SC gives nod for cultural complex near Taj

Apart from an 18-ft scale model of the Taj at the centre, the complex is designed to hold a planetarium and cultural centre, designed in Mughal architecture, gardens, musical fountains and other attractions over several acres of area. The Taj model, its planners say, would host a light and sound show for foreign tourists wishing to know more about the history of Agra.

The original plan also intends to artificially recreate the interesting play of sun rays on the white marble of the Taj at sunset and sunrise. Meanwhile, the auditorium on the grounds would stage ballets and plays on the Mughal era.

The Agra tourism industry believes the construction of the complex would encourage foreigners to spend a night in Agra, pushing the right now miserable figures up 40 per cent. At least 90 per cent of the foreign tourists who visit Agra currently prefer to go back to Delhi or move on to Jaipur before nightfall.

Prahlad Agarwal, Convener of the Foreign Tourist Traders’ and Exporters’ Association, told The Indian Express that the project is destined to breathe a new life into the tourism trade of Agra.

The man behind the idea of the Kalakruti Complex, Ashok Jain, Managing Director of Oswal Traders & Travels Pvt Ltd and the owner of Orchha resorts, says he first decided to build one near the Taj while designing an auditorium and cultural complex for the MP government in Khajuraho.

He believes foreign tourists coming to Agra also wish to understand its historical background and experience the culture that existed there during the Mughal times.