07/12/2023
The Tejo Mahalaya Theory: A Controversial Perspective on the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic structures in the world, known for its stunning beauty and intricate design. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.
However, the Taj Mahal is also the subject of a controversial theory that it was originally a temple called Tejo Mahalaya. This theory was put forth by P.N. Oak, an Indian writer and journalist, in his 1989 book "Taj Mahal: The True Story". Oak was a self-taught historian and the founder of the Institute for Rewriting Indian History. In his book, he claimed the Taj Mahal was not a tomb constructed by Shah Jahan, but was instead an ancient temple palace of Lord Shiva (then known as Tejo Mahalaya), seized by Shah Jahan and adopted as a mausoleum.
While his theory has gained some attention and followers, mainstream historians and experts on Mughal architecture and history dismiss it, citing a lack of credible historical or archaeological evidence. It is important to note that most academics and experts agree on the widely accepted view of the Taj Mahal as a mausoleum built by Shah Jahan for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
The Origins of the Tejo Mahalaya Theory
The origins of the Tejo Mahalaya theory are complex and contested. Some believe that it originated with P.N. Oak, while others believe that it has a longer history. There is some evidence to suggest that the theory may have been circulating in India as early as the 19th century.
The Evidence for the Tejo Mahalaya Theory
The proponents of the Tejo Mahalaya theory argue that there are several architectural and historical elements that support the idea of the Taj Mahal having pre-Islamic origins. Some point to the presence of natural riverine channels and water bodies around the site, suggesting that it was more suited for a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. They also analyze certain inscriptions and symbols found inside the Taj Mahal, drawing connections to Hindu motifs and scriptures.
However, the evidence for the Tejo Mahalaya theory is largely circumstantial and inconclusive. There is no concrete evidence to suggest that the Taj Mahal was ever a temple. The inscriptions and symbols that have been cited as evidence can also be interpreted in other ways.
The Debunking of the Tejo Mahalaya Theory
The Tejo Mahalaya theory has been debunked by mainstream historians and archaeologists. They point out that there is no substantial evidence to support the theory, and that the architectural style of the Taj Mahal is distinctly Mughal. They also argue that it is unlikely that Shah Jahan would have destroyed a temple to build a mausoleum for his wife.
Quote from Giles Tillotson
"The Tejo Mahalaya theory is based on speculation and conjecture, and it should not be taken seriously." - Giles Tillotson, Professor of South Asian art history at SOAS University of London
Giles Tillotson is a leading expert on Mughal architecture and has written extensively on the Taj Mahal. He is a strong critic of the Tejo Mahalaya theory and has argued that there is no credible evidence to support it.
The Importance of Critical Thinking
It is important to approach the Tejo Mahalaya theory with critical thinking. While it is fascinating to explore alternative perspectives and theories, it is crucial to do so with a solid understanding of the evidence and the scholarly consensus. In the case of the Tejo Mahalaya theory, the evidence is largely circumstantial and inconclusive. The theory has been debunked by mainstream historians and archaeologists, and it is not widely accepted by the academic community.
Conclusion
The Tejo Mahalaya theory is a controversial one that has been debunked by historians and archaeologists. There is no credible evidence to support the claim that the Taj Mahal was originally a temple. The most widely accepted theory is that the Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
Points to remember
The name "Tejo Mahalaya" is a modern invention and was not used by the Mughals.
There is no historical evidence to suggest that Shah Jahan was a religious bigot. In fact, he was known for his tolerance of other religions.
The Tejo Mahalaya theory has been debunked by Giles Tillotson, a leading expert on Mughal architecture and history. Tillotson has argued that the theory is based on speculation and conjecture, and that there is no credible evidence to support it.
