Nasheed refuses to visit Taj Mahal without Laila

Speaker of Parliament, former President Mohamed Nasheed says he decided to take a pass on touring the Taj Mahal during his upcoming official visit to India because his spouse, Laila Ali wouldn’t be there to enjoy the tour of the famous symbol of love with him.

Speaking during the parliamentary sitting last Saturday, Nasheed said that activities on the agenda for the upcoming India trip included a tour of many of its historical sites, but that he had decided against touring the Taj Mahal. He did not specify the reason.

Nasheed was asked about his decision during last Saturday night’s episode of the Parliament’s Ask Speaker.

He responded that he declined to take part in the tour of Taj Mahal because his spouse, Laila Ali wouldn’t be with him during the visit.

“Let me tell you something, it’s because Laila won’t be able to accompany me there. That’s why. I don’t want to go there without her,” said Nasheed.

He didn’t elaborate any further.

15 delegates from the Parliament, including Speaker Nasheed, parliamentary representatives of all political parties, the Secretary-General and the Counsel-General are scheduled to visit India from December 9-13.

While Nasheed has made numerous visits to India both during his administration and after, there is no record of a visit to the Taj Mahal – an ivory white marble mausoleum commissioned by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his favorite spouse, Mumthaz Mahal.

Nasheed and Laila got married on March 14, 1993. They celebrated their 25-year anniversary this year and have two children together.

Taj Mahal remains a symbol of love and is one of the seven wonders of the world.