Agra: 371st Urs of Shah Jahan begins at Taj Mahal

The 371st Urs of Emperor Shah Jahan began at the Taj Mahal in Agra on Thursday.

The three-day Urs commenced with the ritual of ‘Ghusl’ (ritual bathing) on the first day. At 2 PM on Thursday, the crypt of the Taj Mahal, which houses the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, was opened.

Advertisement

Members of the Urs Committee, officials from the Archaeological Survey of India, and CISF personnel were present inside the crypt. Rosewater was sprinkled on the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, followed by the offering of a sheet of rose petals.

Prayers were offered, and blessings for peace and harmony across the country were sought. The ‘Sandal’ ceremony will be held on the second day of the Urs, but the grandest event will take place on the third day. On the third day, a 1720-foot-long Chadar will be offered.

During the three-day Urs, entry to the Taj Mahal will be free for all tourists from 2 PM onwards on the first day. Entry will also be free from 2 PM on the second day, but on the third day, entry will be free for all tourists from sunrise to sunset.

A large number of pilgrims and tourists from around the world are expected to visit the Taj Mahal during the Urs.