Revision as of 02:47, 5 December 2005 editDeepak~enwiki (talk | contribs)3,630 editsm →Modern day significance: cpedit← Previous edit | Latest revision as of 07:07, 7 January 2025 edit undoPEPSI697 (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users, Pending changes reviewers, Rollbackers13,993 edits Reverted 1 edit by 122.161.49.97 (talk): Non constructive editTags: Twinkle Undo Mobile edit Mobile web edit Advanced mobile edit | ||
Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Short description|Historical fort in Delhi, India}} | |||
] | |||
{{redirect|Lal Qila}} | |||
The '''Delhi Fort''' is located in ], ]. It is also known as ''Lal Qil'ah'' and the ] (not to be confused with the ], which is referred to by these terms as well). | |||
{{about-distinguish|the Red Fort in Delhi|Red Fort, Muzaffarabad|Kuwait Red Fort|Agra Fort}} | |||
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2022}} | |||
{{EngvarB|date=September 2019}} | |||
{{Infobox historic site | |||
| name = Red Fort | |||
| image = Delhi fort.jpg | |||
| image_size = 220px | |||
| caption = A view of the Red Fort's Lahori Gate | |||
| designation1 = WHS | |||
| designation1_offname = Red Fort Complex | |||
| designation1_date = ] <small>(31st ])</small> | |||
| designation1_number = | |||
| designation1_criteria = ii, iii, vi | |||
| designation1_type = Cultural | |||
| designation1_free1name = Region | |||
| designation1_free1value = ] | |||
| location = ], ], ] | |||
| built = 12 May | |||
1639 – {{start date and age|6 April 1648}} | |||
| architect = ] | |||
| architecture = ] | |||
| owner = *] (1648–1857) | |||
*] (1857–1947) | |||
*] (1947–present) | |||
| coordinates = {{coord|28|39|21|N|77|14|27|E|display=inline,title}} | |||
| locmapin = India New Delhi | |||
| map_caption = Location in ], ], Asia | |||
| height = {{cvt|18|-|33|m}} | |||
| built_for = ] | |||
}} | |||
The '''Red Fort''', also known as '''Lal Qila''' ({{IPA-hns|laːl qiːlaː|lang}}) is a historic ] ] in ], India, that served as the primary residence of the ]. Emperor ] commissioned the construction of the Red Fort on 12 May 1639, following his decision to relocate the Mughal capital from ] to Delhi. Originally adorned in red and white, the fort's design is attributed to ], the architect behind the ]. The Red Fort represents the pinnacle of ] during Shah Jahan's reign, blending ] influences with indigenous Indian architectural traditions. | |||
The fort was plundered and stripped of its artwork and jewels during ]'s invasion of the ] in 1739. Most of the fort's marble structures were subsequently demolished by the British following the ]. The fort's defensive walls were largely undamaged, and the fortress was subsequently used as a ]. | |||
On 15 August 1947, the first ], ], raised the ] above the ]. On India's ], observed annually on 15 August, the ] ceremonially raises the Indian tricolour flag at the main gate of the historic fort and delivers a nationally broadcast address from its ramparts. | |||
The Red Fort, as part of the Red Fort Complex, was recognized as a ] in 2007.<ref name="unesco_whl_entry">{{cite web|title=Red Fort Complex|url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/231|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090803141206/http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/231|archive-date=3 August 2009|access-date=15 November 2009|work=World Heritage List|publisher=] World Heritage Centre}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Red Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007|url=http://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/delhi/greater-delhi/activities/historical-heritage-tours/small-group-tour|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429191400/http://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/delhi/greater-delhi/activities/historical-heritage-tours/small-group-tour|archive-date=29 April 2012|access-date=4 August 2012|work=]}}</ref> | |||
==Etymology== | |||
The name ''Red Fort'' is a translation of the ] {{lang|hi-Latn|Lāl Qila}} ({{Langx|hi|लाल क़िला}}, {{Langx|ur|{{nq|لال قلعہ}}}}),<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.shabdkosh.com/translate/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BC%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BC%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE-meaning-in-Hindi-English|title=qila {{!}} Meaning of qila in English by Shabdkosh English Hindi Dictionary|website=Shabdkosh Dictionary|access-date=2 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111001929/http://shabdkosh.com/translate/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BC%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE/%E0%A4%95%E0%A4%BC%E0%A4%BF%E0%A4%B2%E0%A4%BE-meaning-in-Hindi-English|archive-date=11 November 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/qila|title=qila {{!}} Definition of ''qila'' in English by Oxford Dictionaries|website=Oxford Dictionaries {{!}} English|access-date=3 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180403112535/https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/qila|archive-date=3 April 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> deriving from its red sandstone walls. The term ''Lal'' is derived from Hindi, meaning "red," while ''Qila'' originates from Arabic, signifying "fortress". Originally referred to as the "Blessed Fort" (''Qila-i-Mubārak''), the Red Fort served as the residence of the imperial family.<ref name="Spellman2004">{{cite book|author=William M. Spellman|title=Monarchies 1000–2000|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MRbExiEuYPsC|access-date=5 August 2012|date=1 April 2004|publisher=Reaktion Books|isbn=978-1-86189-087-0|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111214091001/http://books.google.com/books?id=MRbExiEuYPsC|archive-date=14 December 2011|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="KiaOakes2002">{{cite book|author1=Mehrdad Kia|author2=Elizabeth H. Oakes|title=Social Science Resources in the Electronic Age|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=yF8kiCtBeLoC|access-date=5 August 2012|date=1 November 2002|publisher=Greenwood Publishing Group|isbn=978-1-57356-474-8|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111082645/http://books.google.com/books?id=yF8kiCtBeLoC|archive-date=11 January 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> ] is also known as {{lang|hi-Latn|Lāl Qila}}. | |||
==History== | ==History== | ||
] ], c. 1630]] | |||
The Red Fort was the palace for ]'s new capital, ], the seventh ] city in the Delhi site. He moved his capital from ] in a move designed to bring prestige to his reign, and to provide ample opportunity to apply his ambitious building schemes and interests. The Red Fort stands at the eastern edge of Shahjahanabad, and gets its name from the massive wall of red sandstone that defines its eight sides. The wall is 1.5miles (2.5km) long, and varies in height from 60ft (16m) on the river side to 110ft (33m) towards the city. Measurements have shown that the plan was generated using a square grid of 82m. | |||
Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned construction of the Red Fort on 12 May 1638, following his decision to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. Originally adorned in red and white, the favorite colors of Emperor Shah Jahan,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nelson |first1=Dean |date=20 May 2011 |title=Delhi's Red Fort was originally white |newspaper=] (UK)}}</ref> the design of the Red Fort is attributed to the architect ], renowned for his work on the Taj Mahal.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://oxfordindex.oup.com/view/10.1093/oi/authority.20110810104325668?lang=en,%20//oxfordindex.oup.com:443/view/10.1093/oi/authority.20110810104325668|title=Ustad Ahmad – oi|website=oxfordindex.oup.com|access-date=8 December 2019}}{{dead link|date=August 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pbs.org/treasuresoftheworld/taj_mahal/tlevel_2/t3build_design.html|title=Building the Taj – who designed the Taj Mahal|work=]|access-date=13 August 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140218114338/http://www.pbs.org/treasuresoftheworld/taj_mahal/tlevel_2/t3build_design.html|archive-date=18 February 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> The fort straddles the ], which fed the ] surrounding most of the walls.<ref>{{cite web|title=Red Fort lies along the River Yamuna|url=http://www.delhicapital.com/monuments-in-delhi/lal-qila.html|access-date=4 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120814043557/http://www.delhicapital.com/monuments-in-delhi/lal-qila.html|archive-date=14 August 2012|url-status=live}}</ref> Construction began in the sacred ] of ], on 13 May 1638.<ref name="ASI3">{{cite web |title = Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan for Red Fort, Delhi |publisher = ] |date = March 2009 |url = http://asi.nic.in/ccmp_text_pdf/chapter-03-history.pdf |access-date = 14 August 2012 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120508111424/http://asi.nic.in/ccmp_text_pdf/chapter-03-history.pdf |archive-date = 8 May 2012 |url-status = live }}</ref>{{rp|01}} Supervised by Shah Jahan, it was completed on 6 April 1648.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://archive.org/details/cu31924006140374|title=Shah Jahan|first=H. M. (Henry Miers)|last=Elliot|date=26 September 1875|publisher=].<ref name="ASI3" /> The fortress-palace served as the centerpiece of Shahjahanabad, the city now known as ]. Shah Jahan's successor, Emperor ], enhanced the Red Fort by adding the ''Moti Masjid'' (Pearl Mosque) to the emperor's private quarters. He also constructed ] in front of the two main gates to create a more circuitous approach to the palace.<ref name="ASI3" /> | |||
]'s tower]] | |||
Following the death of Emperor Aurangzeb, the administrative and fiscal structure of the Mughal dynasty experienced a decline, leading to the degeneration of the palace during the 18th century. In 1712, ] was crowned the ]. Within a year of commencing his rule, Shah was murdered and replaced by ]. In 1739, the Persian emperor Nadir Shah decisively defeated the Mughal army, despite its considerable strength of approximately 200,000 soldiers.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Battle of Karnal {{!}} Summary|url=https://www.britannica.com/event/Battle-of-Karnal|access-date=24 May 2021|website=Encyclopedia Britannica|language=en}}</ref> Following his victory, he plundered the Red Fort, seizing its treasures, including the legendary ]. After three months, Nadir Shah returned to Persia, leaving the city a shadow of its former self and the Mughal Empire severely weakened under Muhammad Shah's reign.<ref name="ASI3" /> The internal weaknesses of the Mughal Empire reduced the Mughals to titular rulers of Delhi. A treaty signed in 1752 established the ] as the protectors of the throne in Delhi.<ref>{{cite book|last=Mehta|first=J. L.|title=Advanced Study in the History of Modern India: Volume One: 1707–1813|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=d1wUgKKzawoC&pg=PA134|year=2005|publisher=Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd|isbn=978-1-932705-54-6|page=134|access-date=25 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112041547/http://books.google.com/books?id=d1wUgKKzawoC&pg=PA134|archive-date=12 January 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Jayapalan|first=N.|title=History of India|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6L6avTlqJNYC&pg=PA249|year=2001|publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Distri|isbn=978-81-7156-928-1|page=249|access-date=25 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112023157/http://books.google.com/books?id=6L6avTlqJNYC&pg=PA249|archive-date=12 January 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> The 1758 Maratha victory over the Afghans at ], and followed by their defeat at ]<ref>. Google Books. Retrieved 29 July 2013.</ref> catapulted them into further conflict with ].<ref>{{cite book | last=Roy |first=Kaushik |title=India's Historic Battles: From Alexander the Great to Kargil |publisher=Permanent Black, India |pages=80–81 |isbn=978-81-78241-09-8|year=2004 }}</ref><ref>{{cite book| first=Mountstuart |last=Elphinstone |title=History of India | url=https://archive.org/details/historyindia02elphgoog |publisher=John Murray, London|year=1841 |page=}}</ref> | |||
