The Great Red fort
The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, proudly stands as one of India's most rich histories and architectural masterpieces. Sited in the heart of Delhi, this great monument is one of the greatest historical sites and tourist attractions in India. The great monument, surrounded by a huge wall made of sandstone that bears a crimson color, has experienced the rise and fall of several empires and serves as a living testament to the vibrant past of India and the spirit of resilience.
Historical Significance:
It was commissioned by Mughal Emperor "Shah Jahan" in 1638 when he decided to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. It was completed in 1648 and served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years. It was also a political and cultural center of the empire, which witnessed great ceremonies and court assemblies.
This fort has been a symbol of India's freedom struggle because "Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru" hoisted the tricolor flag here on August 15, 1947, when India finally got independence from British rule. Today, every Independence Day, the Prime Minister of India continues this tradition.
Architectural Marvel:
The Red Fort is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, which is a blend of Persian, Timurid, and Indian design elements. It covers an area of **254 acres** and has red sandstone walls that reach up to **33 meters** in height, built to repel invaders.
The main attractions of the Red Fort are:
1. Lahori Gate
- The main entrance, named after the city of Lahore.
2. Diwan-i-Aam It was the emperor's public assembly hall where the emperor addressed public and settled litigations among the people in his court.
3. Diwan-i-Khas It had beautiful marble inlays and once housed the precious Peacock Throne, which is now lost. It was only for private auditions with personal friends and not for the courtiers.
4. Moti Masjid Private mosque built by Emperor Aurangzeb during his reign as a Mughal emperor.
5. Rang Mahal:
- A palace adorned with colorful decorations and a marble water channel called the Nahr-i-Bihisht(Stream of Paradise).
6. Chhatta Chowk:
- A covered bazaar where merchants once sold luxury goods like silk, jewelry, and spices.
Cultural Importance:
The Red Fort is not a mere historical monument; it symbolizes the very essence of Indian culture. Each year, it organizes the "Independence Day celebrations", and the Prime Minister addresses the nation from here. It also organizes sound and light shows that describe the history of India, as if the past of the fort were coming alive.
Timings:9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee:
- ₹50 for Indian citizens
- ₹600 for foreign nationals
Visitor Tips:
- Try to go early to avoid crowds.
- Do not miss the evening sound and light show.
- Check out the market of "Chandni Chowk" just nearby for local street food of Delhi and local shopping.
The Red Fort is more than just a historical site; it symbolizes India's resilience and pride. It is a bridge that connects the past to the present, reminding one of the richness of heritage and inspiring future generations. A visit to this magnificent fort is a journey through the annals of time, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal era and the spirit of India's freedom struggle.
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