Agra, known as the Mughal city, is making efforts to shift its identity to a "hub of Shiva temples" with the ongoing annual event 'Agra Beyond Taj' featuring the 'Chronology of Shiv Temples in Agra and Bateshwar'. The Yogi Adityanath government of Uttar Pradesh has also changed the name of a metro station to Sri Mankameshwar as part of this shift. The organizers hope to highlight Agra's rich Hindu cultural traditions and relics, with some even claiming that the Taj Mahal was a Rajput Shiva temple.
The 32nd edition of the Taj Mahotsav, a celebration of crafts, culture, and community spirit, is set to begin on February 17. With over 400 legendary artisans, cultural performances, and food fairs, the festival aims to immerse visitors in the essence of India’s cultural diversity. Under the theme of "Sanskriti and Samriddhi," the event will showcase a plethora of folk and classical music and dance performances, transporting visitors to the bygone eras of Brij Bhumi.