The story behind the Taj Mahal

Long ago in India, there was a prince named Kurram. Kurram lived the life of an average prince, he was educated in the arts. sciences, mathematics, and other subjects. He was a skilled hunter and had a quick and eager man. One day while shopping in the market, his eye was caught by a girl named Arjumand. It was love at first sight, and he knew that she would be the woman he would marry. Although she wasn't a princess, the royal court saw the love in Kurram's eyes, and allowed the marrage. They were soon thrown one of the most elegant weddings anyone had ever seen. The king loved Arjumand so much, that he decided to bestow the honor of a knew name on her. He called her Mumtaz Mahal, or jewel of the palace.The couple lived happily married for many years, and Mumtaz Mahal gave birth to many children. Kurram loved his kids like he loved his wife. He would buy little balls full if sand, water,and air to teach them about the elements, and strings of gems to teach them about the planets. At night, he would sit by their bedside and tell them stories to lull them to sleep. Unlike many other Indian rulers, who often married many wives, he stayed loyal to Mumtaz Mahal . Like his love, Kurram's army's were unstoppable. He charged into many unknown lands, and conquered anyone who crossed his path. And every time he returned, Mumtaz Mahal was always there to greet him. As he set out for what would soon be another victory, Mumtaz Mahal approached him and begged him to take her. Announcing she was pregnant, Kurram decided to let her come along. Kurram's troops fought hard everyday, and in the midst of the battle, Kurram recived news, Mumtaz had given birth to a baby girl. He was told by the physician that she was weak, and she must rest. That night, Kurram was summoned by a messenger. Mumtaz was dying. As the couple wept, Mumtaz managed to mumer her final words to her husband. Se wanted the world to know of their love, and Kurram promised that he would do everything in his power to make it so. Kurram was heartbroken. He didn't eat or drink for eight days straight, and spent every moment agonizing over the loss of his beloved Mumtaz. One night, he dreamed of her in an illuminant white walled palace. When he woke, he knew what to do. Kurram sent messengers all over the world to fetch the greatest architects, caligraphers, and artists to his court. He sent for marble, jade, crystal, lapis and luzili, coral and gems from countries hundreds of miles away. "The tomb must be perfect, like heaven and earth combined." After many years, the tomb was finished. "It is more then beautiful, it is as perfect as our love." Exclaimed Kurram. The Building was called the Taj Mahal, He dreamed that someday when he died, there would be an identical tomb made of black marble constructed across from this to hold his body. "Then, our hearts will finally be at peace." But soon, his son Arangze took over, locking his father away to not create competition. Kurram knew that his black tomb would never be built. A great sadness took over him, but then he remembered why the Taj Mahal had been built. He knew that he had fulfilled his final promise to his beloved Mumtaz Mahal, and eight years later, he died a happy man.