Jubilant residents of Agra today greeted the plaque declaring Taj Mahal a new wonder of the world.
Agra, July 10 : Jubilant residents of Agra today greeted the plaque declaring Taj Mahal a 'new wonder' of the world.
The plaque declaring the newfound status of Taj Mahal among the new Seven Wonders of the World was brought by the Mayor of the City, Anjula Singh, who represented India at the announcement ceremony in Portugal.
Anjula Singh, who received the plaque from actor Ben Kingsley and Bipasha Basu in Lisbon, was welcomed home by joyous crowds amid the beating of drums.
"On this occasion, Indian culture and art have been given recognition. The monument of love, Taj Mahal, has got its recognition. The public of Agra have maintained the beauty of the place," said Anjula.
Rajesh Tiwari, President of the Federation of the Travels Association, Agra, said that the people of Agra should make a collective effort to beautify the city.
"We need to keep our city clean and tidy. We should have all the necessary infrastructure and civic facilities, so that we can reap the benefits, we have got from this honour," Tiwari said.
According to the organizers of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the contest was a chance to level the global cultural playing field and recognize the achievements of societies outside Europe and the Middle East.
However, critics including the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), have said the world wonders should not be chosen in a popular vote.
The seven winners were announced at a glitzy show at the Benfica stadium in Lisbon on July 7.
ANI