Was the Taj Mahal Originally a Shiva Temple? Allahabad High Court Seeks Centre, ASI’s Response

A plea has been filed in the Allahabad High Court with an appointment of Advocate Commissioner to inspect Taj Mahal. In response to the plea, Rohit Ranjan Agarwal on Monday ordered the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Union government to submit their counter arguments in response to the plea.

What Is the Case About?

The petitioners have alleged that the Taj Mahal was a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Tejo Mahalaya. The petitioners wants court to research and find the truth behind the Taj Mahal.  

Why Are the Petitioners Seeking an Inspection?

According to the petition, the Taj Mahal was once an ancient Shiva temple called Tejo Mahalaya. The petitioners want the court to allow an inspection, along with photography and videography of the monument and not rely on the monument’s architectural features.

What Is the Background of the Taj Mahal Dispute?

The claims with the Taj Mahal started a long time ago. Back in 2015, Hari Shankar Jain and some other people filed a case in Agra. They wanted the court to hear their petition in which they claimed that the Taj Mahal was originally the Tejo Mahalaya temple. In 2017, petitioners moved an application asking appointment of an Advocate Commissioner to inspect, photograph and videograph the Taj Mahal. But in 2019, the court rejected the application. The Additional District Judge at Agra confirmed the decision on April 4, 2026. Not happy with the decision, the petitioners have now approached the Allahabad High Court. 

What Has the Allahabad High Court Said?

Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal has sent notices to the Centre and the Archaeological Survey of India(ASI). They have to file their replies to the petition. The court will hear the case after it gets responses from the Centre and the ASI.