Barge Mahal floats into London on the Thames
By Ross Lydall, Evening Standard
Last updated at 11:12 18 July 2007
Hello London: The replica Taj passes the MI6 building in Vauxhall
A floating replica of the Taj Mahal was moving down the Thames today to launch a spectacular Indian festival in London.
The marble mausoleum has been recreated on a river barge to launch a three-month festival celebrating India's culture in advance of a visit by Mayor Ken Livingstone to the country in November.
Created by Bollywood film-set designer Bijon Das Gupta, the six metre-high metal and wood replica was making its way from Vauxhall Bridge, where it was built, to City Hall, where it is to be moored.
Mr Livingstone will visit Mumbai and Delhi to open two offices to boost links with one of the world's fastest growing economies.
His office is co-ordinating the India Now festival of 1,500 events, including a showcase in Trafalgar Square from 2 August that will cost £383,000.
Other highlights include appearances by Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan, whose new film Chak De India will premiere at Somerset House, and India's cricket captain Rahul Dravid.
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