New Delhi: A recent video making the rounds on Instagram has stirred up debate about security and restricted spaces inside the Taj Mahal. The short clip, which quickly gained traction online, seems to give viewers a rare look at the inner chamber of the monument, an area normally closed off to the public.

The recording appears to uncover a passageway leading to the actual tombs of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Unlike the cenotaphs, which are symbolic replicas on display for visitors, these are believed to be the original graves housed within the monument’s depths. The footage is accompanied by the Bollywood song ‘Jo Wada Kiya’, adding to its emotional tone.

Although in earlier years this section was open to visitors, today tourists are only allowed to view the cenotaphs. The genuine tombs remain sealed, both to preserve the sanctity of the site and to protect the structure, which has stood since the 17th century.

How did the person enter?

Social media users were quick to wonder how the person managed to get into the space. The identity of the person who filmed the video remains unknown, and the incident has unsettled conservationists. Experts warn that such unauthorised entries could potentially harm the preservation of this world-famous monument.

The Taj Mahal continues to be India’s leading tourist attraction and one of the Archaeological Survey of India’s major sources of income. Official figures reveal it generated ₹297 crore in ticket sales over the past five years. In the financial year 2023–24 alone, it brought in far more than Delhi’s Qutub Minar and the Red Fort combined.

What security measures are in place?

Concerns over increasing security risks have already prompted tighter measures at the site. Authorities recently put in place an anti-drone system capable of blocking signals within 200 metres of the central dome.

Confirming the deployment, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Taj Security) Syed Arib Ahmad said the system now supports the security already managed by CISF and Uttar Pradesh Police personnel.