Agra, UTTAR PRADESH :

Mughal emperor Shah Jahan’s Urs (birth anniversary) celebrations are to begin from May 3. This is the only time of the year when the graves of the royal couple at Taj Mahal are opened to the public. An 870m multi-colour chadar, representing different religions, will be laid on the grave of the emperor. Entry to the white marble mausoleum Taj Mahal will be free for three days.

While on May 3 and 4 tourists entry will be free from 2pm to sunset. On the last day, May 5, entry will be free throughout the day. This will be Shah Jahan’s 361st birth anniversary celebrations which will begin with the washing of the graves of the emperor and his queen Mumtaz Mahal.

Every year Khuddam-e-roza (traditional caretakers of the Taj) committee offers a long multi-colour chadar, representing different faiths of the country, at the grave during Urs. Last year it was 810 metre. And this has been increased to 870 metre this year and will be offered on May 5, last day of the event. The unique thing about this offering is that the chadar is made by stitching pieces of cloths presented to the committee by people from different religions on fulfillment of their wishes. Moreover, the chadar starts its journey every year from a religious site, be it a temple, church or mosque.

According to committee member it is the seventh generation which is offering the chadar at the Mughal emperor’s grave. The occasion of urs is chosen to spread message of communal harmony in the society.

Syed Munawwar Ali, president of Taj Mahal Masjid Intezamiya committee, said: “Following the age-old tradition, shehnai and qawwali sessions will be held on all the three days at the royal gate.”

A meeting of senior officials of CISF, UP police, district administration and Archaeological of Survey of India was held to discuss the arrangements made for the annual celebration.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / News Home> City> Agra / TNN / May 02nd, 2016