Colors, Lights, Entertainment, And More

Rang Mahal, meaning “Palace of colors,” is a palace located within the Red Fort in Delhi city. The place served as residence for the Emperor’s wives and mistresses.

History

Rang Mahal is one of the three chief buildings that Emperor Shahjahan built inside the Red Fort. The other two buildings are Khas Mahal, which was the private chamber for the Emperor, and Diwan-e-Khas, which was the hall of private audience.

Rang Mahal was an imperial harem. During the reign of Shah Jahan, it was called Imtiyaz Mahal or the Palace of Distinction. The British seized the fort in 1857 and used it as a mess hall for a short period.

Rang Mahal opens towards the Yamuna River ontheeastern side. Today, the river has receded by about a couple of kilometers away from the building. Earlier, magic shows, elephant fights, and other recreational activities were done on the bank of the river every evening for entertainment of the queens.

Architecture

Rang Mahal rests on a basement. It has a big hall. Its interiors are painted. This gave it the name “Rang Mahal” or “Palace of Colors.” The building is divided in six compartments through engrailed arches, which are attached on piers.

The two compartments feature marble dados at their northern and southern ends. Ceilings and walls of these compartments are embellished with tiny mirror pieces. Their reflections create a beautiful effect. These compartments are called Sheesh Mahal or House of Mirrors.

Rang Mahal features a grand fountain at the center. It is in the shape of lotus flower. The fountain was kept filled with water 24x7 through a canal, which was known as Nahar-e-Bashisht or Canal of Paradise.

Information for Tourists

• Nearest metro station: Chandni Chowk
• Timings: All days of the week, except Monday, from sunrise to sunset.
• Location: Netaji Subhash Road, Chandini Chowk, Delhi
• Best time to visit: October to March

How to Reach

Delhi is well connected to all major cities of India through railway, roadway, and airway. Tourists can avail themselves of city bus services, cab services, and metro train services within the city.