In 1760, the ] stripped and melted the silver ceiling of the ] to raise funds for the defence of Delhi from the armies of ].<ref name="kulkarni345">{{cite book|last=Kulkarni|first=Uday S.|title=Solstice at Panipat, 14 January 1761|year=2012|publisher=Mula Mutha Publishers|location=Pune|isbn=978-81-921080-0-1|page=345}}</ref><ref name="google140">{{cite book|last1=Kumar Maheshwari|first1=Kamalesh|last2=Wiggins|first2=Kenneth W.|title=Maratha Mints and Coinage|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=zVdmAAAAMAAJ|year=1989|publisher=Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies|page=140|access-date=25 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112045304/http://books.google.com/books?id=zVdmAAAAMAAJ|archive-date=12 January 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1761, after the Marathas lost the ], Delhi was raided by Ahmed Shah Durrani. Ten years later, the Marathas, acting at the behest of the exiled Emperor ], recaptured Delhi from the Rohilla Afghans. ], the commander of the Maratha Army, restored ] to the throne.<ref>{{cite book|last=Dalrymple|first=William|title=The Anarchy}}</ref> | |||
In 1764, the ] ruler of ], Maharaja ], attacked ] and eventually captured the Red Fort of Delhi on 5 February 1765.<ref>{{Cite book|title=RPSC RAS Prelims: History of Rajasthan Complete Study Notes With MCQ|last=Meena|first=P R|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RH--DwAAQBAJ&q=Jawahar+Singh%E2%80%99s+march+against+Delhi&pg=PT70|publisher=New Era Publication}}</ref> Two days later, after exacting tribute from the Mughals, the Jats withdrew their forces from the Red Fort, seizing the Mughal throne—often regarded as the pride of the dynasty—and the fort's doors as trophies. The throne now adorns the palace at ], serving as a historical centerpiece. The doors are located in the ] of ].<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7pfpDwAAQBAJ&q=Jawahar+Singh+red+fort&pg=PA17|title=Rajasthan District G.K.: English Medium|last=Gupta|first=Devesh|publisher=Atharv Publication|pages=134}}</ref> | |||
In 1783, Sikh ]s led by ], ], and ] conquered Delhi and the Red Fort. With a consolidate force consisting of 40,000 troops, they looted the area spanning from ] to ]. After negotiations, the Sikhs forces agreed to withdraw ] and reinstate the ] ]. As a condition of their retreat, the Jats stipulated the construction of seven Sikh ] in Delhi, including the ] in ].<ref>{{Cite book|last=Murphy|first=Anne|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=r13hjYfoI6MC&pg=PA151|title=The Materiality of the Past: History and Representation in Sikh Tradition|date=29 November 2012|publisher=OUP USA|isbn=978-0-19-991629-0|language=en}}</ref> | |||
In 1788, a Maratha garrison occupied the Red Fort and Delhi, offering protection to the Mughal Emperor. ] negotiated a treaty with the Sikhs, cautioning them against entering Delhi or levying the Rakhi tribute. Control of the fort subsequently passed to the East India Company after the ] in 1803.<ref name="books.google.co.in">{{cite book |last=Murphy |first=Anne |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=r13hjYfoI6MC&pg=PA151 |title=The Materiality of the Past: History and Representation in Sikh Tradition |publisher=] |year=2012 |isbn=978-0-19-991629-0 |page=151 |access-date=25 September 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927100932/http://books.google.com/books?id=r13hjYfoI6MC&pg=PA151 |archive-date=27 September 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
During the Second Anglo-Maratha War, the forces of the ] defeated the Maratha troops led by Daulat Rao Scindia in the ]; This event marked the end of Maratha control over Delhi and their authority over the Red Fort.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Mayaram |first=Shail |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TyUtKfcjzG4C |title=Against History, Against State: Counterperspectives from the Margins |date=2003 |publisher=Columbia University Press |isbn=978-0-231-12731-8 |language=en}}</ref> After the battle, the British East India Company took over the administration of Mughal territories and installed a ] at the Red Fort. The last Mughal emperor to occupy the fort, Bahadur Shah II, became a symbol of the ] against the British East India Company in which the residents of Shahjahanabad participated. | |||
{{Multiple image | |||
| image1 = Ghulam_Ali_Khan_010b.jpg | |||
| image2 = Rang_Mahal_with_Fountain_-_Western_View_-_Red_Fort_-_Delhi_2014-05-13_3243.JPG | |||
| caption1 = <i>Rang Mahal</i> in the mid-nineteenth century | |||
| caption2 = <i>Rang Mahal</i> today | |||
| direction = horizontal | |||
}} | |||
Despite its position as the seat of Mughal power and its defensive capabilities, the Red Fort was not a site of any engagements during the 1857 uprising against the British. After the rebellion was subdued, Bahadur Shah II left the fort on 17 September and was subsequently apprehended by British forces. Bahadur Shah Zafar II returned to Red Fort as a British prisoner, was tried in 1858, and exiled to ] on 7 October that year.<ref>{{cite web|last=Mody |first=Krutika |title=Bahadur Shah II "Zafar"'s significance with Red Fort |url=http://know.burrp.com/my-city/about-red-fort-delhi/11267 |access-date=4 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120902215305/http://know.burrp.com/my-city/about-red-fort-delhi/11267 |archive-date=2 September 2012 }}</ref> After the conclusion of the rebellion, the British sacked the Red Fort before ordering its systemic demolition. As a result of this widespread destruction, 80% of the fort's structures were demolished, including the stone screen that once connected the pavilions along the river-facing façade of the fort.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Soofi|first=Delhi's Belly{{!}} Mayank Austen|date=19 August 2011|title=The other red corridor|url=https://www.livemint.com/Leisure/LQ6ebeBiHz5QhEkdLAsa3K/The-other-red-corridor.html|access-date=23 May 2021|website=mint|language=en}}</ref> All furniture was either removed or destroyed; the ] apartments, servants' quarters, and gardens were demolished, and a line of stone barracks erected atop them.<ref name="auto">{{cite book|author=William Dalrymple|title=The Last Mughal|publisher=]|year=2007|isbn=978-0-14-310243-4|page=7|chapter=Introduction|author-link=William Dalrymple (historian)}}</ref> Only the marble buildings on the east side at the imperial enclosure escaped complete destruction, although they were damaged while demolition was underway. While the defensive walls and towers were relatively unscathed, over two-thirds of the inner structures were demolished.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How the Red Fort Became the Site for India s Independence Day Celebrations |url=https://thewire.in/history/red-fort-history-independence-india |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=thewire.in}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last1=Sirur |first1=Simrin |last2=ThePrint |date=2021-01-30 |title=Red Fort isn't just a historic monument. Its breach crossed a red line in Indian mind |url=https://theprint.in/opinion/newsmaker-of-the-week/red-fort-isnt-just-a-historic-monument-its-breach-crossed-a-red-line-in-indian-mind/595114/ |access-date=2024-05-15 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref> | |||
], who served as the ] from 1899 to 1905, initiated restoration efforts for the Red Fort. These included the reconstruction of its walls and the revival of its gardens, complete with an updated watering system.<ref>{{cite book|author=Eugenia W Herbert|title=Flora's Empire: British Gardens in India|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Evt1Zg9-nrMC&pg=PT333|year=2013|publisher=] Limited|isbn=978-81-8475-871-9|page=333}}</ref> | |||
] hoisting the tricolour on 15 August 1947, marking India's first Independence Day]] | |||
The majority of the jewels and artwork housed in the Red Fort were looted during Nadir Shah's invasion in 1747, and yet again in the aftermath of the ]. They were eventually sold to private collectors or the ], the ], and the ]. For instance, Shah Jahan's ] and ], both looted, are currently held in London. Various requests for ] have so far been rejected by the ].<ref>{{cite news| title=Koh-i-Noor Diamond Will Not Be Returned To India, David Cameron Insists| url=http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2013/02/21/koh-i-noor-diamond-not-returned-india-david-cameron-insists-pictures_n_2732342.html| last=Nelson| first=Sara C.| work=]| date=21 February 2013| access-date=27 July 2013| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130819011613/http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2013/02/21/koh-i-noor-diamond-not-returned-india-david-cameron-insists-pictures_n_2732342.html| archive-date=19 August 2013| url-status=live}}</ref>]) ]]1911 witnessed the visit of King ] and ] for the ]. In anticipation of their visit, some buildings were restored. The ] was moved from the drum house to the '']''. | |||
The ], also known as the Red Fort Trials, refer to the courts-martial of a number of officers of the ]. The first trial was conducted at the Red Fort between November and December 1945. | |||
On 15 August 1947, the first ], ], raised the ] above the ].<ref name="auto12">{{cite news|author=PTI|date=15 August 2013|title=Manmohan first PM outside Nehru-Gandhi clan to hoist flag for 10th time|newspaper=]|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/manmohan-first-pm-outside-nehrugandhi-clan-to-hoist-flag-for-10th-time/article5025367.ece|url-status=live|access-date=13 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131221090006/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/manmohan-first-pm-outside-nehrugandhi-clan-to-hoist-flag-for-10th-time/article5025367.ece|archive-date=21 December 2013}}</ref> | |||
After ], the site experienced few changes, and the Red Fort continued to be used as a military ]. A significant portion of the Red Fort remained under the control of the ] until 22 December 2003, when it was transferred to the ] for restoration and conservation.<ref name="Defence2005">{{cite book|author=India. Ministry of Defence|title=Sainik samachar|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=CzvfAAAAMAAJ|access-date=5 August 2012|year=2005|publisher=Director of Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130930001452/http://books.google.com/books?id=CzvfAAAAMAAJ|archive-date=30 September 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Muslim India">{{cite book|title=Muslim India|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=1kcYAQAAMAAJ|access-date=5 August 2012|year=2004|publisher=Muslim India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130930000947/http://books.google.com/books?id=1kcYAQAAMAAJ|archive-date=30 September 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2009, the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP), prepared by the Archaeological Survey of India under the auspices of a ] direction to revitalise the fort, was announced.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/Red+Fort+facelift+to+revive+Mughal+glory+in+10+years/1/44647.html |title=Red Fort facelift to revive Mughal glory in 10 years : Mail Today Stories, News – India Today |publisher=Indiatoday.intoday.in |date=1 June 2009 |access-date=3 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213113749/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/Red+Fort+facelift+to+revive+Mughal+glory+in+10+years/1/44647.html |archive-date=13 December 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://asi.nic.in/ccmp_text_pdf/chapter-%2010-management%20plan.pdf |title=CHAPTER-10_revised_jan09.pmd |access-date=13 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120508111536/http://asi.nic.in/ccmp_text_pdf/chapter-%2010-management%20plan.pdf |archive-date=8 May 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://asi.nic.in/ccmp_text_pdf/chapter-0-exe%20summary.pdf |title=CHAPTER-00_revisedfeb09.pmd |access-date=13 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120508112528/http://asi.nic.in/ccmp_text_pdf/chapter-0-exe%20summary.pdf |archive-date=8 May 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> | |||
In recent years, several new museums and galleries have been added to the Red Fort complex. Four of these museums, inaugurated in 2019, are housed in the colonial-era barracks within the complex. Barrack B1 is dedicated to the 1857 War of Independence, Barrack B2 commemorates the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and Barrack B3 focuses on ] and the Indian National Army movement. Barrack B4, known as ''Drishyakala'', is a collaboration between the Archaeological Survey of India and the ], showcasing Indian art. The earlier museums, including the Indian Freedom Fighters' Museum, the ''Mumtaz Mahal'' Museum, and the ''Naubat Khana'' Museum, have been closed, with their exhibits relocated to these newly-established museums.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-01-24 |title=Four museums at Red Fort open window to battle for freedom |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/four-museums-at-red-fort-open-window-to-battle-for-freedom/articleshow/67664340.cms |access-date=2024-08-16 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> | |||
==Archaeological finds== | |||
