Barge Mahal floats in for London's festival of India
A floating replica of the Taj Mahal was moving down the Thames 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.
