History Behind The Red Fort (lal Qila) Delhi

 

 The Red Fort (lal Qila), Delhi (SOURCE WIKIPEDIA)

Introduction

One of the greatest historical monuments of India is the Red Fort which is commonly referred to as Lal Qila. Located in the centre of Old Delhi, it is an embodiment of the glory of the Mughal Empire and a permanent reminder of the political, cultural and historical process of India. The fort has changed through the centuries into a strong national icon that was once a royal palace.

The Red Fort walls in the background, viewed from the top of Jama Masjid's tower (WIKIPEDIA)

Origin and Early History

The Red Fort is dated back to the 17 th century when the newly established capital of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan transferred his capital to Delhi and left Agra. He built a great city referred to as Shahjahanabad and the central, most significant building of this city was the Red Fort. The purpose of the fort was to show the power of the empire and the royal authority.

Diwan-e-Khas (Wikipedia)

Building of the Red Fort

The Red fort construction started in 1638 and finished in 1648. The fort was constructed mainly of red sandstone which gives it its name and makes it look striking. The decoration was also done with white marble within the palaces and halls. The structure is a combination of Persian, Islamic and Indian architecture, and the architectural perfection of the Mughal dynasty.

The Rung Muhul. The Rang Mahal inside the Red Fort (Wikipedia)

Design and Characteristics of Structure.

Massive walls surround the fort and there are two major gates Lahori Gate and the Delhi gate. The key structures that are located within the compound are the Diwan-i-Aam where the emperor used to speak to the people and the Diwan-i-Khas, used as a private meeting with the nobles and foreigners. The royal residences became beautified, and comfortable with flowing water channels called the Nahr-i-Bihisht.

Significance under the Mughal Rule. The Red Fort was the center of Mughal authority which lasted almost two centuries. It was the seat of government, civilisation, and religion. This fort built the greatest empire in India and from this fort emperor governed their empire and witnessed their rise and subsequent demise. British Period and Decline The British occupied the Red Fort after the Revolt of 1857. Creating numerous sections of the fort, the Mughal character of it was lost and altered to military purposes. Numerous pieces of art and buildings were destroyed at this time and it constituted a very sad part of the history of the fort.

Plaque highlighting Red Fort's layout (Wikipedia)

Participation in Freedom Movement in India.

The Red Fort was significant in the struggle of India to come up with an independent state. These trials were conducted in the form of Indian National Army (INA) that elicited sentiments of great nationalism among Indians. These happenings enhanced the solidarity and will of the people to fight the British rule. Significance since Independence. The Red Fort became a national monument after the independence of India in the year 1947. It was later used as a platform on which the Prime Minister addresses the nation during the Independence Day after hoisting the national flag. The fort has gained this tradition and has become an emblem of the freedom, democracy, and national pride.

Cultural and Tourist Value The Red Fort is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and millions of tourists visit the fort annually. The fort has museums and exhibitions as well as cultural programs that enable individuals to know about the rich past of India. The sound-and-light performance further makes its history come alive to the visitor.

The Delhi Gate, almost identical in appearance to the Lahori Gate (wikipedia)

Geographic Location

The Red Fort was situated in the close vicinity to Yamuna River, thus in Old Delhi, to ensure defense of the city, as well as, facilitate trade and administration. According to historical maps, the immaculate fort was the hub of the city of Shahjahanabad. Conclusion The Red Fort is not merely a historical building, it is an everlasting image of the Indian heritage. It has seen unfold many historic events since the times of Mughal emperors to the period of freedom struggle and in the contemporary India. Even today there is still a reverence, patriotism and appreciation of the rich Indian history with its imprint.