Red Fort History | Reason Behind Red Fort Marble Color | Red Fort Architecture | Red Fort Flag Hoisting | Red Fort Timings | Red Fort UNESCO | Red Fort UPSC
As a resplendent symbol of India’s historical grandeur and architectural brilliance, the Red Fort in Delhi stands as an iconic testament to the country’s rich past. Often referred to as Lal Qila in Hindi, this majestic fortress is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a living embodiment of the country’s socio-cultural legacy. With its exquisite architecture, historical significance, and intricate detailing, the Red Fort continues to captivate visitors and serve as a time portal to India’s storied past.
Red Fort History
The Red Fort’s story begins in the mid-17th century during the reign of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. After moving the capital from Agra to Delhi, Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of a grand fort that would not only serve as a royal residence but also symbolize the might and grandeur of the Mughal Empire. The fort’s construction took nearly a decade, and its completion in 1648 marked the beginning of a new era.
Red Fort Brief Insights
Beyond its architectural magnificence, the Red Fort holds immense historical significance. It served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for about 200 years, witnessing the rise and fall of dynasties and empires. The fort’s ramparts have borne witness to the grand coronations of numerous Mughal rulers, symbolizing the zenith of their power and authority.
The Red Fort also played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence. It was from the ramparts of this fort that the first Prime Minister of independent India, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the national flag on August 15, 1947, marking the end of British colonial rule and the dawn of a new era.
Mughals Region
After Tardi Beg Khan dropping the struggle, Hema Vikramaditya became praised as a king through himself. Later after 1 month, Akbar and his military defeated Hemu. Again castle got here under the possession of Mughals. In history, the castle is called Badalgarh and it became constructed with the handiest bricks.
Akbar reconstructed the castle with pink sandstone. The castle became later changed through Shah Jahan and it took the modern form. According to his architectural taste, he destroyed a number of edifices. The castle became captured through Marata Empire withinside the seventeenth century.
The founding father of the Durrani Empire, Ahmad Shah Durrani defeated Marathas in 1761. It then remained as the house of the Durrani dynasty till 1785. Under the area of Mahadji Shinde, the castle became recaptured through Marathas in 1785. Later Marathas misplaced their nation withinside the palms of the British all through the Anglo-Maratha war. It remained under the management of the British authorities till 1947.
Architecture
The Red Fort’s architectural brilliance is a fusion of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles, reflecting the cosmopolitan nature of the Mughal Empire. The fort’s exterior is composed of red sandstone, giving rise to its name. The walls, towering at a height of about 33 meters, enclose an area of approximately 254 acres, creating a secure haven within the bustling city.
The Lahori Gate, the main entrance to the fort, welcomes visitors with its impressive façade adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. As one ventures deeper into the fort, the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) captivates with its impressive arches and pillared structure, where the emperor would hold public gatherings and address his subjects.
The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) is a marvel of precision and aesthetics. The central pillar, adorned with a stunning peacock throne, once carried the famous Koh-i-Noor diamond. The fort’s royal quarters, including the luxurious Mumtaz Mahal and Rang Mahal, provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Mughal elite.
The Nahr-i-Behisht (Stream of Paradise) running through the complex is a serene waterway that adds to the fort’s allure. Its design symbolizes the rivers of paradise mentioned in Islamic scriptures, creating a tranquil atmosphere amid the bustling city.
Tourist Route Inside
Tourists can input into the citadelress thru Amar Singh Gate. This gate will cause the price tag counter. From the price tag counter, you may attain the Jehangir palace courtyard. This vicinity is referred to as the surviving palace of the citadelress.
A marvelous monument carved out of unmarried stone, Hauz-I-Jehangir may be determined in the front of the Jehangir Palace. This vicinity is used for bathing withinside the past.
As you pass in the direction of the east, you may discover the house of Shah Jahan, Khas Mahal. It is fabricated from a pool and marble pavilion. From right here you may get a tremendous view of the Taj Mahal.
From there you may stumble upon AnguriBagh courtyard. From the garden, you may skip thru the underground steps to attain rooms and passages. In the northeast of the courtyard, you may stumble upon Mirror Palace.
In the north, you may discover the Mathamman Burj, which is an octagonal tower. It is the vicinity wherein Shah Jahan is imprisoned. This Palace is the first-class vicinity to identify the splendor of the Taj Mahal.
While achieving the third courtyard, you may discover a personal Audience that incorporates the peacock throne of Shah Jahan. There might be a mosque for ladies and the royal own circle of relatives at the north which is called Nagina Masjid. If you pass forward, you may discover the Hall of Public Audience and Ladies Bazaar.
UNESCO WHS Status
This was Given World Heritage Site Status by UNESCO in 2007, For its protection and display of the Culture and Heritage of the Mughal Empire.
The designation recognizes its exceptional cultural value and the need for its preservation for future generations.
Efforts to preserve the Red Fort include restoration projects, maintenance of its grounds, and ongoing research to better understand its historical context. These initiatives aim to ensure that the fort’s splendor remains intact, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the grandeur of India’s past.
Travel Route
It’s just 8 Kms away from New Delhi. There are Flights, Railways and Buses Directly to New Delhi
The Ticket Cost is Free you are supposed to see from outside.
Flag Hoisting
Prime Minister of India, Will always give a Speech Addressing the Nation Twice a Year from Red Fort. One is During Republic Day and Another one is during Independence day.
Recently during republic day, Farmers protested during recent farm laws and they jumped on top of the fort and hoisted Farmers Flag.