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Taj Mahal Vanished During 1971 War: Here’s How India Pulled off the Trickiest Trick of all Times! | TDG Explainer

May 9, 2025, 11:09 am

As India readies itself for the biggest civil defense exercises since 1971 in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, an erstwhile wartime game plan is under the spotlight all over again that the one that envisioned the Taj Mahal ‘disappearing’

In December 1971, when Indo-Pak was at war, Indian cities went into alert. The threat to military installations alone was not believed that there was fear that the Pakistani air force could target India’s cultural sites as well.

One such location at risk was the Taj Mahal in Agra. As two Pakistani planes bombed the nearby Kheria Airbase, destroying the runway and causing panic, fears emerged that the legendary monument might serve as a landmark for enemy pilots to locate military bases. India wasn’t ready to take a chance.

How Taj Mahal was Hidden?

Responding to this, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) undertook an unusual task cover the Taj Mahal with camouflage.

The sparkling white marble of the mausoleum was shrouded with gigantic green-dyed jute tarpaulins in order to mix with the surroundings of the Taj Mahal. The minarets themselves were shrouded as well, employing the twigs of trees and leaves. Sand was also used on the marble ground to minimize the shine. Light on the monument was also cut off, and visitors were avoided.

It took two days to wrap the Taj with the tarpaulin weighing more than 18,700 lbs (8,482 kg),” said Nathi Lal, a monument worker who was involved in the operation, in an interview with The Irish Times. “Over 598 kilograms of nails and 63 thick sewing needles were used to secure the cover,” he added.

The aim was very simple: to fool the enemy pilots and keep the astonishing beauty, heritage and pride of India intact. This camouflage remained in position for more than two weeks.

Other Monuments Also Covered

The Taj Mahal was not the only monument India preserved during the war. Heritage monuments such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Jaisalmer Fort were also protected. Dummy replicas were, in some instances, built close by to deceive enemy planes.

Interestingly, this was not a first. In World War II in 1942, British troops had constructed bamboo scaffolding around the Taj to present it as a pile of stores, fearing that German or Japanese bombers might attack it.

These low-tech means were surprisingly effective in a pre-satellite image and precision weapons era.

Mock Drills in 1971

Beyond camouflaging monuments, India had launched widespread civil defence drills to prepare citizens for war. Entire cities practiced blackout exercises, where people turned off lights to avoid becoming targets for aerial bombings.

Madhurendra Prasad Sinha, currently a journalist, was just a teenager then. He was living in Dumka, which was then in Bihar. He remembers the atmosphere: “There was never a moment of panic. We used to be told to switch off lights and take shelter under any table or chowki whenever the sound of sirens echoed.”

Blackout exercises would start as early as 6:30 pm. “By then, people were already home,” he said.

RK Sharma, a retired bureaucrat, recalled the rules with ease. “You had to cover the glasses with paper, and if you were outside and heard the siren, you were supposed to lie down on the floor and close your ears,” he informed Times Now.

Even offices and schools adapted. People were being sent home early, and children were being instructed on how to respond during air raids.

Nation Ready to Fight Again

Now, as tensions are once more running high along the Indo-Pak border, India is preparing to conduct another series of civil defence exercises, this time on an even bigger scale.

On Wednesday, there are rehearsals in 259 sites in 33 states and union territories. These involve the simulation of air raids, evacuation drills, and safety in bunkers. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) teams will be showing civilians the way.

However, the character of such practices has transformed over time.

“There are just so many servers, so many modes of communication nowadays,” Sinha said. “The most we will do for mock drills is to use stairs or exit a large building, such as a mall.”

Vlogger Recommends Tourists THIS Must-Visit Spot in Agra, An It’s Not Taj Mahal

November 14, 2024, 5:47 pm

YouTuber and Instagram influencer Sean Hammond, well-known for his travel vlogs, is currently touring India and sharing his experiences from the streets of Delhi. In one of his recent videos, Sean urged travelers to visit a spot that amazed him, though it’s neither the iconic Taj Mahal nor Delhi’s historic Red Fort. Instead, he recommended Agra Fort, a destination he found captivating.

“Everyone talks about The Taj Mahal, but this place is right beside it and it’s half the price. It’s roughly four times bigger than The Taj Mahal,” Sean shared, building curiosity among his viewers.

