podcastsinenglish Level 2.132 the Taj Mahal
Mar 16, 2017
Join Richard on a captivating journey to the Taj Mahal, where he dives into the site's breathtaking beauty and overwhelming visitor traffic. Discover the challenges of stealth videography amidst strict security measures. Learn about the intricate marble inlay work and the ongoing renovations that can be seen with scaffolding. Richard also raises alarms about the deteriorating wooden foundations due to a drying river, highlighting urgent conservation needs. His call to action? Visit this wonder before it's too late!
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Awe-Struck First Impression
- Richard describes visiting what he calls the most beautiful building in the world and his strong emotional reaction to it.
- He mentions famous praises and notes the Taj's huge tourist draw of about 3 million visitors a year.
Sneaking Around Tight Security
- Richard recounts sneaking video and speaking quietly because videography is banned at the site.
- He notes heavy security, shoe rules, and the marble's inlay of semi-precious stones up close.
Surface Care vs Structural Threat
- The Taj's surface restoration keeps it pristine but cannot fix deeper problems affecting its survival.
- Experts warn the wooden foundations are rotting as the nearby river dries, threatening eventual collapse.