Mystery of the Taj Mahal’s Sealed Rooms: What’s Inside?

Controversies surrounding religious and historical structures often emerge in India, and the Taj Mahal is no exception. A fresh debate has reignited regarding the monument, with some claiming it was originally a Hindu temple, others insisting it was a Shiva temple, and a few referring to it as “Tejo Mahal.” A petition has been filed demanding the opening of 22 locked rooms within the Taj Mahal to uncover whether they contain any religious idols or inscriptions. This has sparked curiosity about what truly lies behind these sealed chambers.

Why Have These Rooms Been Closed for Decades?

The 22 locked rooms of the Taj Mahal have remained a mystery for several decades. According to historians, these rooms are located beneath the main mausoleum and the jasmine floor. They have been inaccessible since the Mughal era and were last opened in 1934 for a brief inspection before being sealed again. Two staircases leading to the Yamuna-facing side of the Taj Mahal have also been blocked off with iron grilles, further limiting access to these chambers.

Hidden Structures Inside the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal’s marble structure features several rooms on its first floor, with two staircases leading up to them. These staircases have reportedly been shut since the reign of Shah Jahan. The marble walls and flooring of these upper chambers remain visible, but access remains restricted.

Many experts believe that the rooms in the Taj Mahal’s basement are constructed of pure marble. Some theorists suggest that prolonged exposure to carbon dioxide in the basement could cause the marble to undergo a chemical reaction, turning it into calcium carbonate. This process can gradually weaken the structure, causing the marble to deteriorate into powder, which is why these chambers remain sealed—to protect the Taj Mahal from structural damage.

Will the Taj Mahal’s Secret Rooms Ever Be Opened?

While curiosity continues to grow, authorities maintain that keeping the rooms closed is necessary for the monument’s preservation. Whether these chambers hold ancient artifacts, inscriptions, or merely serve as architectural elements of the Taj Mahal, the mystery surrounding them remains unsolved.