Red Fort
The biggest and grandest city in India, a jewel of the subcontinent as famous as the glittering Koh-i-Noor diamond – such was the fame of Shahjahanabad, and the Red Fort.
[Download our comic-style Pictoguide to the Red Fort]
Red Fort by Satbir Singh
Monument to Mughal Opulence
Built in 1638-48 by emperor Shah Jahan, the city was the immodest embodiment of the opulence and success of the Mughal empire. No cost was spared in building this great walled city and especially its fort, in which would reside the Emperor of Hindustan. Marble and sandstone were lavishly used and embellished with stone inlay decorations strongly influenced by the West. The ceilings of the Harem were made of silver and a stream of water flowed through the entire grounds, imitating the great river Yamuna that flowed by its east side.
Rise and Fall of the Red Fort
But, even as it represented the best of times, the fort also witnessed the worst of times as successive rulers lay wasted by indulgence and debauchery. In the later Mughal period the grand city fell prey to frequent attacks by looters and rivals, some of whom even infiltrated the palaces and carried away the riches within including the legendary Peacock Throne made of gold and encrusted with precious stones.
The 1857 Uprising
The Fort had its second lease of life during an important revolt of Indian soldiers against the officers of the British East India Company in 1857. The soldiers rallied under the banner of Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal king, and for a brief period the degraded and powerless throne once again became significant in the nation’s history. The revolt ended in defeat but the fort regained its importance as a military centre, which significance continues till this day as it is partly occupied by the Indian Army. Every year the Indian flag is hoisted here on Independence Day.
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Though only part of it is open to the public (the rest being occupied by the Indian Army), a visit to Delhi isn’t complete without a tour of the Red Fort. Save an hour or so to visit the nearby Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk as well. And hey, do remember to download a Go!Places guide before you go!
Complete reference to the Red Fort, UNESCO World Heritage site | colour photos and info blurbs in a comic-style layout | includes 3D map and bibliography | 18 page PDF download
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