Agra Fort

A few seconds into the video, he revealed Agra Fort as the must-see location, initially calling it the “Red Fort” before clarifying his mistake. “So if you are in Agra, make sure you don’t miss The Red Fort—well, actually Agra Fort,” he corrected.

Describing his experience at Agra Fort, Sean highlighted its remarkable structure and historical richness. “It’s got all these little hidden pathways, and though it looks like it’s in excellent condition, it was built over 500 years ago,” he explained. Through his camera, Sean also captured the stunning view of the Taj Mahal visible from within the fort’s walls.

Expressing his admiration for Agra, Sean posted, “The Taj Mahal (for those who don’t know) is in Agra, a city many tourists visit just for a day to see the Taj, then move on. Agra may not have the landscapes, markets, or nightlife of other Indian cities, but it’s still worth exploring.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sean Hammond (@seanhammonds)

Social Media Reaction

Within a week of being posted, Sean’s video gathered thousands of likes on Instagram, with viewers sharing their own love for Agra Fort. One user commented, “Agra Fort is amazing; I was there last October.” Another added, “The red fort is amazing!! I visited in 2017 and can’t wait to go back!”

Several users even recommended other destinations for Sean’s India tour. “Taj Mahal is overrated. Visit the greatest spectacle made by humans on earth—Kailasa Temple at Ellora Caves in Maharashtra,” one suggested. Another wrote, “Do visit the Thanjavur Big Temple! It’s beautiful.”

Water Leaks From Taj Mahal’s Main Dome After Heavy Rain in Agra, Video Goes Viral

September 14, 2024, 12:33 pm

The Taj Mahal’s iconic main dome in Agra has experienced water leakage due to three consecutive days of heavy rain, as reported by news agency PTI. The continuous downpour caused flooding in one of the monument’s gardens, drawing attention from visitors and sparking concern when a viral video of the waterlogged area circulated on Thursday.

A senior official from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Agra Circle, confirmed the issue, citing that the leakage in the main dome was caused by seepage, but assured that there was no significant damage. “Yes, we observed leakage in the main dome of the Taj Mahal. Upon inspection, it was found to be caused by seepage, and no damage has occurred. We verified the condition of the dome using a drone camera,” ASI Agra Chief Rajkumar Patel told PTI.

The viral video, which is about 20 seconds long, shows one of the gardens completely submerged in rainwater. This unusual sight caught the attention of tourists, many of whom filmed the incident.

Watch:

??? | The symbol of love, Taj Mahal, is flooded. The garden situated in the premises of this beautiful building is submerged. It has been raining continuously for the last 24 hours in Agra. Efforts are on to drain out the water.
? #Agra | #UttarPradesh | #india #tajmahal… https://t.co/V3YoVyg79y pic.twitter.com/iMTMWxdPv6

— Weather monitor (@Weathermonitors) September 12, 2024

Local government-approved tour guides highlighted the significance of the Taj Mahal, not only as a symbol of national pride but also as a key source of employment for hundreds in Agra’s tourism sector. Monika Sharma, one such guide, remarked, “Proper care must be taken of the monument, as it is the only hope for those in the tourism sector.”

For the past few days, heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc across Agra, leading to waterlogging in various parts of the city. National highways were flooded, crops were submerged, and even upscale areas faced severe water-clogging issues.

About the Taj Mahal

Built between 1632 and 1653 by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the Taj Mahal stands as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this architectural marvel blends Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. The complex includes a grand dome, elegant minarets, lush gardens, and a reflecting pool, representing eternal love and attracting millions of visitors every year.

Two Right-Wing Activists Arrested For Gangajal Offering At Taj Mahal, Claiming It As Shiva Temple

August 3, 2024, 3:26 pm

Two men from a right-wing organization were arrested for allegedly offering Gangajal at the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, during the holy month of Sawan. The men, claiming to be associated with the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, argued that they were performing a religious ritual at what they believe to be ‘Tejo Mahalay,’ a Shiva temple.

