Agra, Jan. 15 -- 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.
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 ...