
In Uttar Pradesh's Agra, a new white marble structure built in over 100 years is witnessing a large number of footfalls daily and tourists are now drawing comparisons between the newly-constructed mausoleum of the founder of the Radha Soami sect in Soami Bagh to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. Let's take a look at some of the key features of Soami Bagh. (Image: Saomi Bagh/Facebook)

The mausoleum in Soami Bagh is situated at a distance of around 12 km from the Taj Mahal. This pristine white marble structure has left many in awe of its grandeur and adds to the architectural splendour of Agra, which is known for its Mughal-era monuments. (Image: Saomi Bagh/Facebook)

While the Taj Mahal was completed within 22 years during the 17th century, the construction of the Soami Bagh mausoleum extends to over a century within an open society. (Image: Shutterstock)

The mausoleum's architectural design is not bound by any specific style, however, its conception leans towards oriental influences. Its 31.4-foot gold-plated pinnacle is said to be taller than that of the Taj Mahal. It took years of effort and a crane from Delhi for its installation due to challenges in sourcing marble. As per reports, while the marble used in the monument came from Makrana and Jodhpur, the mosaic stone is from Nowshera, Pakistan, and semi-precious stones from Indian riverbeds. (Image: Saomi Bagh/Facebook)

The mausoleum rests on a foundation of 52 wells and is 193-foot high. It has been entirely crafted from white marble sourced from Makrana in Rajasthan. The structure is still not complete as some minor additions are yet to be made to it, according to reports. (Image: Saomi Bagh/Facebook)

While the original samadhi was a basic white sandstone structure, construction on a new design by an architect from Allahabad started back in 1904. Despite multiple delays, several people have been working tirelessly since 1922, primarily by hand, on the expansive and intricately adorned construction. (Image: Saomi Bagh/Facebook)