Introduction:
Contents
- location: Opposite Chandni Chowk and within walking distance from Old Delhi Railway Station.
- The Red Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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.
Museums within the Red Fort:
- First Museum
- Second Museum: Yaadein Museum
- Showcases various historical items.
- Third Museum
- Dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army.
- Exhibits related to Bose’s life and the INA’s role in India’s freedom struggle.