How Taj Mahal Was Camouflaged During India-Pak War Of 1971
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During India-Pakistan War of 1971, also known as the Bangladesh Liberation War, there were serious concerns about the neighbouring country targeting cultural landmarks in India.
Taj Mahal was camouflaged during the India-Pakistan war of 1971. Here’s how the wonder of the world was covered. (Representative image / PTI)
Fifty-four years after the devastating 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh, echoes of similar tension are resurfacing across the region. The recent Pahalgam terror attack has triggered a wave of fierce confrontations between India and Pakistan, beginning with the Indian Armed Forces launching strikes on terror camps across the border. This has been followed by escalating tensions along the International Border and the Line of Control, with Pakistan reportedly engaging in continuous cross-border firing over several nights.
In response, the Indian government has ramped up military activity, tightened security nationwide, placed border towns on high alert, and intensified security drills across the country.
However, this isn’t the first time India has responded with heightened security measures. A similar approach was taken back in 1971 during the war with Pakistan. In one of the most remarkable steps to safeguard national heritage, the iconic Taj Mahal was camouflaged to protect it from potential aerial bombings. But what exactly went into hiding one of the world’s most recognisable monuments?
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Taj Mahal Hidden In 1971
During the India-Pakistan War of 1971, also known as the Bangladesh Liberation War, there were serious concerns about the neighbouring country targeting cultural landmarks in India. It was on December 3, 1971, when Pakistan launched a surprise aerial attack on Indian military installations, striking several Indian Air Force bases in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Among the targeted bases was also the Kheria Airbase in Agra, significantly close to the iconic Taj Mahal. It triggered fears that Pakistan might also attack landmarks in India, including the Taj Mahal, to instill fear among the people and also locate the Kheria airbase. However, the government wasn’t ready to give it away so easily.
The very next day, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) decided to camouflage the monument, and the shining white marble, which was visible for miles, was hidden under massive jute tarps dyed green to blend with the surroundings. Lights around the monument were also switched off, while security around it was intensified.
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How Taj Mahal Was Covered
Over 598 kg of nails and 63 sewing needles were used to hold the cover in place. While foliage-like branches and brush covered the minarets, sand was spread over the marble floor to minimise the reflective surface. Additionally, lights around the monuments were turned off, security was beefed up, and tourists were asked to stay away for a while.
The cover was kept in place for the next few weeks. Similar initiatives were reportedly also taken at other heritage sites like the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and the Jaisalmer Fort.
Fast forward to today, and India is once again at the same phase, preparing for a war that could get even bigger than 1971.
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