The Taj Mahal: A Multicultural Synthesis

and include chhatris (elements that top towers, usually with a dome), guldastas (flower-like elements), and the use of an inverted lotus to decorate the tops of the structures. A European element that would be much less noticeable would be the popular flowering plant motif that was borrowed from engravings for European herbals.

It may not be so obvious at first sight, especially when that first sight tends to be so overwhelming, but the Taj Mahal represents a fusion of many different cultures. Rather than completely subjugate and eradicate the Pre-Islamic culture of India, early Mughal rulers like Akbar chose instead to assimilate. Although that may not have lasted, those attempts are apparent in the architecture; especially monuments like the Taj Mahal, which today appeals to so many cultures. If that kind of synthesis were as easily accomplished in reality as it is in architecture then the world would be a very different and much more beautiful place.

SOME INTERNET LINKS:

To learn more about the garden read Kirk Johnson's articleThe Garden of the Taj Mahal

The Majestic Taj Mahal- A Project Compiled By: Saumya Lashkari

For an alternate view visit Who Really Built The Taj Mahal?

Pics of the Taj Mahal Multiple Views of The Taj Mahal

CLICK ON THE ABOVE GRAPHIC TO RETURN TO THE BEAUTY OF ISLAM EVENT PAGE

Go To Page: 1 2 3

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic