In ancient times, rulers of kingdoms would cut off the hands of skilled artisans to prevent them from creating similar extraordinary works for others. After the Taj Mahal was completed, Shah Jahan ordered the hands of the masons cut off so the masterpiece could not be recreated. Non-compete clauses restricting employees after termination of employment are generally considered void under Indian law, with the exception of sale of goodwill of a business. Indian courts have taken a strict view that any restriction on an employee's freedom to seek employment after their contract ends will not be enforced.