Book Review: Taj Mahal – A Hindu Temple by Krishnadas Dey

 Published By: TIMELINE PUBLICATION

Author: Krishnadas Dey

Rating: 4.5/5

Taj Mahal – A Hindu Temple by Krishnadas Dey is a thought-provoking book that delves into the ongoing debate about the origins of the Taj Mahal. The book, structured into 18 chapters, presents a collection of facts and arguments surrounding the claim that the Taj Mahal was originally a Hindu temple known as Agreshwar Mahadev Mandir and not a mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The book is concise yet packed with intriguing insights, making it an engaging read for those interested in historical debates.

Summary and Structure

The book is neatly organized into 18 chapters, each focusing on different aspects of the Taj Mahal's origin. Some of the notable chapters include:

• How Taj Mahal Got Its Name
• Carbon Test
• Archeological Evidence
• Testimony and Evidence
• Architect of the Taj

These chapters attempt to provide scientific, historical, and anecdotal evidence supporting the idea that the Taj Mahal predates Shah Jahan’s era and was originally a Shiva temple. The book presents arguments using carbon dating, architectural analysis, and eyewitness testimonies. One of its unique aspects is that it is written in both Bengali and English, making it accessible to a broader audience.

What I Liked About the Book

• Engaging Writing Style – The author’s writing is clear and engaging, making it easy for readers to follow the arguments without feeling overwhelmed. The logical flow of ideas ensures that the reader remains interested throughout.
• Presentation of Facts – The book presents its claims in a well-structured manner, encouraging readers to analyze the evidence themselves. The arguments are backed by historical data, making them more compelling.
• Bilingual Approach – Having both Bengali and English in the same book makes it more inclusive for readers who prefer either language. This also makes it accessible to a wider audience, ensuring that more people can engage with the subject matter.
• Well-Written English Sections – The English portions of the book are well-articulated, making it accessible to an international audience. The language is simple yet effective, ensuring that readers from various backgrounds can understand the content.
• Argumentative Yet Thoughtful – While the book challenges mainstream historical narratives, it does so without targeting any specific community, making it a more intellectual rather than provocative discourse. It encourages critical thinking without being divisive.
• Cover Design – The cover page is eye-catching, featuring a fusion of the Taj Mahal, Lord Shiva’s figure with a Trishul, and a Shiv Linga, effectively symbolizing the book’s central argument. This creative design immediately captures the reader’s attention and gives an idea of what to expect inside.
• Consistency with the Author’s Style – I have previously read Krishnadas Dey’s Gandhi and His Hypocrisy, and I appreciate that this book maintains the same compelling writing style. His ability to present controversial topics in an engaging manner makes his work stand out.

At just 92 pages, the book feels too brief. Given the depth of the topic, I expected a more extensive exploration like the author’s other book on Gandhi. The subject matter is complex and deserves a more detailed discussion, perhaps with additional sources and expert opinions. Additionally, while the book raises valid points, a deeper analysis with more sources and counterarguments could have strengthened its claims. Some arguments, while interesting, could benefit from more substantial evidence to reinforce their validity. Overall, a longer, more detailed version of the book would have added more credibility and depth to the subject.

Final Thoughts

Taj Mahal – A Hindu Temple by Krishnadas Dey is a concise yet intriguing read for anyone interested in alternative historical perspectives. It presents its arguments with clarity, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with the debate. However, the brevity of the book leaves the reader wanting more. If you enjoy historical controversies and well-structured arguments, this book is worth a read.

Would I recommend it? Yes, especially for those curious about historical reinterpretations and alternative viewpoints. However, if you’re looking for a deeply academic analysis, this might feel too brief. Nonetheless, it is an eye-opening book that encourages readers to question established narratives and think critically about history.