Royal Quarters, Red Fort

The royal quarters in Red fort consist of number of buildings built and adorned in Mogul style.

One of the interesting features of these buildings is Nahar i Bahisht (River from Paradise). A small canal running the length of the main building. Keeping it cool and giving a visual interest.

The royal dressing room, bathroom, prayer room and of course Rang Mahal. The royals were aware of the importance of nature and walks for long life. They called their garden Hayat Baksh (Life giving). The Sawan Bhadon pavilions – such poetic names for the buildings. The tank in one of them has niches for candles in sides. Imagine the view!

 

Royal Coolth

Alai Minar

Alai Minar in Qutub complex is an unfinished endeavour of Allauddin Khilji.

unfinished Glory

Eccentric Allauddin Khilji had grand plans for the Qutub complex. He expanded the “Quwat Ul Islam” mosque, built the magnificent Alai darwaja. He also started work on alai minar which was to be twice as tall and grander than Qutub. Destiny did not give Allauddin time to finish his grandiose dream. He could not finish it in 20 years that he had. His descendants were more practical and did not pursue his grand dream. Result is a monument that is  a perfect commentary on Allauddin Khilji - giving you a glimpse at what could have been even though it is nothing but a pile of stones.