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The Red Fort, in the Hindi language, is also known as Lal Qila. It is a venerated monument in India that holds great historical significance. This magnificent structure is located in the heart of Old Delhi and is a symbol of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Red Fort was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Let’s delve into the Red Fort history, features, and intriguing facts about this architectural wonder.
Contents
| Commissioned by | Shah Jahan |
| Also Known as | Lal Qila |
| Architect | Ustad Ahmad Lahori |
| Location | Old Delhi |
| Timings | 9:30 am to 4:30 pm; closed on Mondays |
| Entry Fee for fort | ₹ 35 for Indians; ₹ 500 for foreigners (changes applicable) |
| Nearest Metro Station | Lal Qila |
| Video Camera | ₹ 25 (changes applicable) |
| Status | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
History of Red Fort (Lal Qila)
The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a historic fort located in Old Delhi, India. It was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 when he decided to shift the capital from Agra to Shahjahanabad (now Old Delhi). The fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years, until the British took control in 1857.
- Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, as a symbol of his new capital city, Shahjahanabad (now Old Delhi). The construction of the fort took around nine years and was completed in the year 1648.
- The fort was designed by Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the same architect who designed the iconic Taj Mahal.
- Originally, the fort was in red and white, but later fort was made of red sandstone, which gives it a distinct reddish hue. The sandstone was sourced from the nearby regions of Rajasthan.
- Red Fort historically served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors like Aurangzeb, Jahandar Shah, Muhammad Shah and Bahadur Shah II for nearly two centuries.
- Its structure had a combination of Indian traditions and Persian palace architecture. The Red Fort’s history shows the art from the Timurid to the Islamic period.
Features of the Red Fort
Here are some of the key features of the Red Fort:
- The Red Fort is surrounded by high walls that stretch for more than 2 kilometres. These walls served as a defensive measure and were built to withstand enemy attacks. They stand around 18 meters tall, presenting an imposing sight.
- Fusion of Persian, Timurid, and Indian elements. Intricate floral carvings, arches, inlay work, and lattice screens are common throughout.
- Its features include intricate carvings, delicate marble work and ornate patterns that highlight the skilled craftsmanship of the Mughal era.
- The Diwan-i-Aam, or the Hall of Public Audience, is a grand chamber where the emperor would address the common people. This open-air pavilion was used for public gatherings and important ceremonies.
- The Rang Mahal, or Palace of Colours, served as the emperor’s harem quarters. Its stunning interiors were embellished with the vibrancy of colours, mirrors and beautiful motifs.
- Lal Qila also hosts a captivating sound and light show in the evenings, which takes visitors on a historical journey, narrating the stories of the Mughal era and the fort’s significance.
Also Read – The Taj Mahal An Architectural Marvel of India
10 Interesting Facts About Red Fort
- The Red Fort is where the first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, hoisted the national flag and delivered a speech on 15 August 1947.
- Every year on Independence Day, a tradition that has been practised since 1947, the Prime Minister of India hoists the Indian flag, followed by a speech.
- In recognition of its architectural and historical significance, the Red Fort was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.
- After the 1857 revolt, the British demolished many inner palaces and gardens to make way for army barracks.
- The Red Fort complex spans over 250 acres and is shaped like an irregular octagon.
Fun Fact – The Red Fort is featured on the backside of the Rs 500 Indian currency note.
- With the invasion of Nadir Shah, the army plundered the artwork and jewels of the fort in 1739. Further, the British demolished most of the marble structures because of the revolt of 1857.
- It was built near the western bank of the Yamuna River, which has dried up with time.
- In 2019, PM Narendra Modi added five more museums to the feather of the Red Fort, namely – The Museum of 1857, the Subhash Chandra Bose Museum, Drishyakala, Yaad-e-Jallian and Azaadi ke Deewane.
- The Chatta Chowk, an indoor market just inside the entrance, was once a royal shopping area and now sells handicrafts and souvenirs.
- On August 15, 1947, the Indian tricolour was first hoisted here by Jawaharlal Nehru, marking India’s freedom from British rule.
