredible love story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, how they met and fell in love, and how Shah Jahan was to lose her as she died while giving birth. This is also the story of how the Taj Mahal was built, and how the great Mughal emperor spent his last days imprisoned in his fort, pining for his beloved Mumtaz, as he gazed over the river for a view of the magnificent edifice, a monumental reminder of his love and loss.
The well-illustrated story of the building of the Taj Mahal, one of the world's most beautiful monuments, and the Mughal dynasty in India whose 5th emperor built it.
While Galileo suffered under house arrest at the hands of Pope Urban VIII, the Thirty Years War ruined Europe, and the Pilgrims struggled to survive in the New World, work began on what would become one of the Seven Wonders of the World: the Taj Mahal. Built by the Moghul emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, its flawless symmetry and gleaming presence have for centuries dazzled everyone who has seen it, and the story of its creation is a fascinating blend of cultural and architectural heritage. Yet, as Diana & Michael Preston vividly convey in the first narrative history of the Taj, it also reflects the magnificent history of the Moghul Empire itself, for it turned out to mark the high point of the Empire's glory at the same time as it became a tipping point in Moghul fortunes. The roots of the Moghul Empire lie with the legendary warriors Genghis Khan and Tamburlaine; at its height it contained 100 million people, from Afghanistan in the north and present-day Pakistan in the west, to Bengal in the east and southwards deep into central India.. With the storytelling skills that characterize their previous books, Diana & Michael Preston bring alive both the grand sweep of Moghul history and the details that make it memorable: the battles and dynastic rivalries that forged the Empire alongside an intimate chronicle of daily life within the imperial palace. A tale of overwhelming passion, the story of the Taj has the cadences of Greek tragedy and the ripe emotion of grand opera, and puts a memorable human face on the marble masterpiece.
When his queen, Arjumand Banu - Mumtaz-i-Mahal, the Chosen One of the Palace - died, Shah Jahan wanted to build a monument that was the image of his perfect love for her. For twenty-two years, twenty thousand men laboured day and night to fulfil the emperors obsession. The result was the Taj Mahal, a marble mausoleum lined with gold, silver and precious jewels. This powerful novel narrates the story of the Taj on two parallel levels. The first one tells the passionate love story of Shah Jahan and Arjumand till her death through the voices of three main characters - Arjumand, Shah Jahan and Isa, Arjumands favourite eunuch. The second recounts the later years of Shah Jahans reign, the building of the Taj Mahal and the bloody pursuit of the fabled Peacock Throne by his sons. Intertwined with the narrative about the building of the Taj is the story of Murthi, the Hindu craftsman sent as a gift to the emperor to carve the famous marble jali around Arjumands sarcophagus. In this complex and fascinating book, Murari has written much more than a historical romance. He has skillfully recreated the period against which the story is set: the opulence of the palace and the grinding poverty of seventeenth-century India, the vicissitudes of Shah Jahans reign and the often bitter conflict between men of different faiths
Critically acclaimed author Indu Sundaresan picks up where she left off in The Twentieth Wife and The Feast of Roses, returning to seventeenth-century India as two princesses struggle for supremacy of their father’s kingdom. Trapped in the shadow of the magnificent tomb their grief-stricken father is building for his beloved deceased wife, the emperor’s daughters compete for everything: control over the imperial harem, their father’s affection, and the future of their country. They are forbidden to marry and instead choose to back different brothers in the fight for ultimate power over the throne. But only one of the sisters will succeed. With an enthusiasm for history and a flair for rich detail, Indu Sundaresan brings readers deep into the complicated lives of Indian women of the time period and highlights the profound history of one of the most celebrated works of architecture in the world, the Taj Mahal.
"A rich historical tapestry...Sundaresan colors the life of a fascinating woman whose female wiles inspired the Taj Mahal" (Booklist). The love story of Emperor Jahangir and Mehrunnisa, begun in the critically praised debut novel The Twentieth Wife, continues in Indu Sundaresan's lush second novel, The Feast of Roses. Here, Mehrunnisa comes into Jahangir's harem as his twentieth and last wife. This time Jahangir has married for love, and members of his court are worried that Mehrunnisa could exert control over their futures. Their concerns are well founded. Mehrunnisa soon becomes the most powerful woman in the Mughal Empire in spite of a formidable rival in the imperial harem who has schemed and plotted against her from the start. She rules from behind the veil, securing her status by forming a junta of sorts with her father, brother, and stepson -- and risking it all, even her daughter, to get what she wants. But she never loses the love of the man who bestows this power upon her....
Taj Mahal The Taj Mahal in Agra is arguably the most iconic image of India and is visited by eight million tourists annually. It was characterized as "pure, perfect and unutterably lovely" by the British Viceroy, Lord Curzon, and in 1983, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site of "outstanding universal value." For centuries the world has believed that it was built by Shah Jahan in 1631 to immortalize his love for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Certain mysteries and myths that surround the monument have recently come to the fore in the country, stimulating a public debate about the place it holds as a true representation of Indian culture. Inside you will read about... - The Life of Mumtaz Mahal: The Jewel of the Palace - The Building of the Taj Mahal - A UNESCO World Heritage Site - Myths, Conjecture, and Controversy - The 22 Locked Rooms in the Basement And much more! This book presents the five main historical figures of the Mughal Empire in India during that period as well as many details of how the Taj Mahal was built. It traces the events that have led to the present controversy.
Immerse yourself in the timeless tale of love and legacy with "The Story of Taj Mahal" by Jayprakash Chowksey. Explore the rich history and captivating mythology surrounding one of the world's most iconic monuments as Chowksey unveils the secrets and symbolism behind the magnificent Taj Mahal. Join Chowksey as he takes you on a journey through the centuries, tracing the origins of the Taj Mahal from its conception to its construction and eventual status as a global symbol of love and beauty. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Chowksey brings to life the fascinating story behind this architectural marvel. Delve into the themes of love, loss, and eternal devotion as you unravel the mysteries of the Taj Mahal. From the legendary romance of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal to the intricate craftsmanship and architectural brilliance that went into its creation, Chowksey explores the myriad layers of symbolism and significance that have made the Taj Mahal a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to enduring love. Experience the grandeur and majesty of the Taj Mahal as Chowksey takes you on a virtual tour of this architectural wonder. Through stunning photographs, detailed descriptions, and historical anecdotes, he invites readers to marvel at the beauty of the Taj Mahal and contemplate its significance as a monument to human creativity and craftsmanship. The overall tone of "The Story of Taj Mahal" is one of reverence, awe, and admiration for the enduring legacy of this architectural masterpiece. With its blend of history, mythology, and cultural significance, the book offers readers a comprehensive understanding of the Taj Mahal's place in world history and its enduring impact on global culture. Since its publication, "The Story of Taj Mahal" has captivated readers with its captivating narrative and stunning visuals. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Chowksey's passion for the subject and his ability to convey the magic and mystique of the Taj Mahal to readers of all ages. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of architecture, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, "The Story of Taj Mahal" offers a captivating and immersive reading experience that will transport you to a world of romance, beauty, and cultural significance. Join Jayprakash Chowksey on a journey through time and discover the enchanting story behind one of the world's most beloved landmarks. Don't miss your chance to explore the captivating tale of love and legacy with "The Story of Taj Mahal" by Jayprakash Chowksey. Let its stunning visuals and engaging narrative transport you to the heart of this architectural marvel and uncover the secrets of its timeless beauty. Secure your copy now and embark on a journey through history, romance, and cultural heritage with one of the world's most iconic monuments.
