Taj Mahal inspires ‘awe’
United States President Donald Trump and the first lady Milania walked hand-in-hand on the manicured lawns of the 16th century mausoleum – Taj Mahal – which is known as the monument of love and one of the seven wonders of the world. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.
“The Taj Mahal inspires awe. A timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture. Thank you, India,” President Trump wrote in the visitors’ book as he entered into the Taj complex.
They were taken on a guided tour of the monument for an hour. Many guides were screened for the Trumps; three were short-listed and only one made it, officials say.
The Trumps enjoyed the magnificent monument in the glow of the sun-set alone as the complex completely cleared of any other visitor or staff.
The couple stood before the Taj for a few moments silently. At this very point, a flock of birds appeared before them and quickly flew away.
Half-way to the monument,
Trump – who once owned a casino in Atlantic City named Taj Mahal – and First Lady stopped at the famous marble bench where most foreign dignitaries and visitors pose.
Trump’s daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner and other American delegates were behind keeping a good distance from the first couple. Ivanka was seen handing her mobile phone to a photographer for a click.
"The grandeur and beauty of the Taj Mahal is awe-inspiring!" Ivanka wrote as she shared on Instagram pictures of herself with husband Jared Kushner in front of the Taj Mahal.
Earlier, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandi Ben Patel received the US guests on the airport as groups of artists showcased dance forms at the airstrip.
The American President was allowed to drive far closer to the monument in his armoured car ‘Beast’ than allowed by the Supreme Court, which had ordered that only battery-operated vehicles would be allowed near the Taj for its protection.