A Heartfelt Tribute: The Southern Taj Mahal in Tamil Nadu
A Unique Memorial in Thiruvarur
Photo: IANS
Thiruvarur, April 27: A remarkable monument, born from a son's profound affection for his mother, is attracting numerous visitors in Tamil Nadu's Thiruvarur. People from various regions of the country are flocking to see this “Southern Taj Mahal.”
Located in Ammayappan village near Thiruvarur, Sheikh Davood and Jailani Beevi had one son, Amurdeen (49), who works as a businessman in Chennai, along with four married daughters residing in the city.
After the death of his father, Sheikh Davood, several years ago, Amurdeen's mother, Jailani Beevi, passed away in 2020.
In her memory, Amurdeen envisioned a grand memorial in Ammayappan village. Inspired by the late DMK leader M. Karunanidhi's tribute to his mother Anjugam Ammaiyar in Kattur village, he sought to honor his mother similarly.
He expressed that just as the Taj Mahal was constructed out of love for a cherished wife, he aimed to create a monument that reflects his love and respect for his mother. Thus, he opted for Mughal-style architecture, using white marble sourced from Rajasthan.
Spanning nearly one acre and covering about 8,000 square feet, the structure boasts a width of 46 feet and features impressive minarets. This “Southern Taj Mahal” was inaugurated on June 2, 2022, during a modest ceremony.
The complex comprises a memorial mosque for his mother, a grand mosque on one side, and a madrasa on the other, providing accommodation and education for students.
As not everyone can visit Delhi or Agra to see the original Taj Mahal, this monument stands as the first white-marble Taj Mahal-style structure in South Tamil Nadu.
Since its inauguration, the site has welcomed thousands of enthusiastic visitors.
With schools now closed for summer vacation, even more families from Tamil Nadu and beyond are visiting.
To assist visitors in managing the summer heat, the management offers complimentary buttermilk, sundal, and peanut candy.
People from all communities are welcomed without any discrimination based on caste or religion.
Visitors are joyfully capturing family photos and relishing the experience, especially those who may never have the chance to visit Agra.
Many are commending Amurdeen for his extraordinary tribute to his mother, showcasing love and respect through this remarkable monument.