INDIA CROSSING THE RIVER GANGES The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum complex built by Shah Jahan (reg. 1628 - 1658) in memory of his favorite wife; Arjumand Banu Begam (d.1631); better known by her title "Mumtaz Mahal; or ; the exalted one of the palace." The construction of the complex began shortly after Mumtaz's death; and accounts of this process were popularized by foreign travelers who visited Mughal courts. The tomb's fame increased tremendously following the British occupation of India in the late 18th century. The Taj Mahal complex is organized in a rectangle; measuring approximately 310 x 550 meters. It comprises a number of buildings and structures; all functioning together as the funerary monument for Mumtaz Mahal. From the south; the first part of the complex consists of a (former) bazaar; the forecourt and entry gates; the second part consists of a large garden and garden pavilions; axially arranged along a riverfront terrace with the three main structures: the mosque; the mausoleum and the mihmankhana (literally; "guest house,"; probably used as an assembly hall).