Archaeological excavations at the Red Fort have unearthed several ] artefacts dating from 2600 BCE to 1200 BCE.<ref>{{Cite book | last =Singh | first =Upinder | year =2008 | title =A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India From the Stone Age to the 12th Century | url =https://books.google.com/books?id=H3lUIIYxWkEC&pg=PA216|page=218| publisher =Pearson Education India | isbn =9788131711200 }}</ref> | |||
== {{anchor|Red Fort today}} Modern era == | |||
]]] | |||
] delivers an address on August 15, 2022]] | |||
The Red Fort, the largest monument in Delhi,<ref name="SchreitmüllerDhamotharan2012">{{cite book|last1=Schreitmüller|first1=Karen|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bGgf_LkeG2kC&pg=PA253|title=Baedeker India|last2=Dhamotharan|first2=Mohan (CON)|last3=Szerelmy|first3=Beate (CON)|date=14 February 2012|publisher=]|isbn=978-3-8297-6622-7|page=253|access-date=25 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927180628/http://books.google.com/books?id=bGgf_LkeG2kC&pg=PA253|archive-date=27 September 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> is one of its most popular tourist destinations<ref name="Devashish2011">{{cite book|last=Devashish|first=Dasgupta|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oXWAEjcG-FsC&pg=PA79|title=Tourism Marketing|publisher=]|year=2011|isbn=978-81-317-3182-6|page=79|access-date=25 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130929010047/http://books.google.com/books?id=oXWAEjcG-FsC&pg=PA79|archive-date=29 September 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> and attracts thousands of visitors every year.<ref name="Murthy">{{cite news|last=Murthy|first=Raja|date=23 February 2012|title=Mughal 'paradise' gets tortuous makeover|newspaper=]|location=South Asia|url=http://www.atimes.com/atimes/South_Asia/NB23Df01.html|url-status=unfit|access-date=25 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121120145541/http://www.atimes.com/atimes/South_Asia/NB23Df01.html|archive-date=20 November 2012}}</ref> It is a monument of national significance; each year on India's independence day, observed on August 15, the ] hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and delivers a speech from its ], which is broadcast nationwide.<ref name="business-standard.com">{{cite news|date=15 August 2012|title=Singh becomes third PM to hoist flag at Red Fort for 9th time|newspaper=]|url=http://www.business-standard.com/generalnews/news/singh-becomes-third-pm-to-hoist-flag-at-red-fort-for-9th-time/44355/|access-date=17 August 2012}}</ref> The fort also appears on the back of the ] of the ] of the ].<ref name="500RBI">{{cite web|date=8 November 2016|title=Issue of ₹ 500 banknotes inset letter 'E' in Mahatma Gandhi (New) series after demonitization|url=https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=38524|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161109222836/https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/BS_PressReleaseDisplay.aspx?prid=38524|archive-date=9 November 2016|access-date=9 November 2016|website=Reserve Bank of India}}</ref> | |||
The Red Fort's architectural features are in varying states of preservation. While some structures remain relatively intact, retaining their original decorative elements, others have suffered significant damage, with inlaid marble floral designs removed by looters. The water features, once extensive, are now dry. The tea house, though not preserved in its historical form, functions as a working restaurant. The mosque and the '']'' (public baths) are closed to visitors, who can only view them through glass windows or marble latticework. Walkways within the complex are deteriorating, and public toilets are available both at the entrance and inside the premises. The Lahori Gate serves as the main entrance, leading to a shopping area with jewelry and craft stores. The complex also houses a museum of "blood paintings," which narrate the stories of 20th-century Indian martyrs, alongside an archaeological museum and an Indian war-memorial museum.{{Citation needed|date=June 2021}} | |||
=== 2000 terrorist attack === | |||
The Red Fort was the site of a ], carried out by six ] operatives. Two soldiers and a civilian were killed in what the news media described as an attempt to derail the then-ongoing India-Pakistan peace talks.<ref>{{cite web|date=19 August 2012|title=Red Fort attack will not affect peace moves|url=http://in.rediff.com/news/2000/dec/23tara.htm|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003070913/http://in.rediff.com/news/2000/dec/23tara.htm|archive-date=3 October 2012|access-date=19 August 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=31 March 2012|title=Red Fort terrorist attacks|url=http://news.oneindia.in/2012/03/31/red-fort-attack-court-discharges-alleged-let-terrorist.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513075302/http://news.oneindia.in/2012/03/31/red-fort-attack-court-discharges-alleged-let-terrorist.html|archive-date=13 May 2013|access-date=4 August 2012}}</ref> | |||
==== Security ==== | |||
To ensure security and prevent terrorist attacks, stringent measures are implemented around the Red Fort on the eve of the Indian Independence Day. ] and paramilitary forces maintain a vigilant presence in the neighborhoods surrounding the fort, while ] sharpshooters are strategically stationed on high-rises near the site.<ref name="DNA1">{{cite news |date=14 August 2012 |title=Security tightened across Delhi on I-Day eve |newspaper=] |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_security-tightened-across-delhi-on-i-day-eve_1727877 |url-status=live |access-date=17 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120818022210/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report_security-tightened-across-delhi-on-i-day-eve_1727877 |archive-date=18 August 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=16 August 2012 |title=Tight security ensures safe I-Day celebration |newspaper=] |url=http://www.asianage.com/delhi/tight-security-ensures-safe-i-day-celebration-119 |url-status=dead |access-date=17 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171117002607/http://www.asianage.com/delhi/tight-security-ensures-safe-i-day-celebration-119 |archive-date=17 November 2017}}</ref> The airspace around the fort is a designated ] during the celebration,<ref>{{cite news |date=16 August 2011 |title=Rain Brings Children Cheer, Gives Securitymen a Tough Time |newspaper=] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article2359798.ece?textsize=small&test=2 |url-status=live |access-date=27 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230234043/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article2359798.ece?textsize=small&test=2 |archive-date=30 December 2013}}</ref> and ]s exist in the vicinity to which the prime minister and other dignitaries can be whisked off to in the event of an attack.<ref name="DNA1" /> | |||
=== Adoption controversy === | |||
In April 2018, the ] adopted the Red Fort for maintenance, development, and operations under the government's "Adopt A Heritage" scheme, through a contract worth ₹25 crores for a period of five years.<ref name="business">{{Cite news|last=Manish|first=Sai|date=29 April 2018|title=Dalmia Bharat group to adopt Delhi's iconic Red Fort for five years|work=]|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/shah-jahan-s-iconic-red-fort-in-delhi-is-now-dalmia-group-s-red-fort-118042700414_1.html|url-status=live|access-date=7 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190513020218/https://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/shah-jahan-s-iconic-red-fort-in-delhi-is-now-dalmia-group-s-red-fort-118042700414_1.html|archive-date=13 May 2019}}</ref> A memorandum of understanding was signed with the ministries of ] and ], and the ].<ref name="adoption1">{{Cite news|last=Krishna|first=Navmi|date=30 April 2018|title=Red Fort adoption row: The long list of Monument Mitras|work=]|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/red-fort-adoption-row-the-long-list-of-monument-mitras/article23729853.ece|access-date=7 September 2019}}</ref> The adoption of the Red Fort by a private entity sparked outcry and widespread debate, drawing criticism from the public, historians, and political parties. The move also led to the trending of the hashtag #IndiaOnSale on Twitter.<ref name="bbc">{{Cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-43949370 |title=Indians upset over Red Fort monument 'adoption' |last=Nettikkara |first=Samiha |date=30 April 2018 |work=] |access-date=7 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190709150855/https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-43949370 |archive-date=9 July 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> In May 2018, the Indian National Congress demanded the suspension of the agreement until an "impartial review" could be conducted by the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology or another recognized body of experts.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/historians-seek-review-of-red-fort-contract/article23752738.ece |title=Historians seek review of Red Fort contract |last=Pathak |first=Vikas |date=2 May 2018 |work=] |access-date=7 September 2019}}</ref> | |||
=== 2021 Indian farmers' Republic Day protest === | |||
On 26 January 2021, during the ], a coterie of protesting farmers breached the fort, hoisted religious flags from its ramparts, and scaled the domes of the fort.<ref>{{cite news |date=26 January 2021 |title=India protest: Farmers breach Delhi's Red Fort in huge tractor rally |newspaper=BBC News |publisher=BBC |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-55793731 |access-date=28 January 2021}}</ref> One of the farmers was witnessed climbing a flagpole in front of the fort and hoisting the ] pennant on the flagpole.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dawn.com |date=26 January 2021 |title=In pictures: Indian farmers enter Delhi's Red Fort as protests break out across the country |url=https://www.dawn.com/news/1603750 |access-date=29 January 2021 |website=Dawn |location=Pakistan}}</ref> Provisions with the fort sustained damage owing to clashes between the protestors and the police.<ref>{{cite web |date=28 January 2021 |title=ASI shuts Red Fort till January 31 for visitors after vandalism by tractor rally protesters |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/red-fort-news-asi-shuts-iconic-monument-till-january-31-for-visitors-after-vandalism-flag-hoisting-by-tractor-rally-protesters/2180319/ |access-date=28 January 2021}}</ref> The fort was vacated following police announcements. | |||
== Architecture == | |||
] | |||
The ] characterises the Red Fort as embodying "the zenith of Mughal creativity". The fort synthesises Islamic palace structure with local traditions, resulting in a confluence of "], ], and ]". The fort served as an inspiration for later buildings and gardens across the Indian subcontinent.<ref name="unesco_whl_entry" /> | |||
The Red Fort spans an area of 254.67 acres (103.06 hectares) and is enclosed by 2.41 kilometers (1.50 miles) of defensive walls.<ref name="Batra2008">{{cite book|author=N. L. Batra|title=Delhi's Red Fort by the Yamuna|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wUMWAQAAMAAJ|access-date=5 August 2012|date=May 2008|publisher=Niyogi Books|isbn=9780856676543|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131009062210/http://books.google.com/books?id=wUMWAQAAMAAJ|archive-date=9 October 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> These walls, reinforced with turrets and bastions, vary in height from 18 meters (59 feet) on the river-facing side to 33 meters (108 feet) on the city-facing side. The fort is octagonal, with the north–south axis longer than the east–west axis. The marble, floral decorations and the fort's double domes exemplify later Mughal architecture.<ref name="Langmead178">{{cite book |last1=Langmead |url=https://archive.org/details/encyclopediaofar0000lang |title=Encyclopedia of Architectural and Engineering Feats |last2=Garnaut |first2=Christine |publisher=] |year=2001 |isbn=978-1-57607-112-0 |page= |url-access=registration}}</ref> | |||
It showcases a high level of ornamentation, and the ] diamond was reportedly part of the furnishings. The artwork of the Red Fort integrates Persian, European, and Indian artistic traditions, culminating in a distinctive Shahjahani style characterized by its richness in form, expression, and color. The Red Fort is one of India's most significant architectural complexes, encapsulating a rich history and diverse artistic traditions. Even prior to its designation as a monument of national importance in 1913, efforts were undertaken to ensure its preservation for posterity. | |||
