Taj Mahal - The Marble Screen or Jali

A marble screen with eight sides encircles the cenotaphs in the central chamber. Called a "Jali" screen, the protective shield is so intricately carved with beautiful inlay work that it in no way looks as if it was built to guard the cenotaphs. Journals from foreign travellers state that the tomb of Mumtaz was earlier protected by a splendid gold railing encrusted with precious jewels. It was so breathtakingly beautiful that Shah Jahan eventually ordered to get it removed so as not to attract usurpers.

The jali screen entrance that leads to the cenotaphs

Carved with a single marble slab, the jali screens have exquisite floral patterns, so intricately carved that it almose seems like a woven mat from a distance. Light passes through these screens right up to the cenotaphs, following the Islamic tradition of belief that Light signifies Allah's presence.