Watch Great India: Secrets of the Taj Mahal

Great India: Secrets of the Taj Mahal is a fascinating documentary that explores the mysteries and legends surrounding one of the most famous monuments in the world: the Taj Mahal. Directed by Prabhu Deva, the movie takes us on a journey through the rich history and culture of India, uncovering the secrets behind the construction of this magnificent edifice.

Narrated by Najaf Haider, the film features interviews with scholars, historians, and architects, who reveal the architectural, cultural and religious significance of the Taj Mahal. They also shed light on some of the lesser-known stories and legends associated with the monument, which has fascinated people around the world for centuries.

The documentary begins with a brief overview of the Mughal Empire, which ruled India from the early 16th century until the mid-19th century. We learn about the life of Emperor Shah Jahan, who commissioned the construction of the Taj Mahal as a tribute to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, after she died during childbirth. The film explains how the emperor spared no expense in building the Taj Mahal, which took more than 20 years to complete and required the labor of thousands of skilled artisans and craftsmen.

One of the most interesting aspects of the documentary is its exploration of the engineering and architectural marvels of the Taj Mahal. We learn about the intricate design of the monument, which is based on the principles of Islamic and Persian architecture. We also discover how the builders of the Taj Mahal employed advanced techniques and tools to create the intricate marble carvings and inlay work that adorn the monument.

In addition to the technical aspects of the Taj Mahal, the documentary also delves into the cultural and religious significance of the monument. We learn about the symbolism of the various decorative elements, such as the inlaid floral motifs that represent the gardens of paradise, and the calligraphy inscriptions from the Quran that adorn the entranceways.

Another fascinating aspect of the documentary is the exploration of the various myths and legends that surround the Taj Mahal. For example, there is a popular belief that the emperor cut off the hands of the artisans who built the monument, so that they could never replicate its design. While there is no evidence to support this claim, the documentary explores the origins of this legend and its persistence in popular culture.

Overall, Great India: Secrets of the Taj Mahal is an enlightening and engaging documentary that provides a rich and nuanced look at one of the world's most iconic monuments. Through its careful examination of the cultural, religious, and artistic dimensions of the Taj Mahal, the film deepens our understanding and appreciation of this remarkable edifice. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of India, or in the art and architecture of the Islamic world.