The ] and Delhi Gates were used by the public, whereas the Khizrabad Gate was reserved for the emperor.<ref name="ASI3" /> The Lahori Gate serves as the main entrance to the Red Fort, leading to the ''Chhatta Chowk'', a domed shopping area often referred to as the covered bazaar. | |||
== Major structures == | |||
The most significant surviving structures of the Red Fort include its walls and ramparts, the main gates, the audience halls, and the imperial apartments located along the eastern riverbank.<ref>{{cite web |title=World Heritage Site – Red Fort, Delhi |publisher=] |url=http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort.asp |access-date=15 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224035029/http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort.asp |archive-date=24 December 2014 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
] | |||
=== Lahori Gate === | |||
{{Main|Lahori Gate, Delhi}} | |||
], which is almost identical in appearance to the ]]] | |||
The Lahori Gate, the primary entrance to the Red Fort, derives its name from its orientation towards the city of Lahore, which was once part of the ]. During Aurangzeb's reign, the aesthetic appeal of the Lahori Gate was modified by the construction of a ], which Shah Jahan poetically described as "a veil drawn across the face of a beautiful woman."<ref name=fanshawe>{{Cite book|author=Fanshawe.H.C|title=Delhi, Past and Present|access-date=10 June 2009|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vJ4HFt5S8CcC&q=Gates+in+Delhi&pg=PA6|pages=1–8, general introduction|publisher=]|year=1998|isbn=978-81-206-1318-8|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191215123123/https://books.google.com/books?id=vJ4HFt5S8CcC&pg=PA6&dq=Gates+in+Delhi#PPA46-IA1,M1|archive-date=15 December 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>Sharma p.143</ref><ref name = Milli>{{cite web|url=http://www.milligazette.com/Archives/2004/01-15Jun04-Print-Edition/011506200496.htm|title=Dilli's gates and windows|access-date=17 May 2009|author=Mahtab Jahan|publisher=MG The Milli Gazette|year=2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170619160902/http://www.milligazette.com/Archives/2004/01-15Jun04-Print-Edition/011506200496.htm|archive-date=19 June 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Since 1947, on every Indian Independence Day, the national flag is ceremonially unfurled, and the Prime Minister delivers a speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort. | |||
=== Delhi Gate === | |||
{{Main|Delhi Gate (Red Fort)}} | |||
The Delhi Gate serves as the southern public entrance to the Red Fort and shares a similar layout and appearance with the Lahori Gate. Flanking the gate are two life-sized stone elephants positioned to face each other.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort_detail.asp|title=World heritage site|work=Asi.nic.in|access-date=3 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151101031606/http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort_detail.asp|archive-date=1 November 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
=== Chhatta Chowk === | |||
{{Main|Chhatta Chowk}} | |||
Adjacent to the Lahori Gate is the ''Chhatta Chowk'' (or Meena Bazaar), where silk, jewellery and other items for the imperial household were sold during the Mughal period. This market was earlier known as ''Bazaar-i-Musaqqaf'' or ''Chatta-bazaar'' (both meaning "roofed market"). The Lahori Gate, the main entrance to the Red Fort, opens into an outer court that intersects with a large north–south street. This street originally separated the fort's military functions, located to the west, from the palaces situated to the east. At its southern end lies the Delhi Gate.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/129444/chatta-chowk-market-all-reasons.html |title=Chatta Chowk: A market for all reasons |last=Kuriakose |first=Anthony |date=15 January 2011 |website=deccanherald.com |url-status=live |access-date=12 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110122080824/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/129444/chatta-chowk-market-all-reasons.html |archive-date=22 January 2011 }}</ref> | |||
=== Naubat Khana === | |||
{{Main|Naubat Khana (Red Fort)}} | |||
]'' and the courtyard before its demolition by the British, in an 1858 photograph]] | |||
] | |||
In the east wall of the court stands the now-isolated ''Naubat Khana'' (]: "Waiting Hall"), also known as ''Nakkar Khana'' (drum house). Music was performed daily at scheduled times within the Red Fort, and it was required of everyone, except members of the royalty, to dismount during these performances. Later Mughal emperors ] (1712–1713) and ] (1713–1719) are believed to have been murdered here. The ] is located on the second floor.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://indiapicks.com/Heritage/Red_Fort/Red_Fort-Naubat_Khana.htm |title=Lal Qila (Red Fort) – Naubat Khana |website=indiapicks.com |url-status=live |access-date=12 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180311235856/http://indiapicks.com/Heritage/Red_Fort/Red_Fort-Naubat_Khana.htm |archive-date=11 March 2018 }}</ref> | |||
The vaulted arcade of the ''Chhatta Chowk'' ends in the centre of the outer court, which measured {{convert|540|x|360|ft|m}}.<ref name="archive1">{{cite web |url=https://archive.org/stream/handbooktravelle00john#page/196 |title=A handbook for travellers in India, Burma, and Ceylon |access-date=3 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224183054/http://www.archive.org/stream/handbooktravelle00john#page/196 |archive-date=24 December 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> The side arcades and the central tank of the Red Fort were demolished following the 1857 rebellion. | |||
=== Diwan-i-Aam === | |||
{{Main|Diwan-i-Aam (Red Fort, Delhi)}} | |||
] | |||
] | |||
The inner main court to which the ''Nakkar Khana'' led was {{convert|540|ft}} wide and {{convert|420|ft}} deep, surrounded by guarded galleries.<ref name="archive1" /> On the far side is the '']'', the Public Audience Hall. This venue was used to oversee official matters brought forth by commoners, including legal issues such as taxation, inheritance disputes, and matters related to '']'' (endowments). | |||
The hall's columns and ] arches exhibit fine craftsmanship, and the hall was originally decorated with white ''chunam'' stucco.<ref name="archive1" /> At the rear of the venue, in a raised recess, the emperor would grant audiences from the marble balcony ('']''). | |||
The ''Diwan-i-Aam'' was also used for state functions.<ref name="Langmead178" /> The courtyard (''mardana'') behind it leads to the imperial apartments. | |||
=== Mumtaz Mahal === | |||
{{Main|Mumtaz Mahal (Red Fort)}} | |||
]''}}]] | |||
The two southernmost pavilions of the palace are ] (women's quarters), consisting of the ''Mumtaz Mahal,'' built for Arjumand Banu Begum (]), who was wife of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan,<ref>{{cite book|last1=Lach|first1= F.|last2=Kley|first2=Edwin J. Van|title=Asia in the Making of Europe, Volume III: A Century of Advance. Book 2, South Asia|date=1998|publisher=] Press|isbn=9780226466972|page=689|language=en}}</ref> and the larger ''Rang Mahal'' was designated a resort for royal women.<ref name=archnet>{{Cite web |url=https://archnet.org/sites/5270 |title= Rang Mahal Delhi, India |website=archnet.org |access-date=12 April 2020}}</ref> The ''Mumtaz Mahal'' houses the ]. | |||
=== Rang Mahal === | |||
{{Main|Rang Mahal (Red Fort)}} | |||
The ''Rang Mahal'', meaning "Palace of Colours," served as the residence for the emperor's wives and mistresses. It derived its name from its vibrant paintings and intricate decorations, including a mosaic of mirrors. At its center lies a marble pool, which is fed by the ''Nahr-i-Bihisht'' ("River of Paradise").<ref name="KM">{{Cite web |url=https://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/delhi/attractions/khas-mahal/a/poi-sig/1337802/356220 |title=Khas Mahal |website=lonelyplanet.com |access-date=12 April 2020}}</ref><ref name="archnet" /> | |||
=== Khas Mahal === | |||
{{Main|Khas Mahal (Red Fort)}} | |||
The ''Khas Mahal'' was the emperor's apartment. It was cooled by the ''Nahr-i-Bihisht''.<ref name="KM" /> Connected to it is the ], an octagonal tower where the emperor appeared before the audience awaiting his presence at the riverbank. Such practices were common among most kings of the time, reflecting the prevailing norms and traditions of royal courts.<ref name="ASI">{{cite web |url=http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort_muthaburz.asp |title=Muthamman-Burj |year=2011 |publisher=] |access-date=12 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131124164735/http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort_muthaburz.asp |archive-date=24 November 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
=== Diwan-i-Khas === | |||
{{Main|Diwan-i-Khas (Red Fort)}} | |||
] | |||
The ''Diwan-i-Khas'', or Hall of Private Audience, was a space dedicated to addressing the official matters and requests of the nobility and members of the royal family. A gate located on the north side of the '']'' provided access to the innermost court of the palace, known as the ''Jalau Khana'', as well as to the ''Diwan-i-Khas''.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.britannica.com/art/Akbar-period-architecture#ref244364 |title=Akbar period architecture |website=britannica.com |url-status=live |access-date=12 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190704025546/https://www.britannica.com/art/Akbar-period-architecture#ref244364 |archive-date=4 July 2019 }}</ref> It is constructed of white marble and inlaid with precious stones. The once-silver ceiling has been restored in wood. ] described witnessing the jewelled Peacock Throne here in the 17th century. At either ends of the hall, over the two outer arches, is an inscription by Persian poet ]: | |||
{{blockquote|If heaven can be on the face of the earth,<br /> | |||
It is this, it is this, it is this. | |||
|author= | |||
|source={{cite web |title=World Heritage Site – Red Fort, Delhi; Diwan-i-Khas |publisher=Archaeological Survey of India |url=http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort_diwanikhas.asp |access-date=15 August 2012}} | |||
}} | |||
{{Wide image|Red Fort courtyard buildings.jpg|1000px|{{centre|Panoramic view of the imperial enclosure.}}{{Centre| From left: '']'', the ''hammam'', ''Divan-i-Khas'', '']'' and the '']''}}|alt=Many white buildings, with large grassy area in foreground}} | |||
=== Hammam === | |||
{{Main|Hammam (Red Fort)}} | |||
] | |||
The '']'' (Arabic: حمّام) were the imperial baths, consisting of three domed rooms with white marble patterned floors.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.liveindia.com/redfort/5.html |title=Hammams Red Fort Delhi |website=liveindia.com |url-status=live |access-date=12 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190930234252/http://www.liveindia.com/redfort/5.html |archive-date=30 September 2019 }}</ref> | |||
It consists of three apartments separated by corridors and crowned with domes. The apartments are illuminated by a coloured glass skylight. | |||
The two rooms flanking the current entrance are believed to have served as bathing spaces for the royal children. The eastern apartment, featuring three fountain basins, was primarily used as a dressing room. Each room had a central fountain, and one included a marble reservoir embedded in the wall. According to legend, perfumed rose-water once flowed from the taps. The western apartment was designated for hot or vapour baths, with heating arrangements installed in its western wall.<ref>{{Cite book|last=John Murray (Firm)|url=https://archive.org/details/handbooktravelle00john|title=A handbook for travellers in India, Burma, and Ceylon .|date=1911|publisher=London : J. Murray; Calcutta : Thacker, Spink, & Co.|others=University of California Libraries}}</ref> | |||
=== Baoli === | |||
] | |||
The ''baoli'' (step-well) is one of the few structures within the Red Fort that survived the widespread demolitions carried out by the British after the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Its chambers were repurposed as a prison and, during the ] of 1945–46, housed INA officers General ], Colonel ], and Colonel ]. The Red Fort ''baoli'' is distinctively designed, featuring two sets of staircases that descend to the well.<ref name="Red Fort Baoli">{{cite web |url=http://agrasenkibaoli.com/red-fort-baoli/ |title=Red Fort Baoli |publisher=agrasenkibaoli.com |access-date=1 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160110195809/http://agrasenkibaoli.com/red-fort-baoli/ |archive-date=10 January 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref> | |||
] | |||
=== Moti Masjid === | |||
{{Main|Moti Masjid (Red Fort)}} | |||
