Agra is set to host the 371st Urs (death anniversary) of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan at the Taj Mahal from January 15 to 17, 2026, drawing devotees and visitors from across the country. The highlight of the event will be the offering of a 1,720-metre-long Hindustani Satrangi Chadar on January 17 at Shah Jahan’s grave.
Prepared by the Khuddam-e-Roza committee with contributions from people of all faiths, the multicoloured ceremonial cloth symbolises communal harmony. Its length has increased from 1,640 metres last year to 1,720 metres this year.
For the three-day celebration, the graves of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, usually restricted in the monument’s crypt, will be opened to the public. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has announced free entry for all visitors: from 2:00 PM until sunset on January 15 and 16, and throughout the day on January 17.
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The ritual schedule begins with Ghusl, the ceremonial cleaning of the graves, on January 15, followed by the Sandal ceremony and special prayers on January 16. Despite being the monument’s regular weekly closure day, Friday will remain open for the Urs. The final day will feature Chadar Poshi, Quranic recitations, and distribution of langar, or community meals.
Authorities have implemented enhanced security measures by CISF and ASI due to expected heavy crowds. Visitors are prohibited from carrying banners, flags, posters, drums exceeding 36 inches, or tobacco products inside the complex. No tickets or pre-booking are required during the free-entry hours, ensuring the celebrations are accessible to all who wish to participate.
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