Agra, Feb 15 : The world famous Taj Mahal is being given special mudpack treatment to rid it off dirt and grime accumulated over the years.

The mega project has been undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

It was subjected to similar treatment in 2001, but only in patches.

Around 150 artisans will give the structure a mixture of chemicals and Fuller's earth or Multani Mitti.

Once the paste dries up, it falls off, bringing along with it all the dust and grime.

The exercise is expected to take around six months to complete, and visitors to the monument hope the pale monument will regain its white sheen.

"They have started it very late. This is a step towards improving its appearance," said K.N. Sharma, a tourist.

The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shahjahan as a symbol of his enduring love for his wife, Mumtaz in the 17th century.

It was built by an army of 20,000 stone masons, gem cutters, marble fitters and labourers, who toiled for 22 years.

ANI