West of the ''hammam'' is the ''Moti Masjid'', the Pearl Mosque. A later addition to the Red Fort, the mosque was built in 1659 as a private place of worship for Emperor ]. This small, three-domed structure is crafted from white marble and features a three-arched screen that opens onto the courtyard.<ref>World Heritage Series – Red Fort. Published by Director General, ], New Delhi, 2009. {{ISBN|978-81-87780-97-7}}</ref> | |||
=== Hira Mahal === | |||
{{Main|Hira Mahal (Red Fort)}} | |||
]'' and its pavilion}}]] | |||
The ''Hira Mahal'' ("Diamond Palace") is a pavilion located on the southern edge of the Red Fort. It was constructed under the patronage of Bahadur Shah II and is situated at the end of the ''Hayat Baksh'' Garden.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.culturalindia.net/indian-forts/delhi-fort.html |title=Red Fort |website=culturalindia.net |url-status=live |access-date=12 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407125951/https://www.culturalindia.net/indian-forts/delhi-fort.html |archive-date=7 April 2019 }}</ref> At the northern edge of the Red Fort stood the ''Moti Mahal'', a twin building that was demolished during or shortly after the 1857 rebellion. The '']'' was the emperor's main study; its name means "Emperor's Tower",<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/delhi/attractions/shahi-burj/a/poi-sig/1337812/356220 |title=Shahi Burj Monument in Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad) |website=lonelyplanet.com |access-date=12 April 2020}}</ref> and it originally featured a '']'' on top. Heavily damaged, the tower is undergoing reconstruction. Facing it is a marble pavilion added by Emperor ].<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jEOwDwAAQBAJ&q=shahi+burj+a+marble+pavilion+added+by+Aurangzeb.&pg=PT15 |title=DK Eyewitness Top 10 Delhi |date=17 December 2019 |publisher=Penguin |isbn=9781465497246 |access-date=12 April 2020}}</ref> | |||
=== Hayat Bakhsh Bagh === | |||
{{Main|Hayat Bakhsh Bagh}} | |||
] | |||
The ''Hayat Bakhsh Bagh'' ({{Langx|fa|حیات بخش باغ|lit=Life-Bestowing Garden}}) is located in the northeast part of the complex. At each end of the canal within the Red Fort is a white marble pavilion, named the ''Sawan'' and ''Bhadon'' Pavilions, after the Hindu months of Sawan and Bhadon. At the center of the reservoir stands the ''Zafar Mahal'', an eponymous red sandstone structure added around 1842 by Bahadur Shah Zafar.<ref>{{cite web |title=World Heritage Site – Red Fort, Delhi; Hayat-Bakhsh Garden and Pavilions |publisher=] |url=http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort_pavilions.asp |access-date=15 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140207091933/http://asi.nic.in/asi_monu_tktd_delhi_redfort_pavilions.asp |archive-date=7 February 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> | |||
Smaller gardens, such as the ''Mehtab Bagh'' (Moonlight Garden), once existed to the west of the main garden but were demolished during the construction of British barracks.<ref name="ASI3" /> There are plans to restore the gardens.<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Restoring-the-lost-glory-of-Red-Fort/articleshow/38398022.cms?referral=PM |title=Restoring the lost glory of Red Fort |website=] |date=23 February 2003 |access-date=12 April 2020}}</ref> Beyond these structures, a road to the north leads to an arched bridge connecting to the ]. | |||
=== Princes' quarter === | |||
The fort lies along what was once the course of the ] (it has since changed its course), that fed the moats that surround most of the wall. The wall at its northeastern corner is adjacent to an older fort, the Salimgarh, a defense built by ] in ]. | |||
{{Main|Princes' quarter (Red Fort)}} | |||
To the north of the ''Hayat Bakhsh Bagh'' and the ''Shahi Burj'' lies the quarter of the imperial princes, which was used by members of the Mughal royal family. Much of this area was demolished by British forces after the 1857 rebellion, with one of the palaces being repurposed into a tea house for soldiers. | |||
== See also == | |||
The Red Fort was conceived as a whole, and subsequent modifications have not taken away from the overall unity of the scheme. In the ], however, occupiers and looters damaged some sections of the palace. After the ], when the Fort was used as a headquarters, the ] occupied and destroyed many of its pavilions and gardens. A program for restoring the surviving parts of the fort began in ]. | |||
* Capital forts/palaces in Delhi, oldest first | |||
==Architectural design== | |||
** ] | |||
The walls of the fort are smoothly dressed, articulated by heavy string-courses along the upper section. They open at two major gates, the Delhi and the Lahore gates. The Lahore Gate is the main entrance; it leads to a long covered bazaar street, the Chatta Chowk, whose walls are lined with stalls for shops. The Chatta Chowk leads to a large open space where it crosses the large north-south street that was originally the division between the fort's military functions, to its west, and the palaces, to its east. The southern end of this street is the Delhi Gate. On axis with the Lahore gate and the Chatta Chowk, on the eastern side of the open space, is the Naqqar Khana ("drum house"), the main gate for the palace, named for the musicians' gallery above it. Beyond this gate is another, larger open space, which originally served as the courtyard of the Diwan-i-Am, the large pavilion for public imperial audiences. An ornate throne-balcony for the emperor stands at the center of the eastern wall of the Diwan, conceived as a copy of the throne of ]. | |||
*** ], earlier than 1000 BCE | |||
*** ] (r. 268 to 232 BCE) of Maurya Empire | |||
** ], by Anangpal I of Tomara dynasty (r. 736-1152 CE) | |||
** ] | |||
*** Lal Kot, by Tomara dynasty (1152-1177 CE) as capital | |||
*** Qila Rai Pithora, the Lal Kot expended by Prithviraj Chauhan (also called Rai Pithora, r. 1177–92 CE) of Chauhan dynasty | |||
** ], by Alauddin Khalji (r. 1296–1316), second ruler of Khalji Dynasty | |||
** ], by Ghiyassudin Tughluq (r. 1320-25 CE) of Tughluq dynasty | |||
** ], by Feroz Shah Tughluq (r. 1351-88 CE) of Tughluq dynasty | |||
** ], in 1546 CE by Salim Shah Suri (r. 1545-54 CE), son of Sher Shah Suri | |||
** Red fort 8n Delhi, built in 1639-48 CE by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan when he moved his capital from Agra to Delhi | |||
** ], built in 1912–29 by colonial British raj | |||
* ] | |||
** ] | |||
** ] | |||
* Other Mughal Red Forts | |||
** ] | |||
** ] | |||
{{Clear}} | |||
The imperial private apartments lie behind the throne. The apartments consist of a row of pavilions that sits on a raised platform along the eastern edge of the fort, looking out onto the river Jamna. The pavilions are connected by a continuous water channel, known as the Nahr-i-Behisht, or the Stream of Paradise, that runs through the center of each pavilion. The water is drawn from the river Jumna, from a tower, the Shah Burj, at the northeastern corner of the fort. The palace is designed as an imitation of paradise as it is described in the Koran; a couplet repeatedly inscribed in the palace reads, "If there be a paradise on earth, it is here, it is here". The planning of the palace is based on Islamic prototypes, but each pavilion reveals in its architectural elements the Hindu influences typical of ] building. The palace complex of the Red Fort is counted among the best examples of the Mughal style at its Shah Jahani peak. | |||
== References == | |||
The two southernmost pavilions of the palace are zenanas, or women's quarters: the Mumtaz Mahal (now a museum), and the larger, lavish Rang Mahal, which has been remarked for its gilded, decorated ceiling and marble pool, fed by the Nahr-i-Behisht. The third pavilion from the south, the Khas Mahal, contains the imperial chambers. These include a suite of bedrooms, prayer rooms, a veranda, and the Mussaman Burj, a tower built against the fortress walls, from which the emperor would show himself to the people in a daily ceremony. The next pavilion is the Diwan-i-Khas, the lavishly decorated hall of private audience, used for ministerial and court gatherings. This finest of the pavilions is ornamented with floral pietra dura patterns on the columns, with precious stones and gilding. A painted wooden ceiling has replaced the original one, of silver inlaid with gold. | |||
{{Reflist}} | |||
== External links == | |||
The next pavilion contains the hammam, or ]s, in the ] style, with Mughal ornamentation in marble and colored stones. To the west of the hammam is the ], the Pearl Mosque. This was a later addition, built in ] as a private mosque for ], Shah Jahan's successor. It is a small, three-domed mosque in carved white marble, with a three-arched screen which steps down to the courtyard. | |||
*{{Commons category-inline}} | |||
* | |||
*Dil Udaan {{!}} | |||
*{{Osmway|264863907}} | |||
{{Delhi landmarks}} | |||
To its north lies a large formal garden, the Hayat Bakhsh Bagh, or 'Life-Bestowing Garden', which is cut through by two bisecting channels of water. A pavilion stands at either end of the north-south channel, and a third, built in ] by the last emperor, ], stands at the center of the pool where the two channels meet. | |||
{{Forts in India}} | |||
{{World Heritage Sites in India}} | |||
{{Mughal Empire|state=collapsed}} | |||
{{Portal bar|India|Monarchy|History|Architecture}} | |||
{{authority control}} | |||
==Modern day significance== | |||
The Red Fort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi, attracting millions of tourists every year. The fort is also the site from which the ] addresses the nation on ], the day India achieved independence from ]. | |||
] | |||
At one point of time, more than 3000 people within the premises of the Delhi Fort complex. But after the ], the fort was captured by ] and was made the headquarters of the ]. After India achieved independence in 1947, the ] took control over the fort. However, in December 2003, the Indian Army handed the fort over to the Indian tourist authorities. | |||
] | ] | ||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] | |||
] |
Latest revision as of 07:07, 7 January 2025
Historical fort in Delhi, India "Lal Qila" redirects here. For other uses, see Lal Qila (disambiguation). This article is about the Red Fort in Delhi. Not to be confused with Red Fort, Muzaffarabad; Kuwait Red Fort; or Agra Fort.
Red Fort | |
---|---|
A view of the Red Fort's Lahori Gate | |
Location | Old Delhi, Delhi, India |
Coordinates | 28°39′21″N 77°14′27″E / 28.65583°N 77.24083°E / 28.65583; 77.24083 |
Height | 18–33 m (59–108 ft) |
Built | 12 May 1639 – 6 April 1648; 376 years ago (6 April 1648) |
Built for | Mughal Empire |
Architect | Ustad Ahmad Lahori |
Architectural style(s) | Indo-Islamic architecture |
Owner |
|
UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
Official name | Red Fort Complex |
Type | Cultural |
Criteria | ii, iii, vi |
Designated | 2007 (31st session) |
Reference no. | 231rev |
Region | Indo-Pacific |
Location in Delhi, India, Asia |
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila (Hindustani: [laːl qiːlaː]) is a historic Mughal fort in Delhi, India, that served as the primary residence of the Mughal emperors. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the construction of the Red Fort on 12 May 1639, following his decision to relocate the Mughal capital from Agra to Delhi. Originally adorned in red and white, the fort's design is attributed to Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the architect behind the Taj Mahal. The Red Fort represents the pinnacle of Mughal architecture during Shah Jahan's reign, blending Persian palace influences with indigenous Indian architectural traditions.
The fort was plundered and stripped of its artwork and jewels during Nadir Shah's invasion of the Mughal Empire in 1739. Most of the fort's marble structures were subsequently demolished by the British following the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The fort's defensive walls were largely undamaged, and the fortress was subsequently used as a garrison.
On 15 August 1947, the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, raised the Indian flag above the Lahori Gate. On India's Independence Day, observed annually on 15 August, the Prime Minister ceremonially raises the Indian tricolour flag at the main gate of the historic fort and delivers a nationally broadcast address from its ramparts.
The Red Fort, as part of the Red Fort Complex, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
Etymology
The name Red Fort is a translation of the Hindustani Lāl Qila (Hindi: लाल क़िला, Urdu: لال قلعہ), deriving from its red sandstone walls. The term Lal is derived from Hindi, meaning "red," while Qila originates from Arabic, signifying "fortress". Originally referred to as the "Blessed Fort" (Qila-i-Mubārak), the Red Fort served as the residence of the imperial family. Agra Fort is also known as Lāl Qila.
