The state of Rajasthan, that lies in the northwestern
part of the Indian subcontinent, is a land of myths and legends. It affords
an abundant number of architectural attractions along with customs and
traditions that have been a part of people's life here for centuries.
Delving deep into the history of the state, one gets closer to the history
of India and gains an insight into an aspect that speaks volumes of the
cultural India. Forts, palaces, fairs, festivals, tradition, cuisine and
culture can all be experienced and understood in this kingly state of India.
The
grand and gilded City Palace of Jaipur is one of the most exalted palaces in
Rajasthan. A splendid fusion of the Rajput and the Mughal styles of
architecture, the palace comprises of a chain of minor palaces, coutyards,
gardens and stately halls. The City Palace Complex is an effort of Maharaja
Jai Singh II who belonged to the Kachhwaha clan of Rajputs. Though the
palace was his brainchild, subsequent additions were made by the maharajas
who followed him.
Entering the first courtyard, you get to see the Mubarak Mahal which is one
of the finely erected buildings inside the palace premises. The mahal was
set up by Maharaja Madho Singh II in the 19th century. From here, as you
move forward through the splendid gateway, you get to the Diwan-i-Khas or
the Hall of Private Audience. The exquisite hall bears two silver vessels
that have been included in the Guinness Book of World Records. Diwan-i-Am or
the Hall of Public Audience is another attraction here.
The most exalted of all inside the City Palace is the elegant Chandra
Mahal. The palace is an exhibition in itself and you can observe a lot of
wonderful paintings, exquisite mirror work and intricate floral patterns.
Representing the craftsmanship of the artisans of the bygone eras, the
palace is one of its kind.
The imposing and gilded City Palace stands in seven stories, with each of
the stories bearing a distinct name. The last two levels of the palace house
the Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II Museum. The museum exhibits a fascinating
accumulation of weaponry, textiles and other rarities belonging to the royal
families of the past. You can also notice the drawing and dinning area in
the Sukh Niwas or the Hall of Rest. The Shobha Niwas or the Hall of Beauty
lies on the fourth floor setting forth excellent excellent mirror work and
gold leaf embellishments. The fifth floor houses the Chavi Niwas or the Hall
of Images. The Mukut Mahal or the Crown Palace lies on the topmost floor.
While you get to the Badal Mahal from the Chandra Mahal, you come across the
Govind Devji Temple which is also worth watching.
While paying a visit to the Pink City of Jaipur, a visit to the City Palace
is highly recommended. The palace apart from making us cognizant of the
blend of the Rajput and the Mughal styles of architecture, also makes us
aware of the glorious past of the Maharajas. The museum here acquaints us
with the life they led and the style they followed. Accompanied by a guide,
you can delve into a whole lot of history here and thus get an opportunity
to know Rajasthan in a better way.
Plan a trip right away to peep into the modus vivendi of the Maharajas !
