Guided Tour of Red Fort, Delhi

Historical Background:

• • Explanation of the fort’s name: Red Fort, or Lal Qila.
  • Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
  • Construction period: 1628 to 1648 (10 years).
  • Description of the fort’s two main gates: Lahore Gate (public entrance) and another gate not open to the public.

Architectural Details:

• • Mention of the Red Sandstone used in construction, sourced from Rajasthan.
  • Fort’s walls and the Yamuna River’s historical connection.
  • Independence Day celebrations and the significance of the Prime Minister’s address from the fort.

Mughal History and British Rule:

• • Transition from Mughal rule to British control in 1857.
  • Period of British control until India’s independence in 1947.
  • Indian Army’s use of the fort from 1947 to 2003.
  • UNESCO World Heritage status awarded in 2007.

Notable Structures within the Red Fort:

• • Meena Bazaar

    • Historical market built by Shah Jahan for his queens.
    • Restricted access during the Mughal era.

  • British Barracks

    • Victorian architecture from the British period.

  • Diwan-i-Aam

    • Public audience hall for meetings between the emperor and the public.
    • Description of the hall’s structure and function.

  • Diwan-i-Khas

    • Private audience hall for meetings with ministers and important dignitaries.
    • Description of the Peacock Throne (Takht-e-Taus) once located here.

  • Rang Mahal

    • Palace for entertainment of royal guests.
    • Features like water channels and marble inlay work.

  • Moti Masjid

    • Small mosque built by Aurangzeb within the fort.

  • Hayat Bakhsh Bagh

    • Meaning “Life Bestowing Garden”.
    • Historical significance and its use for growing flowers and as a relaxation spot for the royals.

  • Asad Burj

    • A tower used for enjoying cool breezes and views of the Yamuna River.

  • Nahar-i-Bahisht

    • Water canal system within the fort.

  • Mumtaz Mahal

    • Named after Shah Jahan’s beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
    • Part of the royal harem and known as the Small Rang Mahal.