Installation of audio guide system at Taj Mahal disappoints its lovers

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The installation work of an audio guide system in the corridor of India's famous monument to love, Taj Mahal, has created a sense of apprehension that it may get commercialized and lose the charm of its originality.

Agra Tourist Guide Association President Samsuddin Shah said the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has deliberately attempted to bring commercialisation in Taj Mahal by introducing the audio guide system.

"Earlier, all the commercialized activities like restaurants and book shops were stopped from taking place inside the Taj Mahal with an aim to preserve it from any ill effect. And today, people are deliberately trying to bring losses to the Taj whether through corridor or in any other way," Shah told reporters here on Tuesday.

"Now, they put doors or wall anywhere they want in premises of Taj. So, when will this 'jungle raj' end?" he asked.

Lovers of this historical monument, which is the pinnacle of Mughal architecture, complained that such commercial activities would lead to the loss of originality of the monument.

The Superintending Archaeologist of Agra, Indu Dhar Dwivedi, on the other hand said the aim to set up audio guide system in the Taj's corridor is to serve the tourists with pieces of information about the monument and the Indian culture.

"Right now, the work is at initial stage. The work has been put on striking point (at corridor) so that the service can come in the view of people and it can be registered that we have added facility for tourists. The work is moving forward in segments to render it services," said Dwivedi.

"It is on regular share basis. There are normal charges for services like public convenience and other. So, the department has tried to start the project on no profit and no loss basis," he added.

Sugam Anand, Professor of History in Bhim Rao Ambedkar University, said the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) should review its decision.

"I think ASI should correct it. The place should be restored to its original form. The counter can be shifted to anywhere outside the forecourt of the Taj Mahal," he said.

Taj Mahal, which was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife Mumtaz Mahal, is widely considered as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and stands as a symbol of eternal love.