If you observe the 500 rupee note, you come across an important historical monument of India on its reverse side. Yes, it’s the Red Fort, which stands out as a symbol of India’s regal past. Built during the Mughal era, this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts millions of visitors yearly, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich history and architectural brilliance.
In this blog, we will delve into the history, architecture, significance, and visitor information about the Red Fort, making it a must-visit destination in Delhi.
What is the history behind the Red Fort of Delhi?
The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638 as the palace for his newly established capital, Shahjahanabad. It was completed in 1648 and served as the royal residence until the British colonization of India. The fort is named for its imposing red sandstone walls that stretch over 2 kilometers.
The fort witnessed numerous historical events, including the First War of Independence in 1857, when it became a center for the uprising against British rule. Today, it holds great significance as the site where India’s Prime Minister delivers the annual Independence Day speech, symbolizing freedom and democracy.
Architectural Brilliance
The Red Fort stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Mughal era. Designed by Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the same architect who was behind the Taj Mahal, the fort is an embodiment of Mughal grandeur. Its architecture blends Persian, Timurid, and Indian styles, creating a unique masterpiece that continues to inspire architects and historians alike.
The Red Sandstone Walls:
The first thing that captures your attention when you approach the Red Fort is the massive red sandstone walls that give the fort its name. These towering walls stretch for approximately 2.4 kilometers and rise up to 33 meters at their highest point. They were designed not only for defense but also to convey the fort’s imposing grandeur to anyone approaching it.
The fort’s walls are punctuated by two main gates: the Lahore Gate, which serves as the main entrance, and the Delhi Gate, which was used by the royal family. The Lahore Gate, with its iconic appearance, is where the Prime Minister hoists the national flag every Independence Day.
Also Read: Delhi Travel: Ultimate Guide to Monuments, Timings & Fees
Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas: The Heart of Mughal Administration
One of the most striking aspects of the Red Fort’s design is its public and private audience halls, known as the Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas. The Diwan-i-Aam, or the Hall of Public Audience, is where the emperor would meet with the general public and hear their grievances. This hall is an open pavilion supported by intricately designed columns and arches.
The Diwan-i-Khas, or the Hall of Private Audience, was reserved for the emperor’s meetings with noblemen, dignitaries, and ambassadors. The hall is exquisitely designed, with intricate floral inlays made from precious stones such as rubies and jade. At its center stood the famous Peacock Throne, an opulent throne studded with diamonds and other precious stones, which was later plundered by Nadir Shah of Persia in 1739.
The famous inscription that once adorned the Diwan-i-Khas, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this,” captures the grandeur and opulence of the Mughal court during its heyday.
The Royal Apartments and Gardens
Beyond the audience halls, the Red Fort also housed the royal apartments, where the emperor and his family lived. The apartments were arranged in a series of interconnected buildings, which included the Mumtaz Mahal, Rang Mahal, and Khas Mahal. Each of these structures was designed with intricate detailing, reflecting the Mughal love for fine art and craftsmanship.
The fort also had lush gardens, which were laid out in the Charbagh style, a typical Mughal design where gardens are divided into four parts by water channels. These gardens added to the tranquility and beauty of the royal residence and were meant to evoke the idea of paradise on earth.
The Moti Masjid and Hayat Bakhsh Bagh
The Moti Masjid, or Pearl Mosque, was added to the fort by Shah Jahan’s son, Aurangzeb, in 1659. The mosque is a small, white marble structure, representing the Mughal devotion to Islam. It stands in stark contrast to the red sandstone of the rest of the fort, offering a peaceful place of worship within the fortress walls.
Another highlight of the fort is the Hayat Bakhsh Bagh, meaning Life-Bestowing Garden. This garden features two marble pavilions and a central water channel, which would have originally been filled with cool, flowing water to provide a respite from Delhi’s scorching summers. The garden’s name reflects its purpose of creating a serene and life-giving space within the fort.
What was the Role of Red Fort in India’s Independence Movement?
While the Red Fort is a magnificent reminder of the Mughal Empire, it also played a crucial role in India’s fight for independence from British colonial rule. During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the Red Fort became the focal point for the uprising against the British. Although the rebellion was eventually crushed, it marked the beginning of a larger movement toward Indian self-rule.
In 1945, during the final years of the independence movement, the Red Fort became the site of the famous Indian National Army trials, where several members of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army were tried for treason by the British. These trials sparked widespread protests and further galvanized support for the independence movement.
Following India’s independence in 1947, the Red Fort became a symbol of the newly sovereign nation. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s speech from the ramparts of the fort, after raising the national flag, was a defining moment in India’s history. Today, this tradition continues, with the Prime Minister delivering a speech from the Red Fort on Independence Day every year.
Visiting the Red Fort: A Journey through Time
Today, the Red Fort is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing visitors from all over the world. As you walk through its grand gates and explore its sprawling grounds, you can feel the weight of history in every corner.
How to Reach the Red Fort?
The Red Fort is located in Old Delhi, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. If you’re traveling by the Delhi Metro, the nearest station is Chandni Chowk, which is a short walk from the fort. For those preferring other modes of transport, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are readily available.
Timings and Tickets of the Red Fort
The fort is open to visitors Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance, with separate fees for Indian and foreign nationals. There are also additional charges if you wish to visit the Red Fort Museum or attend the Sound and Light Show, which takes place in the evening.
Exploring the Red Fort
When visiting the Red Fort, it’s best to set aside at least two to three hours to explore its vast grounds. Some of the key attractions within the fort include:
- Lahore Gate: The main entrance to the fort, offering a grand view of the bustling Chandni Chowk area outside.
- Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas: The halls of public and private audience, where you can imagine the grandeur of the Mughal court.
- Mumtaz Mahal and Rang Mahal: The royal apartments, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Mughal rulers.
- The Moti Masjid: A serene white marble mosque within the fort’s grounds.
- The Red Fort Museum: For those interested in learning more about the fort’s history and its role in the independence movement, the museum offers a fascinating collection of artifacts, paintings, and photographs.
The Sound and Light Show
One of the highlights of visiting the Red Fort is the Sound and Light Show, which takes place in the evening. This show narrates the history of the fort and the city of Delhi, complete with light projections on the fort’s walls. It’s a mesmerizing way to experience the fort’s history come alive, especially against the backdrop of the fort’s stunning architecture.
Lastly, the Red Fort is more than just a historical structure; it is a living monument that continues to play a central role in India’s cultural and political life. From its origins as the seat of Mughal power to its role in the independence movement and beyond, the Red Fort stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and enduring spirit of India.
Visiting the Red Fort is not just a journey through history; it is an experience that connects you with the very soul of India. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a traveler looking to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of India, the Red Fort is a must-visit destination.
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