A newly constructed white marble structure in Agra, completed after a 104-year-long endeavor, has become a significant attraction for spiritually inclined tourists visiting the city. Situated approximately 12 kilometers away from the iconic Taj Mahal, the mausoleum at Soami Bagh in Agra has been drawing large crowds of visitors on a daily basis.
Unlike the Taj Mahal, which was built over a span of 22 years by thousands of skilled artisans during the 17th century, the construction of the Soami Bagh mausoleum spanned more than a century. Built in an open society, the mausoleum stands as a testament to the unwavering faith, dedication, and fervor of its creators, driven by their religious beliefs.
Constructed entirely of white marble sourced from Makrana in Rajasthan, the 193-foot tall structure rests on a foundation of 52 wells. Dedicated to the founder of the Radha Soami faith, Param Purush Pooran Dhani Swamiji Maharaj, the mausoleum has become a popular destination for tourists exploring Agra.
Each day, numerous tourists visit the mausoleum to admire its grandeur and exquisite craftsmanship. Although entrance to the mausoleum is free, photography is not permitted inside. Visitors often compare the architectural marvel of the Soami Bagh mausoleum to the Taj Mahal, a world heritage monument that attracts thousands of tourists daily.
The construction process faced various challenges, including difficulties in procuring the right quality of marble and labor shortages due to skilled masons migrating to other countries. Despite these challenges, the artisans worked with intense devotion, employing both traditional craftsmanship and modern technology to bring the mausoleum to fruition.
While the Taj Mahal remains the primary attraction for visitors fascinated by its romance and architectural grandeur, the spiritually inclined are increasingly drawn to Soami Bagh, which offers both architectural marvel and a center for soul healing and solace. Although the promoters of the project refrain from comparing it to any other building, visitors continue to wonder whether the Taj Mahal has met its match in Agra.