Also Read – 10 Important Monuments in India for Competitive Exams
Attraction Inside Red Fort
Inside the Red Fort lies a world of stunning Mughal architecture and rich cultural legacy.
Each corner tells a story from royal courts to private palaces and vibrant marketplaces.
| Name | Features |
| Lahori Gate | Main Entrance to the Red Fort |
| Delhi Gate | Public Entrance from the Southern Side |
| Khas Mahal | Residence of the emperor |
| Rang Mahal | Emperor’s harem quarters, where the emperor’s wives and mistresses |
| Chatta Chowk | A Long passage and a way with shops and market. |
| Moti Masjid | Private mosque built especially for Aurangzeb |
| Hira Mahal | Built by Bahadur Shah II, a marble pavilion consisting of a famed diamond (yet not found) |
| Hayat Baksh Bagh | The grand garden situated inside the fort |
| Baoli | A step-well built with a unique design |
| Nahr-i-Bihisht | A canal that flows through the different pavilions |
| Tea House | Prince’s quarters, currently converted as a restaurant |
| Mumtaz Mahal | The Red Fort Archaeological Museum is situated inside the palace |
| Hammam | The monarchial baths for emperors and their wives and mistresses. |
| Naubat Khana | Currently converted into the Indian War Memorial Museum |
| Diwan-i-Aam | Audience hall for the public |
| Diwan-i-Khas | Audience hall for private use |
Along with these attractions, there are the Princes’ quarters, which were used as monarchial quarters and for the members of the royal Mughal family.
Timings of Red Fort
In 2018, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), took the initiative of illuminating the fort at night with lights. Another attraction is the accredited best light and sound show at the fort. The timings for visiting the Monument and watching the mesmerising light and sound shows are –
| Purpose | Timings |
| Entry | 9:30 am to 4:30 pm |
| Week Entry | Except every Monday |
| Light and Sound Show | For Hindi Shows – (Based on Season) 7.30 PM to 8.30 PM (May to Aug) 7 PM to 8 PM (Sep & Oct) 6 PM to 7 PM (Nov to Jan) 7 PM to 8 PM (Feb to Apr) |
| For English Shows – (Based on Season) 9 PM to 10 PM (May to Aug) 8.30 PM to 9.30 PM (Sep & Oct) 7.30 PM to 8.30 PM (Nov to Jan) 8.30 PM to 9.30 PM (Feb to Apr) | |
| Duration of the Show | 60 minutes |
Other Attractions Nearby Red Fort
| Shri Digambar Jain Lal Mandir (300 m) | Gauri Shankar Mandir (300 m) |
| Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib (750m) | Jama Masjid (900m) |
| Chandni Chowk Market (1.2 km) | Paranthey wali Gali (1.5 km) |
| Raj Ghat (2km) | Khari Baoli Spice Market (3km) |
| India Gate (7km) | Humayun’s Tomb (9 km) |
At present, the Archaeological Survey of India has control of the monument. The Red Fort continues to stand as a majestic symbol of India’s cultural heritage and architectural brilliance. Its rich history, awe-inspiring features and captivating facts make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and tourists.
FAQ
The Red Fort in Delhi is said to have been constructed by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The museum holds various items that are categorised thematically and displayed in six galleries representing the Mughal era.
Emperor Akbar initiated the construction of the Red Fort of Agra in 1565, which was later modified by his grandson Shah Jahan. The fort is also known as “Fort Rouge” or “Qila-i-Akbari”, was built using red sandstone and is a significant historical monument.
The Taj Mahal is constructed with white marble, and the Red Fort is built with red stone; these two are iconic structures from the Mughal era. The Taj Mahal, specifically, is a tomb built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in honour of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
The real name of the fort is Red Fort or Lal Qila; it was also called Qila-i-Mubārak, which means “Blessed Fort”.
It was the main residence of the Mughal emperors and later became a symbol of Indian independence—the Prime Minister hoists the national flag here every Independence Day (August 15)
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That’s all about the Red Fort history! If you want to know more about topics like this, then visit our general knowledge page! Alternatively, you can also read our blog on general knowledge for competitive exams!