Arrest Details

The Tajganj Police confirmed the arrest of the two individuals at the Taj Mahal premises. A video circulating on social media shows one of the men pouring water from a plastic bottle onto a closed staircase leading to the basement of the Taj Mahal, which houses the original graves of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. They insisted that the Taj Mahal is not a monument but a Shiva temple, and the holy water was poured onto a sticker displaying “Om.”

इन बेवकुफो को कोई समझाओ कीं सावन में गंगा जल शिवलिंग पर चढ़ाया जाता है ना कीं कब्र पर

आगरा :ताजमहल के अंदर कब्र पर अखिल भारत हिन्दू महासभा के कार्यकर्ताओं ने गंगाजल चढ़ाया।#tajmahal pic.twitter.com/6s0vDrc0CO

— Gaurav Yadav (@ygauravyadav) August 3, 2024

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for the security of the Taj Mahal, arrested the men. They had entered the premises as tourists, having purchased tickets, which allowed them to bring in water bottles.

Ongoing Controversy

Efforts to rename the Taj Mahal as a Shiva temple have been ongoing, with occasional attempts to conduct aarti or pujas at the site. A court case is currently underway seeking permission for such religious offerings. The month of Sawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and groups aligned with Hindutva ideology often refer to the Taj Mahal as ‘Tejo Mahalay.’

Agra city Deputy Commissioner of Police Suraj Rai confirmed that the two men are in custody at the Taj Ganj police station, and a probe is underway.

Previously, a woman activist from the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha attempted to enter the Taj Mahal carrying water from the Ganga River at Soron in Kasganj but was stopped by police at a barricade.

‘Lord Shiv Called Me…’: Kanwariya Tries To Offer ‘Gangajal’ At Taj Mahal

July 30, 2024, 11:54 am

On Monday, a kanwariya attempted to offer ‘Gangajal’ at the Taj Mahal, claiming that ‘Lord Shiv’ had instructed her to do so in a dream. The woman, Meena Rathore, was halted by the monument’s authorities.

“I came to Tejo Mahalaya to offer the ‘Gangajal’. Lord Shiv called me in my dreams and I brought the kanwar to offer at Tejo Mahalaya. But, they (policemen) have stopped me from going ahead,” Rathore, a member of a right-wing group, told the media.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Taj Suraksha, Syed Areeb Ahmad, informed PTI that Rathore was stopped at the west gate barrier and was not permitted to enter the Taj Mahal. “After some time, she decided on her own to offer the ‘Gangajal’ at the Rajeshwar temple,” Ahmad added.

Sanjay Jaat, a spokesperson for the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, supported Rathore’s action, asserting that it was their “right” to offer ‘Gangajal,’ claiming the Taj Mahal is actually a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. “It is our right to offer the ‘Ganga Jal’ in Taj Mahal as Taj Mahal is ‘Tejo Mahalaya,’ a temple of Lord Shiva. She brought the kanwar from Soron ji in Kasganj and reached Agra after two days,” he said.

The Taj Mahal frequently becomes a point of contention with right-wing groups asserting it to be a Shiva temple. However, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) had clarified in a 2017 court case that the monument is a tomb, not a temple.

World Heritage Day: No Entry Fee to Centrally Protected Monuments on April 18

April 18, 2024, 5:00 am

On World Heritage Day, which falls on Thursday, no entry fee will be charged at centrally protected monuments. While access to the Taj Mahal will remain free, visitors wishing to enter the main mausoleum will incur charges.

Raj Kumar Patel, the Superintending Archaeologist of the Archaeological Survey of India’s Agra Circle, issued a directive permitting complimentary entry to monuments safeguarded by the ASI. Agra boasts three UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Sites: Agra Fort, Taj Mahal, and Fatehpur Sikri, located 40 km from the city.

“All monuments where entry is ticketed, will have free entry on World Heritage Day on Thursday. Because of hot weather, no major event is being organised this time and a short duration programme will be organised at Sikandra Tomb on the Agra-Delhi highway on Thursday,” said Agra ASI chief, RK Patel.

As part of the event organized by the ASI to commemorate World Heritage Day, special children from the Tears institution will have the opportunity to visit the monument.

Visitors interested in visiting the main mausoleum at the Taj Mahal will be required to purchase a special ticket priced at ₹200. This area houses the tombs of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.

