What are some mind-blowing facts about Agra?

 Modern Facts about Agra

• After Delhi Agra is the only city in north India where more than 10 Five Star Hotels are running ( and yes they are earning a great profit)

• The pioneer of outsourcing in India and co-founder of Patni Computer Systems, Mr Narendra Patni was born in Agra.

• Motilal Nehru (6 May 1861 - 6 February 1931) ,born in Agra, was the president of Indian National Congress twice. He was a leading lawyer and a freedom fighter . Gave birth to the famous Nehru-Gandhi dynasty which saw 3 prime ministers of India.

• St. John’s College is almost 165 years old which is unique about this city.

Famous Agra University Alumni

• India’s current National Security Advisor (NSA) Mr Ajit Doval graduated with a master’s degree in Economics from Agra

Charan Singh aka Chaudhary Charan Singh was the sixth Prime Minister of the Republic of India,

• Agra is a largest shoes manufactuing hub in India and second largest exporter of shoes in the world after China.

• Agra is the second most self employed city after Varanasi in India.

• Kheria Airforce station is amongst the major Air defence stations in India.

• The Wildlife SOS Agra is the largest Sloth Bear Rescue Facility in the world.

All over the India, Agra is the first city to have Express Highway i.e. Yamuna Expressway. and the longest express way i.e. Agra- Lucknow Expressway.

Historical Facts

The Mughals captured legendary Shivaji Maharaja and kept him behind the bars in this mighty Fort. In addition to this, Shivaji Maharaj successfully managed to escape within the nose of enemies from this fort. Skilled sculptors have constructed a grand statue outside this fort to tout his mastermind strategy and execution of his plan.

• Agra remained the power center and capital of Mughal empire for most of it’s glorious period. Rajput Princess Heer Kunwari, commonly known and revered as Jodha Bai shifted to Agra from Jaipur after her marriage.

• Agra is linked to the Chauhan clan of the Hindu Rajputs.

• Agra has markets which are centuries old. People looking for some history visits this place.

• When Agra was the capital of India it had a GDP 4 times that of London.

• Petha is a famous, soft, translucent and sweet candy is originated in this city.

• One of the highly revered and historical Sikh pilgrimage site, Guru Ka Taal Gurudwara is situated in Agra. It is situated near a reservoir (taal) where the ninth Sikh Guru Sri Teg Bahadur offered voluntary arrest to Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.

• The famous 15th century poet Surdas was born in Agra

• The Famous Urdu poet Mirza Asadullah Beg Khan was born in Agra. He was also known as Mirza Ghalib.

• The RadhaSoami Satsang movement started in Agra in 1861and spread to the other parts of the wold. Later, it got divided into Hazuri Bhawan Lineage and Beas Lineage. Pictured below is the DAYALBAGH temple - the headquarter of Hazuri Bhawan Lineage.

• Agra is the only Indian city withthree UNESCO world heritage sites: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.

Taj mahal

Agra Fort

Fatehpur Sikri

Radha Swami Temple: A temple located in Agra in front of which even the Taj Mahal pales

Image Credit:- Gaurav Agarwal

Radha Swami Temple, also known as Dayalbagh Temple, is a breathtaking architectural masterpiece in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Built on the sacred Samadhi of Swamiji Maharaj, this temple is not just a place of worship but a symbol of divine artistry and devotion. While the Taj Mahal is often considered the epitome of beauty, the intricate craftsmanship and mesmerizing mosaic work of Radha Swami Temple make even the Taj pale in comparison.

Every year, on the occasion of Basant Panchami, thousands of followers of the Radha Swami sect from across the globe gather at this spiritual sanctuary. The temple, constructed entirely of pristine white marble, boasts unparalleled detailing that reflects an ethereal charm. What makes it even more astonishing is that despite being under construction for over a century, the temple continues to evolve, making it one of the longest-standing architectural projects in India.

A Glimpse into the History of Radha Swami Temple

The foundation of Radha Swami Temple was laid in April 1904, making it nearly 120 years old today. However, its construction spanned an incredible 114 years, with the temple being inaugurated in 2018. The present-day Dayalbagh and Swamibagh, covering an area of 1200 acres, were once barren sand dunes. It was the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of the Radha Swami followers that transformed this land into a lush, serene environment.

An Italian company was commissioned to design the temple’s blueprint, charging a sum of Rs 2 lakh for their exceptional craftsmanship. The temple's construction saw generations of laborers, not just workers but devoted followers of the Radha Swami sect. Many of them inherited their faith and dedication from their ancestors who first started working on the temple. This continuity of devotion and craftsmanship is what makes the temple so extraordinary.

At the temple’s entrance lies a sacred well, whose water is considered divine and is distributed as Prasad to devotees. The unwavering faith and spiritual significance attached to this temple make it a revered site for millions worldwide.

Why Radha Swami Temple Stands Out

Unmatched Architectural Brilliance: The white marble structure is adorned with intricate mosaic work, surpassing even the grandeur of the Taj Mahal.

Longest Ongoing Construction Project: Over 100 years and still in progress, symbolizing the endless devotion of Radha Swami followers.

Spiritual Significance: The temple stands as the epicenter of the Radha Swami sect, attracting thousands of devotees every year.

Historical Transformation: From a barren desert to a spiritual haven, Dayalbagh’s transformation is nothing short of miraculous.

Visit Radha Swami Temple – A Hidden Gem in Agra

If you're planning a visit to Agra, Radha Swami Temple is a must-see destination. While the Taj Mahal represents eternal love, this temple embodies eternal devotion and faith. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, Radha Swami Temple promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.

So, the next time you visit Agra, make sure to witness the grandeur of Radha Swami Temple – a true masterpiece that continues to stand the test of time!