The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), under the Ministry of Culture, is the premier organization for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation. Maintenance of ancient monuments and archaeological sites and remains of national importance is the prime concern of the ASI.

They have over 3693 monuments under their supervision and have been actively looking for solutions to digitize and archive these historical monuments. Taj Mahal is One of the Seven Wonders of the World . Also spelled Tadj Mahall, the mausoleum complex is situated in Agra.

The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahān (reigned 1628–58) to immortalize his wife Mumtaz (“Chosen One of the Palace”), who died in childbirth in 1631, having been the emperor’s inseparable companion since their marriage in 1612. Taj Mahal is India’s most famous and widely recognized building. In its harmonious proportions and its fluid incorporation of decorative elements, the Taj Mahal is distinguished as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles. Other attractions include twin mosque buildings (placed symmetrically on either side of the mausoleum), lovely gardens, and a museum.

Challenge

Being Over 500 years the site is deteriorating over time due to weather conditions, pollution and human intervention. ASI is doing its best to preserve the site but they were also looking for a solution to digitize and archive the Taj Mahal and ensure it is available to future generations. Introduced to ASI by The Indian Ambassador to Norway Dr.B.Bala Bhasker, Piql along with their plugin digitization partners from Slovakia Studio 727 presented a complete solution to scan, digitize and archive the Mousoleum.

Solution

Piql along with its partner sent a team to digitize Taj Mahal and it took over two week to scan the main areas of the 42 acre site. The processed data which has 3D Images, VR, Photographs, Videos, Geo Data points and other details will now be preserved on piqlFilm, a secure and long lasting offline storage medium and will be physically stored in the Arctic World Archive, an offline data vault that ensures the most sensitive and irreplaceable data is protected for the future, located deep inside a mountain on the arctic island of Svalbard, Norway. This vault is one of the safest locations in the world for storing data as it is built to endure the test of time, safe from natural and man-made disasters.

Data stored here can last for centuries with guaranteed future accessibility. Ensuring that the valuable data stored is safely carried on into the distant future for the benefit of future generations.

One of the 7 Wonders of the World , Taj Mahal is considered among the most beautiful structural compositions in the world. The Taj Mahal is also one of the world’s most iconic monuments which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . being “the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage”. It is regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture and a symbol of India’s rich history. The Taj Mahal attracts more than 6 million visitors a year.

This unique architectural marvel is being digitized and pictures, 3D models, videos and other data of the monument will be kept in the AWA to ensure rebuilding, research , observe changes, and ensure that the future generations have a complete access to one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and for any restoration requirements in the future.