The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631 while giving birth to their 14th child. It was meant to be an earthly replica of her celestial abode in paradise, symbolizing eternal love and devotion. Construction began in 1632 and was substantially complete by 1648, with the complex finished by 1653. The Taj Mahal is not only a monument to love but also a symbol of solemnity, harmony, purity, and spirituality.