A new Bollywood film, The Taj Story, directed by Tushar Goel, has sparked debate by questioning the official history of the Taj Mahal. Released in October 2025, the film portrays India’s symbol of love as a mirror of contemporary divides, blending historical reinterpretation with political undertones.
Inside the announcement
According to CNN, Egypt Independent, and CyprusNews.eu, the film follows a veteran tour guide whose faith in the Taj Mahal’s timeless love story is shaken. Scenes include provocative suggestions like conducting a DNA test on the monument, symbolizing the clash between myth, history, and modern skepticism. The film has drawn sharp reactions, with some praising its boldness while others criticize it for distorting heritage.
Notable updates
• The Taj Story released in October 2025, directed by Tushar Goel
• Central character: tour guide Vishu Das, questioning the authenticity of the Taj narrative
• Film challenges the accepted story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal’s eternal love
• Critics argue it risks politicizing a cultural monument, while supporters hail it as thought-provoking art
• The Taj Mahal, visited by millions annually, remains a UNESCO World Heritage site and India’s most iconic tourist attraction
Major takeaway
By reframing the Taj Mahal’s legacy, The Taj Story highlights how monuments can become battlegrounds for identity and belief. The film’s controversy underscores the tension between preserving cultural heritage and reinterpreting history in modern India.
Sources: CNN, Egypt Independent, CyprusNews.eu, Mezha News