Red Fort, Delhi

The Red Fort or Lal Qila is a living monument and a symbol of India’s composite history. From this site, The Prime Minister of India addresses the nation on 15 August, the day India achieved independence from the British. It also happens to be the largest monument in Old Delhi.

         Planned and built by Emperor Shahjahan, it is inspired by the Agra Fort when he transferred his capital from Agra to Delhi(1638 CE); Red Fort is the core of Shahjahanabad. The fort, built on the right bank of the Yamuna, is enclosed by a rubble stone wall with bastions and 14 gates like Lahori, Ajmer etc.

       Begun in 1639 and completed after nine years, it is an irregular octagonal shape with two longer sides to the east and west. It showcases the very high level of art form and ornamental work. The art work in the Fort is a synthesis of Persian, European and Indian art which resulted in the development of unique Shahjahani style which is very rich in form, expression and colour. It is relevant as a symbol of architectural brilliance and power.

Today, a sound and light show describing Mughal history is a tourist attraction in the evenings.

Some of the important building and structures inside the fort are –

Diwan-i-Aam

Diwan-i-Khas

Nahr-i-Behisht

Zenana

Rang Mahal

Moti Masjid

Hayat Bakhsh Bagh