Red Fort, Delhi

In the center of Delhi, the dazzling skyline shines with the name given to the fabulous construction: Red Fort. It's the work of craftsmen from red sandstone which signifies the greatness of the Mughal dynasty and their creative vision. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the Shri Lal Qila or the Red Fort, is a glittering collection of palaces, pavilions, and mosques each speaking for the uniqueness of this old city.

Who built Red Fort?

It was during the time of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan that his notable citadel Shahjahanabad was constructed as the royal palace for Shahjahanabad. Its towering walls, which combine the Islamic, Persian, Timurid, and Hindu styles, represent the epoch of cultural exchange and greatness. Within this domain, there were spots like the Shah Mahal, where an opportunity for confidential conversations arose, and the Hall of Public Audience, which served as the center of the audience.

Architecture of Red Fort

The Red Fort has been and remained a tremendous monument to India's glorious past and exquisite architecture. There are many fine-looking buildings in these formidable walls which all add to the historical significance and the impressiveness of the fort. The Diwan-i-Aam, or the hall of public audience, was the place where the emperor held public sessions while speaking to the subjects. This helped build a sense of oneness and togetherness among the people. The Diwan-i-Khas, or the hall of private audience, was the complete opposite, filled with luxury and exclusivity. It received important meetings with courtiers and distinguished guests, who had the chance to enjoy the beautiful ceilings and walls. The Rang Mahal, 'The Palace of Colors', once provided Queenly homes to the emperor's spouses and mistresses. Its walls were painted with rich colors representing the grandeur and skill of the Mughal period.

What to see

Nevertheless, though it was a royal court, the Red Fort presented more than just a stage for formal receptions. When the darkness came, the Son et Lumiere told the Mughal Empire's story of prosperity and decline, voiced by none other than Amitabh Bachchan, the highly acclaimed veteran actor. By getting to the Lahore Gate, people came to Chatta Chowk which was a buzzing bazaar of craftsmen and brokers conversing. On the other hand, the British colonial legacy was physically visible from colonial barracks which were now part of the Archaeological Survey of India museums. Every year in the Independence Day ceremony at the Red Fort, the Prime Minister hoisted the national flag from the Lahore Gate as a symbol of the valiant sacrifice that brought India independence from colonial rule.

History of Red Fort

Building the fort took almost 8 years (1638-48). It no longer overlooks the Yamuna River which has seceded over the period. Historians also state that a waterway through trees also flowed out of the fort, which was named nahr-i-bihisht, or river of paradise, and water from the Yamuna was its source. The Tughluqabad Fort, once adorned with the clearest touch of the Yamuna River flowing near it, now stands bereft of the charm as the river does not flow at its feet anymore but the fort's heritage will live through the veins of Delhi, no matter how harsh time has become as its indication to the everlasting sentiment of the past. The year 1739 saw it fighting an invasion from the Persians led by the plunder-hungry Nadir Shah, who cannibalized its jewels, including the colorful Peacock Throne which Shah Jahan himself specially made. This time saw the beginning of a new chapter in the fort's history, a vivid example of the perils encountered by empires.

A trip to the fort will give you a perception of the past of Delhi and an experience of the era when this fort was a significant part of the city's functioning. Visiting Red Fort is a voyage in time, as each concrete story and corner echoes memories.

Quick Information

Red Fort - Special Highlights

• Majestic Red Fort, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Architectural fusion of Islamic, Persian, Timurid, and Hindu styles
• Must-see attractions: Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Aam, Rang Mahal
• Enchanting Son et Lumiere show narrated by Amitabh Bachchan
• Shopping at Chatta Chowk for ethnic handicrafts; historical significance: Indian PM's flag hoisting on Independence Day

Things to do Near Red Fort

• Travel to the historic Jain temple, located steps away from the stunning Red Fort.
• Offer your respects to Sri Guru Sis Ganj Gurudwara, the martyrdom site of the ninth guru.
• Stop at Sunheri Masjid, an old mosque in Old Delhi, constructed in 1721.
• Consider visiting Shakti Sthal, the memorial dedicated to Indira Gandhi, the former Indian prime minister, known for her resolute approach.
• Pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, the black marble place, representing his cremation site.

How to Reach Red Fort - Ways to Reach