History
Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned construction of the Red Fort on 12 May 1638, following his decision to shift his capital from Agra to Delhi. Originally adorned in red and white, the favorite colors of Emperor Shah Jahan, the design of the Red Fort is attributed to the architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori, renowned for his work on the Taj Mahal. The fort straddles the Yamuna River, which fed the moats surrounding most of the walls. Construction began in the sacred Islamic month of Muharram, on 13 May 1638. Supervised by Shah Jahan, it was completed on 6 April 1648. Unlike other Mughal forts, the Red Fort's boundary walls are asymmetrical to contain and subsume the older Salimgarh Fort. The fortress-palace served as the centerpiece of Shahjahanabad, the city now known as Old Delhi. Shah Jahan's successor, Emperor Aurangzeb, enhanced the Red Fort by adding the Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) to the emperor's private quarters. He also constructed barbicans in front of the two main gates to create a more circuitous approach to the palace.
Following the death of Emperor Aurangzeb, the administrative and fiscal structure of the Mughal dynasty experienced a decline, leading to the degeneration of the palace during the 18th century. In 1712, Jahandar Shah was crowned the Mughal Emperor. Within a year of commencing his rule, Shah was murdered and replaced by Farrukhsiyar. In 1739, the Persian emperor Nadir Shah decisively defeated the Mughal army, despite its considerable strength of approximately 200,000 soldiers. Following his victory, he plundered the Red Fort, seizing its treasures, including the legendary Peacock Throne. After three months, Nadir Shah returned to Persia, leaving the city a shadow of its former self and the Mughal Empire severely weakened under Muhammad Shah's reign. The internal weaknesses of the Mughal Empire reduced the Mughals to titular rulers of Delhi. A treaty signed in 1752 established the Marathas as the protectors of the throne in Delhi. The 1758 Maratha victory over the Afghans at Sirhind, and followed by their defeat at Panipat catapulted them into further conflict with Ahmad Shah Durrani.
In 1760, the Marathas stripped and melted the silver ceiling of the Diwan-i-Khas to raise funds for the defence of Delhi from the armies of Ahmed Shah Durrani. In 1761, after the Marathas lost the third battle of Panipat, Delhi was raided by Ahmed Shah Durrani. Ten years later, the Marathas, acting at the behest of the exiled Emperor Shah Alam II, recaptured Delhi from the Rohilla Afghans. Mahadaji Shinde, the commander of the Maratha Army, restored Shah Alam II to the throne.
In 1764, the Jat ruler of Bharatpur, Maharaja Jawahar Singh, attacked Delhi and eventually captured the Red Fort of Delhi on 5 February 1765. Two days later, after exacting tribute from the Mughals, the Jats withdrew their forces from the Red Fort, seizing the Mughal throne—often regarded as the pride of the dynasty—and the fort's doors as trophies. The throne now adorns the palace at Deeg, serving as a historical centerpiece. The doors are located in the Lohagarh Fort of Bharatpur.
In 1783, Sikh Misls led by Jassa Singh Ahluwalia, Jassa Singh Ramgarhia, and Baghel Singh Dhaliwal conquered Delhi and the Red Fort. With a consolidate force consisting of 40,000 troops, they looted the area spanning from Awadh to Jodhpur. After negotiations, the Sikhs forces agreed to withdraw Delhi and reinstate the Mughal emperor Shah Alam II. As a condition of their retreat, the Jats stipulated the construction of seven Sikh gurdwaras in Delhi, including the Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk.
In 1788, a Maratha garrison occupied the Red Fort and Delhi, offering protection to the Mughal Emperor. Mahadaji Shinde negotiated a treaty with the Sikhs, cautioning them against entering Delhi or levying the Rakhi tribute. Control of the fort subsequently passed to the East India Company after the Second Anglo-Maratha War in 1803.
During the Second Anglo-Maratha War, the forces of the East India Company defeated the Maratha troops led by Daulat Rao Scindia in the Battle of Delhi; This event marked the end of Maratha control over Delhi and their authority over the Red Fort. After the battle, the British East India Company took over the administration of Mughal territories and installed a Resident at the Red Fort. The last Mughal emperor to occupy the fort, Bahadur Shah II, became a symbol of the 1857 rebellion against the British East India Company in which the residents of Shahjahanabad participated.
Rang Mahal in the mid-nineteenth centuryRang Mahal todayDespite its position as the seat of Mughal power and its defensive capabilities, the Red Fort was not a site of any engagements during the 1857 uprising against the British. After the rebellion was subdued, Bahadur Shah II left the fort on 17 September and was subsequently apprehended by British forces. Bahadur Shah Zafar II returned to Red Fort as a British prisoner, was tried in 1858, and exiled to Rangoon on 7 October that year. After the conclusion of the rebellion, the British sacked the Red Fort before ordering its systemic demolition. As a result of this widespread destruction, 80% of the fort's structures were demolished, including the stone screen that once connected the pavilions along the river-facing façade of the fort. All furniture was either removed or destroyed; the harem apartments, servants' quarters, and gardens were demolished, and a line of stone barracks erected atop them. Only the marble buildings on the east side at the imperial enclosure escaped complete destruction, although they were damaged while demolition was underway. While the defensive walls and towers were relatively unscathed, over two-thirds of the inner structures were demolished.
Lord Curzon, who served as the Viceroy of India from 1899 to 1905, initiated restoration efforts for the Red Fort. These included the reconstruction of its walls and the revival of its gardens, complete with an updated watering system.
The majority of the jewels and artwork housed in the Red Fort were looted during Nadir Shah's invasion in 1747, and yet again in the aftermath of the Indian Rebellion of 1857. They were eventually sold to private collectors or the British Museum, the British Library, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. For instance, Shah Jahan's jade wine cup and Bahadur Shah II's crown, both looted, are currently held in London. Various requests for restitution have so far been rejected by the British Government.
1911 witnessed the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar. In anticipation of their visit, some buildings were restored. The Red Fort Archaeological Museum was moved from the drum house to the Mumtaz Mahal.
The INA trials, also known as the Red Fort Trials, refer to the courts-martial of a number of officers of the Indian National Army. The first trial was conducted at the Red Fort between November and December 1945.
On 15 August 1947, the first prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, raised the Indian national flag above the Lahore Gate.
After Indian independence, the site experienced few changes, and the Red Fort continued to be used as a military cantonment. A significant portion of the Red Fort remained under the control of the Indian Army until 22 December 2003, when it was transferred to the Archaeological Survey of India for restoration and conservation. In 2009, the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP), prepared by the Archaeological Survey of India under the auspices of a Supreme Court direction to revitalise the fort, was announced.
In recent years, several new museums and galleries have been added to the Red Fort complex. Four of these museums, inaugurated in 2019, are housed in the colonial-era barracks within the complex. Barrack B1 is dedicated to the 1857 War of Independence, Barrack B2 commemorates the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and Barrack B3 focuses on Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army movement. Barrack B4, known as Drishyakala, is a collaboration between the Archaeological Survey of India and the Delhi Art Gallery, showcasing Indian art. The earlier museums, including the Indian Freedom Fighters' Museum, the Mumtaz Mahal Museum, and the Naubat Khana Museum, have been closed, with their exhibits relocated to these newly-established museums.
Archaeological finds
Archaeological excavations at the Red Fort have unearthed several Ochre Coloured Pottery culture artefacts dating from 2600 BCE to 1200 BCE.
Modern era
The Red Fort, the largest monument in Delhi, is one of its most popular tourist destinations and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is a monument of national significance; each year on India's independence day, observed on August 15, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort and delivers a speech from its ramparts, which is broadcast nationwide. The fort also appears on the back of the ₹500 note of the Mahatma Gandhi New Series of the Indian rupee.
The Red Fort's architectural features are in varying states of preservation. While some structures remain relatively intact, retaining their original decorative elements, others have suffered significant damage, with inlaid marble floral designs removed by looters. The water features, once extensive, are now dry. The tea house, though not preserved in its historical form, functions as a working restaurant. The mosque and the hammam (public baths) are closed to visitors, who can only view them through glass windows or marble latticework. Walkways within the complex are deteriorating, and public toilets are available both at the entrance and inside the premises. The Lahori Gate serves as the main entrance, leading to a shopping area with jewelry and craft stores. The complex also houses a museum of "blood paintings," which narrate the stories of 20th-century Indian martyrs, alongside an archaeological museum and an Indian war-memorial museum.
2000 terrorist attack
The Red Fort was the site of a terrorist attack on 22 December 2000, carried out by six Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives. Two soldiers and a civilian were killed in what the news media described as an attempt to derail the then-ongoing India-Pakistan peace talks.
Security
To ensure security and prevent terrorist attacks, stringent measures are implemented around the Red Fort on the eve of the Indian Independence Day. Delhi Police and paramilitary forces maintain a vigilant presence in the neighborhoods surrounding the fort, while National Security Guard sharpshooters are strategically stationed on high-rises near the site. The airspace around the fort is a designated no-fly zone during the celebration, and safe houses exist in the vicinity to which the prime minister and other dignitaries can be whisked off to in the event of an attack.
Adoption controversy
In April 2018, the Dalmia Bharat Group adopted the Red Fort for maintenance, development, and operations under the government's "Adopt A Heritage" scheme, through a contract worth ₹25 crores for a period of five years. A memorandum of understanding was signed with the ministries of Tourism and Culture, and the Archaeological Survey of India. The adoption of the Red Fort by a private entity sparked outcry and widespread debate, drawing criticism from the public, historians, and political parties. The move also led to the trending of the hashtag #IndiaOnSale on Twitter. In May 2018, the Indian National Congress demanded the suspension of the agreement until an "impartial review" could be conducted by the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology or another recognized body of experts.
2021 Indian farmers' Republic Day protest
On 26 January 2021, during the 2021 Indian farmers' Republic Day protest, a coterie of protesting farmers breached the fort, hoisted religious flags from its ramparts, and scaled the domes of the fort. One of the farmers was witnessed climbing a flagpole in front of the fort and hoisting the Nishan Sahib pennant on the flagpole. Provisions with the fort sustained damage owing to clashes between the protestors and the police. The fort was vacated following police announcements.
Architecture
The World Heritage Convention characterises the Red Fort as embodying "the zenith of Mughal creativity". The fort synthesises Islamic palace structure with local traditions, resulting in a confluence of "Persian, Timurid, and Hindu architecture". The fort served as an inspiration for later buildings and gardens across the Indian subcontinent.
The Red Fort spans an area of 254.67 acres (103.06 hectares) and is enclosed by 2.41 kilometers (1.50 miles) of defensive walls. These walls, reinforced with turrets and bastions, vary in height from 18 meters (59 feet) on the river-facing side to 33 meters (108 feet) on the city-facing side. The fort is octagonal, with the north–south axis longer than the east–west axis. The marble, floral decorations and the fort's double domes exemplify later Mughal architecture.
It showcases a high level of ornamentation, and the Kohinoor diamond was reportedly part of the furnishings. The artwork of the Red Fort integrates Persian, European, and Indian artistic traditions, culminating in a distinctive Shahjahani style characterized by its richness in form, expression, and color. The Red Fort is one of India's most significant architectural complexes, encapsulating a rich history and diverse artistic traditions. Even prior to its designation as a monument of national importance in 1913, efforts were undertaken to ensure its preservation for posterity.
