RED FORT

Current Context: A recent study has found that a ‘black crust’ is forming on the walls of the Red Fort due to high levels of air pollution in Delhi.

ABOUT RED FORT

• Location: Delhi, India (on banks of river Yamuna)
• Built By: Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639
• Architects: Ustad Ahmad Lahauri and Ustad Hamid
• Original Name: Quila-e-Mubarak (Blessed Fort)
• Purpose: Palace fort of Shahjahanabad, new Mughal capital
• UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (designated in 2007)
• Historical Significance:
  • Served as Mughal emperors’ residence for nearly 200 years (until 1857)
  • Every year on Independence Day (15 August), Indian Prime Minister hoists the national flag and addresses the nation from its ramparts

ARCHITECTURE OF RED FORT

• Massive red sandstone walls (75 feet high)
• Octagonal layout (longer north-south axis)
• Combination of Persian, Timurid, and Hindu design traditions
• Famous Structures:
  • Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) – 60 red sandstone pillars
  • Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) – white marble pavilion
• 2 Main Gates: Lahore Darwaza (west) and Delhi Darwaza (south)
• Features palaces, entertainment halls, geometrical gardens, canals, and an ornate mosque