‘Southern Taj Mahal’ in Tamil Nadu Draws Crowds as Son Builds Grand Memorial for His Mother

Thiruvarur, April 2026 : A striking monument inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal is drawing widespread attention in Tamil Nadu’s Thiruvarur district, where a businessman has built a grand tribute to his late mother. Popularly referred to as the “Southern Taj Mahal,” the structure has become a major attraction, pulling visitors from across the state and beyond.

Located in Ammayappan village near Thiruvarur, the memorial was constructed by Amurdeen, a 49-year-old businessman based in Chennai. He is the only son of Sheikh Davood and Jailani Beevi, and has four sisters, all of whom are settled in Chennai. After losing his father several years ago, Amurdeen faced another personal loss when his mother passed away in 2020.

Deeply moved by her passing, he decided to create a lasting tribute in her memory. Drawing inspiration from the grandeur of the Taj Mahal—built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife—Amurdeen envisioned a similar monument to express his love and respect for his mother.

He also cited inspiration from late DMK leader M. Karunanidhi, who had built a memorial for his mother Anjugam Ammaiyar. Motivated by these examples, Amurdeen set out to construct a structure that would stand as a symbol of filial devotion.

The monument, built using white marble sourced from Rajasthan, spans nearly one acre of land and covers approximately 8,000 square feet. It features a width of 46 feet and is adorned with elegant minarets, closely resembling Mughal architectural style. Despite its grandeur, the memorial was inaugurated quietly on June 2, 2022, in a simple ceremony.

Beyond its architectural appeal, the complex also serves a social and religious purpose. It includes a memorial mosque dedicated to his mother, a larger mosque building, and a madrasa where students can reside and pursue their studies. This blend of memorial and community space has added to its significance.

For many visitors, the “Southern Taj Mahal” offers a rare opportunity to witness a Taj-inspired structure without traveling to North India. It is believed to be the first white-marble monument of its kind in South Tamil Nadu, making it a unique destination.

Since its opening, the site has attracted thousands of visitors. With schools currently closed for summer vacations, footfall has surged further, with families arriving in large numbers from different parts of Tamil Nadu and other states.

To ensure visitors are comfortable in the heat, the management provides free refreshments such as buttermilk, sundal, and peanut candy. The inclusive nature of the site has also been widely appreciated, as people from all communities are welcomed without any discrimination based on caste or religion.

Visitors often spend time taking photographs and admiring the craftsmanship, especially those who may never get the chance to visit Agra. Many have praised Amurdeen’s effort, calling it a heartfelt and inspiring gesture.

The “Southern Taj Mahal” stands today not just as an architectural marvel, but as a touching symbol of a son’s enduring love and gratitude for his mother, resonating deeply with all who visit.