BJP MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi claims that Taj Mahal not a ‘symbol of love’

April 6, 2023, 4:56 pm

On Thrusday, According to Assam BJP MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi, who claims that the Taj Mahal is not a representation of love, “Shah Jahan married three times more after the death of Mumtaz.”

On Wednesday, Kurmi said that “Shah Jahan erected the Taj Mahal in honour of Mumtaz, his fourth wife. Why did he get married three more times after Mumtaz passed away if he truly adored her? The BJP MLA claimed that the Taj Mahal and Qutab Minar were constructed by the Moghuls with funds taken from Hindu monarchs.

“If the people of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, are able to build the Statue of Unity, we should also think about it also. The Mughals came to India in the 15th century, and many Hindu temples were built before them,” Kurmi said.
He also said that the story of Shah Jahan should not be known to the next generation.

Fog shrouds Agra’s Taj Mahal

January 11, 2023, 1:36 pm

Several cities of Uttar Pradesh continue to grapple with cold and fog on Wednesday. The India Meteorological Department tweeted on Wednesday, “very dense fog observed in many places over Haryana, Punjab, west UP, sub-Himalayan west Bengal and Sikkim.” Even the iconic Taj Mahal was not visible from a distance as a thick blanket of fog shrouded the landmark. A tourist said, “The Taj Mahal is not visible from a distance. One has to get closer to the landmark for it to be clearly visible”.

People were seen huddling around bonfires in the streets of Lucknow and Agra. Amid dense fog and cold wave, several trains were reported to be running late in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur on Wednesday.

Supreme Court declines to entertain PIL for evolution of Taj Mahal’s ‘real age’, ‘real history’

December 5, 2022, 2:14 pm

The iconic Taj Mahal was the subject of public interest litigation (PIL) on Monday, but the Supreme Court declined to take it on the grounds that it is not the role of the courts to judge the “real age” and “real history” of such monuments.

“Do not drag courts into everything. Can we determine what is the age of the Taj Mahal or the historical facts behind it after 400 years?” a bench of justices MR Shah and CT Ravikumar asked the counsel appearing for the Haryana-based petitioner Surjit Yadav.

Yadav’s lawyer argued that the petition’s goal was to have schools educate the “correct facts” on the monument from the 17th century.

. He added the plea seeks to determine whether the structure existed before Mughal emperor Shah Jahan got the Taj Mahal built.

But the bench remained unimpressed. “See your prayers…remove wrong facts? Who will decide what is the correct fact? Will you decide? Is it the job of a court?”

The attorney decided to drop the PIL after observing the court’s apparent lack of interest, stating that his client would prefer to make the argument to the Archaeological Survey of India.

The top court turned down Rajneesh Singh’s plea regarding the Taj Mahal in October as well. Singh is the media coordinator for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJPAyodhya )’s unit. Singh demanded that 22 Taj Mahal halls and suites be made accessible. He also asked for a fact-finding group to investigate into the monument’s past.

The Supreme Court dismissed Singh’s case on October 21 and warned the BJP leader against submitting petitions in a “casual” way, referring to it as a “publicity interest litigation.”

Supreme Court dismisses plea to open rooms in Taj Mahal

October 21, 2022, 3:30 pm

The Supreme Court on Friday junked a plea seeking the opening of 22 rooms in the Taj Mahal to enquire into the monument’s history.

A bench of Justices MR Shah and MM Sundresh termed the plea a “publicity interest litigation”. The bench said, “The High Court was not in error in dismissing the petition, which is more of a publicity interest litigation”. Dismissed.”

The petition was filed by one Rajneesh Singh, who claimed to be the media in-charge of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Ayodhya unit, seeking a direction to the government to constitute a fact-finding committee and to look for important historical evidence like idols and inscriptions that are believed to be hidden inside the Taj Mahal on the orders of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. The High Court dismissed his plea on 12 May.

He had contended that several Hindu right-wing outfits had claimed in the past that the Mughal-era mausoleum was a temple of Lord Shiva known as’ Tejo Mahalaya’, a theory that was supported by many historians as well.

He also said that there are 22 rooms situated in the upper and lower portions of the four-storied building of the Taj Mahal that are permanently locked, and historians like PN Oak and many Hindu worshippers believe that a Shiva temple lies in those rooms.