The Lahori and Delhi Gates were used by the public, whereas the Khizrabad Gate was reserved for the emperor. The Lahori Gate serves as the main entrance to the Red Fort, leading to the Chhatta Chowk, a domed shopping area often referred to as the covered bazaar.
Major structures
The most significant surviving structures of the Red Fort include its walls and ramparts, the main gates, the audience halls, and the imperial apartments located along the eastern riverbank.
Lahori Gate
Main article: Lahori Gate, DelhiThe Lahori Gate, the primary entrance to the Red Fort, derives its name from its orientation towards the city of Lahore, which was once part of the Mughal Empire. During Aurangzeb's reign, the aesthetic appeal of the Lahori Gate was modified by the construction of a barbican, which Shah Jahan poetically described as "a veil drawn across the face of a beautiful woman." Since 1947, on every Indian Independence Day, the national flag is ceremonially unfurled, and the Prime Minister delivers a speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort.
Delhi Gate
Main article: Delhi Gate (Red Fort)The Delhi Gate serves as the southern public entrance to the Red Fort and shares a similar layout and appearance with the Lahori Gate. Flanking the gate are two life-sized stone elephants positioned to face each other.
Chhatta Chowk
Main article: Chhatta ChowkAdjacent to the Lahori Gate is the Chhatta Chowk (or Meena Bazaar), where silk, jewellery and other items for the imperial household were sold during the Mughal period. This market was earlier known as Bazaar-i-Musaqqaf or Chatta-bazaar (both meaning "roofed market"). The Lahori Gate, the main entrance to the Red Fort, opens into an outer court that intersects with a large north–south street. This street originally separated the fort's military functions, located to the west, from the palaces situated to the east. At its southern end lies the Delhi Gate.
Naubat Khana
Main article: Naubat Khana (Red Fort)In the east wall of the court stands the now-isolated Naubat Khana (Persian: "Waiting Hall"), also known as Nakkar Khana (drum house). Music was performed daily at scheduled times within the Red Fort, and it was required of everyone, except members of the royalty, to dismount during these performances. Later Mughal emperors Jahandar Shah (1712–1713) and Farrukhsiyar (1713–1719) are believed to have been murdered here. The Indian War Memorial Museum is located on the second floor. The vaulted arcade of the Chhatta Chowk ends in the centre of the outer court, which measured 540 by 360 feet (160 m × 110 m). The side arcades and the central tank of the Red Fort were demolished following the 1857 rebellion.
Diwan-i-Aam
Main article: Diwan-i-Aam (Red Fort, Delhi)The inner main court to which the Nakkar Khana led was 540 feet (160 m) wide and 420 feet (130 m) deep, surrounded by guarded galleries. On the far side is the Diwan-i-Aam, the Public Audience Hall. This venue was used to oversee official matters brought forth by commoners, including legal issues such as taxation, inheritance disputes, and matters related to awqaf (endowments).
The hall's columns and engrailed arches exhibit fine craftsmanship, and the hall was originally decorated with white chunam stucco. At the rear of the venue, in a raised recess, the emperor would grant audiences from the marble balcony (jharokha).
The Diwan-i-Aam was also used for state functions. The courtyard (mardana) behind it leads to the imperial apartments.
Mumtaz Mahal
Main article: Mumtaz Mahal (Red Fort)The two southernmost pavilions of the palace are zenanas (women's quarters), consisting of the Mumtaz Mahal, built for Arjumand Banu Begum (Mumtaz Mahal), who was wife of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, and the larger Rang Mahal was designated a resort for royal women. The Mumtaz Mahal houses the Red Fort Archaeological Museum.
Rang Mahal
Main article: Rang Mahal (Red Fort)The Rang Mahal, meaning "Palace of Colours," served as the residence for the emperor's wives and mistresses. It derived its name from its vibrant paintings and intricate decorations, including a mosaic of mirrors. At its center lies a marble pool, which is fed by the Nahr-i-Bihisht ("River of Paradise").
Khas Mahal
Main article: Khas Mahal (Red Fort)The Khas Mahal was the emperor's apartment. It was cooled by the Nahr-i-Bihisht. Connected to it is the Muthamman Burj, an octagonal tower where the emperor appeared before the audience awaiting his presence at the riverbank. Such practices were common among most kings of the time, reflecting the prevailing norms and traditions of royal courts.
Diwan-i-Khas
Main article: Diwan-i-Khas (Red Fort)The Diwan-i-Khas, or Hall of Private Audience, was a space dedicated to addressing the official matters and requests of the nobility and members of the royal family. A gate located on the north side of the Diwan-i-Aam provided access to the innermost court of the palace, known as the Jalau Khana, as well as to the Diwan-i-Khas. It is constructed of white marble and inlaid with precious stones. The once-silver ceiling has been restored in wood. François Bernier described witnessing the jewelled Peacock Throne here in the 17th century. At either ends of the hall, over the two outer arches, is an inscription by Persian poet Amir Khusrow:
Panoramic view of the imperial enclosure. From left: Moti Masjid, the hammam, Divan-i-Khas, Khas Mahal and the Rang MahalIf heaven can be on the face of the earth,
It is this, it is this, it is this.
— "World Heritage Site – Red Fort, Delhi; Diwan-i-Khas". Archaeological Survey of India. Retrieved 15 August 2012.
Hammam
Main article: Hammam (Red Fort)The hammam (Arabic: حمّام) were the imperial baths, consisting of three domed rooms with white marble patterned floors. It consists of three apartments separated by corridors and crowned with domes. The apartments are illuminated by a coloured glass skylight. The two rooms flanking the current entrance are believed to have served as bathing spaces for the royal children. The eastern apartment, featuring three fountain basins, was primarily used as a dressing room. Each room had a central fountain, and one included a marble reservoir embedded in the wall. According to legend, perfumed rose-water once flowed from the taps. The western apartment was designated for hot or vapour baths, with heating arrangements installed in its western wall.
Baoli
The baoli (step-well) is one of the few structures within the Red Fort that survived the widespread demolitions carried out by the British after the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Its chambers were repurposed as a prison and, during the Red Fort Trials of 1945–46, housed INA officers General Shah Nawaz Khan, Colonel Prem Kumar Sahgal, and Colonel Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon. The Red Fort baoli is distinctively designed, featuring two sets of staircases that descend to the well.
Moti Masjid
Main article: Moti Masjid (Red Fort)West of the hammam is the Moti Masjid, the Pearl Mosque. A later addition to the Red Fort, the mosque was built in 1659 as a private place of worship for Emperor Aurangzeb. This small, three-domed structure is crafted from white marble and features a three-arched screen that opens onto the courtyard.
Hira Mahal
Main article: Hira Mahal (Red Fort)The Hira Mahal ("Diamond Palace") is a pavilion located on the southern edge of the Red Fort. It was constructed under the patronage of Bahadur Shah II and is situated at the end of the Hayat Baksh Garden. At the northern edge of the Red Fort stood the Moti Mahal, a twin building that was demolished during or shortly after the 1857 rebellion. The Shahi Burj was the emperor's main study; its name means "Emperor's Tower", and it originally featured a chhatri on top. Heavily damaged, the tower is undergoing reconstruction. Facing it is a marble pavilion added by Emperor Aurangzeb.
Hayat Bakhsh Bagh
Main article: Hayat Bakhsh BaghThe Hayat Bakhsh Bagh (Persian: حیات بخش باغ, lit. 'Life-Bestowing Garden') is located in the northeast part of the complex. At each end of the canal within the Red Fort is a white marble pavilion, named the Sawan and Bhadon Pavilions, after the Hindu months of Sawan and Bhadon. At the center of the reservoir stands the Zafar Mahal, an eponymous red sandstone structure added around 1842 by Bahadur Shah Zafar.
Smaller gardens, such as the Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), once existed to the west of the main garden but were demolished during the construction of British barracks. There are plans to restore the gardens. Beyond these structures, a road to the north leads to an arched bridge connecting to the Salimgarh Fort.
Princes' quarter
Main article: Princes' quarter (Red Fort)To the north of the Hayat Bakhsh Bagh and the Shahi Burj lies the quarter of the imperial princes, which was used by members of the Mughal royal family. Much of this area was demolished by British forces after the 1857 rebellion, with one of the palaces being repurposed into a tea house for soldiers.
See also
- Capital forts/palaces in Delhi, oldest first
- Purana Qila
- Indraprastha, earlier than 1000 BCE
- Edicts & additions by Ashoka the Great (r. 268 to 232 BCE) of Maurya Empire
- Anangpur, by Anangpal I of Tomara dynasty (r. 736-1152 CE)
- Qila Rai Pithora
- Lal Kot, by Tomara dynasty (1152-1177 CE) as capital
- Qila Rai Pithora, the Lal Kot expended by Prithviraj Chauhan (also called Rai Pithora, r. 1177–92 CE) of Chauhan dynasty
- Siri Fort, by Alauddin Khalji (r. 1296–1316), second ruler of Khalji Dynasty
- Tughlaqabad Fort, by Ghiyassudin Tughluq (r. 1320-25 CE) of Tughluq dynasty
- Feroz Shah Kotla, by Feroz Shah Tughluq (r. 1351-88 CE) of Tughluq dynasty
- Salimgarh Fort, in 1546 CE by Salim Shah Suri (r. 1545-54 CE), son of Sher Shah Suri
- Red fort 8n Delhi, built in 1639-48 CE by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan when he moved his capital from Agra to Delhi
- Rashtrapati Bhavan, built in 1912–29 by colonial British raj
- Purana Qila
- History of Delhi
- Other Mughal Red Forts
References
- ^ "Red Fort Complex". World Heritage List. UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Archived from the original on 3 August 2009. Retrieved 15 November 2009.
- "Red Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007". Lonely Planet. Archived from the original on 29 April 2012. Retrieved 4 August 2012.
- "qila | Meaning of qila in English by Shabdkosh English Hindi Dictionary". Shabdkosh Dictionary. Archived from the original on 11 November 2013. Retrieved 2 June 2018.
- "qila | Definition of qila in English by Oxford Dictionaries". Oxford Dictionaries | English. Archived from the original on 3 April 2018. Retrieved 3 April 2018.
- William M. Spellman (1 April 2004). Monarchies 1000–2000. Reaktion Books. ISBN 978-1-86189-087-0. Archived from the original on 14 December 2011. Retrieved 5 August 2012.
- Mehrdad Kia; Elizabeth H. Oakes (1 November 2002). Social Science Resources in the Electronic Age. Greenwood Publishing Group. ISBN 978-1-57356-474-8. Archived from the original on 11 January 2014. Retrieved 5 August 2012.
- Nelson, Dean (20 May 2011). "Delhi's Red Fort was originally white". The Daily Telegraph (UK).
- "Ustad Ahmad – oi". oxfordindex.oup.com. Retrieved 8 December 2019.
- "Building the Taj – who designed the Taj Mahal". PBS. Archived from the original on 18 February 2014. Retrieved 13 August 2013.
- "Red Fort lies along the River Yamuna". Archived from the original on 14 August 2012. Retrieved 4 August 2012.
- ^ "Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan for Red Fort, Delhi" (PDF). Archaeological Survey of India. March 2009. Archived (PDF) from the original on 8 May 2012. Retrieved 14 August 2012.
- Elliot, H. M. (Henry Miers) (26 September 1875). "Shah Jahan". [Lahore : Sh. Mubarak Ali. Retrieved 26 September 2020 – via Internet Archive.
- "List of Muhammadan and Hindu monuments vol.1". 1916. Retrieved 4 March 2020.
- Pinto, Xavier; Myall, E. G. (2009). Glimpses of History. Frank Brothers. p. 129. ISBN 978-81-8409-617-0. Archived from the original on 11 January 2014. Retrieved 25 September 2016.
