Tejo Mahalaya Shiva Temple
Tejo Mahalaya is a controversial theory that suggests that the Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic landmarks in India, was originally a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva, rather than a mausoleum b
Aditya Pandey

Tejo Mahalaya is a controversial theory that suggests that the Taj Mahal, one of the most iconic landmarks in India, was originally a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva, rather than a mausoleum built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The theory is based on various architectural and historical analyses, as well as a number of legends and myths associated with the Taj Mahal.
Proponents of the theory argue that the Taj Mahal's architecture and design bear striking similarities to Hindu temple architecture, including its foundation, layout, and the presence of several Hindu symbols and motifs. They also point to historical records that suggest the site was originally known as "Tejo Mahalaya," which they claim was a reference to a Shiva temple that stood on the site before it was demolished by the Mughals.
However, the theory is highly controversial and has been widely disputed by scholars and historians, who argue that there is no credible evidence to support the claim that the Taj Mahal was originally a Hindu temple. They point to the abundance of historical records that describe the Taj Mahal as a mausoleum built by Shah Jahan, as well as the absence of any archaeological evidence that suggests the presence of a temple on the site before the Taj Mahal was built.
Despite the controversy, the Tejo Mahalaya theory continues to be a popular topic of debate among scholars, historians, and the general public in India and around the world.
History of Tejo Mahalaya
The Taj Mahal is an ivory-white marble mausoleum located in the city of Agra in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who had died during the birth of their 14th child.
Construction of the Taj Mahal took over 20 years and employed thousands of artisans, architects, and laborers from across the Mughal Empire and beyond. The design of the monument is a blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles, with intricate carvings, intricate calligraphy, and delicate inlay work featuring precious stones such as lapis lazuli, jade, and turquoise.