| Description: | The finest example of Rajput artistry, the most recognizable landmark of the Pink city, a gently tapering five-storied, semi-octagonal structure erected as a facade, comprising of 953 niches and 152 windows with overhanging latticed balconies, lace fine screens, curvilinear roofs, domes and spires, the monument is none other than the stunning Hawa Mahal!
Hawa MahalHawa Mahal is famous as the 'Palace of Winds', it was built in 1799 by the popular poet King Sawai Pratap Singh for the royal ladies to enjoy the processions and day-to-day activities on the street while maintaining their purdah. Located within the premises of the City Palace in Sireh Deori Bazaar, the monument is often referred to as a 'fantasy in pink sandstone'.
Hawa Mahal derives its name from the fact that in spite of being such an imposing structure, it is designed in such a way that the passage of wind is not obstructed allowing it to pass freely through the numerous jharokhas (windows) of the royal ladies quarters, keeping them cool. Since the King dedicated the monument to Lord Krishna and Radha in one of his couplets, as he was a great devotee, it is said that Hawa Mahal's design resembles the crown of Lord Krishna. Whatever, the truth may be but there is no doubt that Hawa Mahal is an architectural marvel.
Apart from the various structures inside, the palace also houses a museum near the entrance exhibiting a fine collection of ancient paintings, handicrafts and armory among many other displays.
The entrance to the palace is from the rear side. The top storey of the palace is excellent for photography as it provides magnificent views of the walled city and its attractions. |