- "Battle of Karnal | Summary". Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved 24 May 2021.
- Mehta, J. L. (2005). Advanced Study in the History of Modern India: Volume One: 1707–1813. Sterling Publishers Pvt. Ltd. p. 134. ISBN 978-1-932705-54-6. Archived from the original on 12 January 2014. Retrieved 25 September 2016.
- Jayapalan, N. (2001). History of India. Atlantic Publishers & Distri. p. 249. ISBN 978-81-7156-928-1. Archived from the original on 12 January 2014. Retrieved 25 September 2016.
- Advanced Study in the History of Modern India: 1707–1813 – Jaswant Lal Mehta – Google Books. Google Books. Retrieved 29 July 2013.
- Roy, Kaushik (2004). India's Historic Battles: From Alexander the Great to Kargil. Permanent Black, India. pp. 80–81. ISBN 978-81-78241-09-8.
- Elphinstone, Mountstuart (1841). History of India. John Murray, London. p. 276.
- Kulkarni, Uday S. (2012). Solstice at Panipat, 14 January 1761. Pune: Mula Mutha Publishers. p. 345. ISBN 978-81-921080-0-1.
- Kumar Maheshwari, Kamalesh; Wiggins, Kenneth W. (1989). Maratha Mints and Coinage. Indian Institute of Research in Numismatic Studies. p. 140. Archived from the original on 12 January 2014. Retrieved 25 September 2016.
- Dalrymple, William. The Anarchy.
- Meena, P R. RPSC RAS Prelims: History of Rajasthan Complete Study Notes With MCQ. New Era Publication.
- Gupta, Devesh. Rajasthan District G.K.: English Medium. Atharv Publication. p. 134.
- Murphy, Anne (29 November 2012). The Materiality of the Past: History and Representation in Sikh Tradition. OUP USA. ISBN 978-0-19-991629-0.
- Murphy, Anne (2012). The Materiality of the Past: History and Representation in Sikh Tradition. Oxford University Press. p. 151. ISBN 978-0-19-991629-0. Archived from the original on 27 September 2013. Retrieved 25 September 2016.
- Mayaram, Shail (2003). Against History, Against State: Counterperspectives from the Margins. Columbia University Press. ISBN 978-0-231-12731-8.
- Mody, Krutika. "Bahadur Shah II "Zafar"'s significance with Red Fort". Archived from the original on 2 September 2012. Retrieved 4 August 2012.
- Soofi, Delhi's Belly| Mayank Austen (19 August 2011). "The other red corridor". mint. Retrieved 23 May 2021.
- William Dalrymple (2007). "Introduction". The Last Mughal. Penguin Books. p. 7. ISBN 978-0-14-310243-4.
- "How the Red Fort Became the Site for India s Independence Day Celebrations". thewire.in. Retrieved 15 May 2024.
- Sirur, Simrin; ThePrint (30 January 2021). "Red Fort isn't just a historic monument. Its breach crossed a red line in Indian mind". ThePrint. Retrieved 15 May 2024.
- Eugenia W Herbert (2013). Flora's Empire: British Gardens in India. Penguin Books Limited. p. 333. ISBN 978-81-8475-871-9.
- Nelson, Sara C. (21 February 2013). "Koh-i-Noor Diamond Will Not Be Returned To India, David Cameron Insists". The Huffington Post. Archived from the original on 19 August 2013. Retrieved 27 July 2013.
- PTI (15 August 2013). "Manmohan first PM outside Nehru-Gandhi clan to hoist flag for 10th time". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 21 December 2013. Retrieved 13 May 2014.
- India. Ministry of Defence (2005). Sainik samachar. Director of Public Relations, Ministry of Defence. Archived from the original on 30 September 2013. Retrieved 5 August 2012.
- Muslim India. Muslim India. 2004. Archived from the original on 30 September 2013. Retrieved 5 August 2012.
- "Red Fort facelift to revive Mughal glory in 10 years : Mail Today Stories, News – India Today". Indiatoday.intoday.in. 1 June 2009. Archived from the original on 13 December 2013. Retrieved 3 January 2014.
- "CHAPTER-10_revised_jan09.pmd" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 8 May 2012. Retrieved 13 May 2014.
- "CHAPTER-00_revisedfeb09.pmd" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 8 May 2012. Retrieved 13 May 2014.
- "Four museums at Red Fort open window to battle for freedom". The Times of India. 24 January 2019. ISSN 0971-8257. Retrieved 16 August 2024.
- Singh, Upinder (2008). A History of Ancient and Early Medieval India From the Stone Age to the 12th Century. Pearson Education India. p. 218. ISBN 9788131711200.
- Schreitmüller, Karen; Dhamotharan, Mohan (CON); Szerelmy, Beate (CON) (14 February 2012). Baedeker India. Baedeker. p. 253. ISBN 978-3-8297-6622-7. Archived from the original on 27 September 2013. Retrieved 25 August 2012.
- Devashish, Dasgupta (2011). Tourism Marketing. Pearson Education India. p. 79. ISBN 978-81-317-3182-6. Archived from the original on 29 September 2013. Retrieved 25 August 2012.
- Murthy, Raja (23 February 2012). "Mughal 'paradise' gets tortuous makeover". Asia Times Online. South Asia. Archived from the original on 20 November 2012. Retrieved 25 August 2012.
- "Singh becomes third PM to hoist flag at Red Fort for 9th time". Business Standard. 15 August 2012. Retrieved 17 August 2012.
- "Issue of ₹ 500 banknotes inset letter 'E' in Mahatma Gandhi (New) series after demonitization". Reserve Bank of India. 8 November 2016. Archived from the original on 9 November 2016. Retrieved 9 November 2016.
- "Red Fort attack will not affect peace moves". 19 August 2012. Archived from the original on 3 October 2012. Retrieved 19 August 2012.
- "Red Fort terrorist attacks". 31 March 2012. Archived from the original on 13 May 2013. Retrieved 4 August 2012.
- ^ "Security tightened across Delhi on I-Day eve". Daily News and Analysis. 14 August 2012. Archived from the original on 18 August 2012. Retrieved 17 August 2012.
- "Tight security ensures safe I-Day celebration". The Asian Age. 16 August 2012. Archived from the original on 17 November 2017. Retrieved 17 August 2012.
- "Rain Brings Children Cheer, Gives Securitymen a Tough Time". The Hindu. 16 August 2011. Archived from the original on 30 December 2013. Retrieved 27 July 2012.
- Manish, Sai (29 April 2018). "Dalmia Bharat group to adopt Delhi's iconic Red Fort for five years". Business Standard. Archived from the original on 13 May 2019. Retrieved 7 September 2019.
- Krishna, Navmi (30 April 2018). "Red Fort adoption row: The long list of Monument Mitras". The Hindu. Retrieved 7 September 2019.
- Nettikkara, Samiha (30 April 2018). "Indians upset over Red Fort monument 'adoption'". BBC. Archived from the original on 9 July 2019. Retrieved 7 September 2019.
- Pathak, Vikas (2 May 2018). "Historians seek review of Red Fort contract". The Hindu. Retrieved 7 September 2019.
- "India protest: Farmers breach Delhi's Red Fort in huge tractor rally". BBC News. BBC. 26 January 2021. Retrieved 28 January 2021.
- Dawn.com (26 January 2021). "In pictures: Indian farmers enter Delhi's Red Fort as protests break out across the country". Dawn. Pakistan. Retrieved 29 January 2021.
- "ASI shuts Red Fort till January 31 for visitors after vandalism by tractor rally protesters". 28 January 2021. Retrieved 28 January 2021.
- N. L. Batra (May 2008). Delhi's Red Fort by the Yamuna. Niyogi Books. ISBN 9780856676543. Archived from the original on 9 October 2013. Retrieved 5 August 2012.
- ^ Langmead; Garnaut, Christine (2001). Encyclopedia of Architectural and Engineering Feats. ABC-CLIO. p. 178. ISBN 978-1-57607-112-0.
- "World Heritage Site – Red Fort, Delhi". Archaeological Survey of India. Archived from the original on 24 December 2014. Retrieved 15 August 2012.
- Fanshawe.H.C (1998). Delhi, Past and Present. Asian Educational Services. pp. 1–8, general introduction. ISBN 978-81-206-1318-8. Archived from the original on 15 December 2019. Retrieved 10 June 2009.
- Sharma p.143
- Mahtab Jahan (2004). "Dilli's gates and windows". MG The Milli Gazette. Archived from the original on 19 June 2017. Retrieved 17 May 2009.
- "World heritage site". Asi.nic.in. Archived from the original on 1 November 2015. Retrieved 3 August 2015.
- Kuriakose, Anthony (15 January 2011). "Chatta Chowk: A market for all reasons". deccanherald.com. Archived from the original on 22 January 2011. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "Lal Qila (Red Fort) – Naubat Khana". indiapicks.com. Archived from the original on 11 March 2018. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- ^ "A handbook for travellers in India, Burma, and Ceylon". Archived from the original on 24 December 2013. Retrieved 3 January 2014.
- Lach, F.; Kley, Edwin J. Van (1998). Asia in the Making of Europe, Volume III: A Century of Advance. Book 2, South Asia. University of Chicago Press. p. 689. ISBN 9780226466972.
- ^ "Rang Mahal Delhi, India". archnet.org. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- ^ "Khas Mahal". lonelyplanet.com. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "Muthamman-Burj". Archaeological Survey of India. 2011. Archived from the original on 24 November 2013. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "Akbar period architecture". britannica.com. Archived from the original on 4 July 2019. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "Hammams Red Fort Delhi". liveindia.com. Archived from the original on 30 September 2019. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- John Murray (Firm) (1911). A handbook for travellers in India, Burma, and Ceylon . University of California Libraries. London : J. Murray; Calcutta : Thacker, Spink, & Co.
- "Red Fort Baoli". agrasenkibaoli.com. Archived from the original on 10 January 2016. Retrieved 1 August 2015.
- World Heritage Series – Red Fort. Published by Director General, Archaeological Survey of India, New Delhi, 2009. ISBN 978-81-87780-97-7
- "Red Fort". culturalindia.net. Archived from the original on 7 April 2019. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "Shahi Burj Monument in Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad)". lonelyplanet.com. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- DK Eyewitness Top 10 Delhi. Penguin. 17 December 2019. ISBN 9781465497246. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
- "World Heritage Site – Red Fort, Delhi; Hayat-Bakhsh Garden and Pavilions". Archaeological Survey of India. Archived from the original on 7 February 2014. Retrieved 15 August 2012.
- "Restoring the lost glory of Red Fort". Times of India. 23 February 2003. Retrieved 12 April 2020.
External links
- Media related to Red Fort at Wikimedia Commons
- Delhi Tourism | Red Fort
- Dil Udaan | Red Fort Blog
- Geographic data related to Red Fort at OpenStreetMap
Landmarks of Delhi | |
---|---|
Buildings and structures | |
Religious sites | |
Memorials | |
Streets and plazas | |
Parks and gardens | |
Mughal Empire | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Emperors | |||||||||
Administration |
| ||||||||
Conflicts |
| ||||||||
Architecture |
| ||||||||
See also | |||||||||
Successor states |
- Red Fort
- Archaeological monuments in Delhi
- Buildings and structures completed in 1648
- Forts in Delhi
- Indian Army bases
- Indian National Army trials
- 17th-century fortifications
- Monuments of National Importance in Delhi
- Mughal fortifications
- Palaces in Delhi
- Royal residences in India
- World Heritage Sites in India
- 1648 establishments in India