Amber Fort Jaipur
Just Revel in Gone Delicacies….
We live in an age that exist in a strange, permanent present, cut drift from history and past memory. Too much has changed too quickly and history has fallen by the wayside, as a generation scrambles to keep pace with a dizzily spinning world. And by the way of these places we recognise our history. Amer Fort Jaipur is a delusion, shows ostentatious from tip to toe, with never seen before fortifications, endowed gates and paved paths like a roller coaster ride, has a mesmerization like a scent, magic like a heavenly spirit, significance like Kohinoor and its presence like a bewitchment. Precisely an eye catching and dreamy place of Jaipur which never did face destruction nor will suffer that now, hence it touches zenith in pristine. Just 11 Kilometers away from Jaipur, Amber Fort and Palace was built by Maharaja Man Singh.
History of Amber Fort :
The fort was established in 16th century during the reign of Raja Man Singh. Construction of the Fort was started by Raja Man Singh I in the year 1592 and was completed by Sawai Jai Singh in the 18th century. The Fort was completed within two centuries by dedicated efforts of three consequent kings following Raja Man Singh. All means of frills and fancies for the royal families and the people who were concerned with the execution of the kingdom of the Kachhawas were well provided. The Rajputs who had won a small structure passed on by Meena tribes, later on modernized it. Embedded in history as old as seven centuries, this place quivers with its legendary past. Although many of the early structures have been factually ruined but at the same time, those dating from 16th century onward are surprisingly well preserved by sincere efforts.
Architecture of Amber Fort :
The architecture of this fascinating structure is a rich and affluent amalgamation of Hindu and Mughal architectural designs. It is the classic and romantic fort-palace with a bravura aura. Initially, the fort was made in red sand stone and white marble. The rugged forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise with a beautiful fusion of architecture and art. The interior wall of the palace portrays exquisite paintings of hunting scenes which depicts the temperament of the Rajputs, who were extremely adventurous, revolutionary and self-indulgent. In the foreground there is the Maota Lake providing an overwhelming panorama. The fort was built with a motive of warring enemies as a safe place, the heavily structured walls could protect the residents within the ramparts of the fort.
Image By : Rounak Mishra
The structure has four different parts, each with a separate entrance. The entry to the fort is through the ‘Suraj Pol’ or Sun Gate which opens up into the main courtyard. This is an east-facing gate and also the main entrance to the palace and its position with respect to the rising sun is the foundation of its name. The second courtyard is famous for its ‘Diwan-e-Aam’ (Public Audience Hall) is a beautiful hall stands on two rows of decorated pillars and opens on three sides.
It has delicate mosaic work in glass and has beautiful carvings. It is said that king used to listen about requirements and complaints of his countrymen and also used to meet special guests from other states, ministers, and his acquaintances. The ‘Sukh Mahal’ Sukh Niwaas, which is opposite to ‘Diwaan-e-Khaas’ having doors made of sandal wood and ivory. In this artistic hall cool climate was artificially created through a channel running through the hall, which passed cool water that worked as an air cooler, with the aid of gentle wind. It is said that the kings used to spend time in this Sukh Niwaas and is known as the residence of pleasure.
‘Magic Flower‘, mural carved out of marble is a famous attraction here. The Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) is the most prominent and beautiful part of the Fort. The walls and ceiling of the hall of the Mahal is carved with beautiful paintings and flowers made with pure glass. In ancient days the queens were not allowed to sleep in open air but their love to see the stars shining gave a reason to king to order his architects to make a glass hall. The ‘Jaleb Chowk’ is one of the four courtyards of the Amer Palace. The ‘Sila Devi’ Temple is right at the entrance to the main palace grounds. The entrance to the temple is through silver sheet covered double leaf gate with raised relief.
Restoration works have been undertaken at the Amber Fort Jaipur by the Amer Development and Management Authority (ADMA). Nevertheless, these renovation works have been a part of intense debate and criticism with respect to their suitability to preserve and retain the historicity, original glory and architectural features of the ancient structures.
Tickets & Timings of Amber Fort :
It is an all day open haunt where travellers can visit the palace between 7:30 am – 5:30 pm. Entry fee is Rs. 25 per person for Indians and Rs. 200 per person for foreign tourists and visiting duration is 2 to 3 hours.
This fort is a proud testimony of skilled artisans and their amazing skills which still stands as a challenge for modern architecture. Tourists are astonished by intricate carving on the walls and ceilings.
More Pictures of Amber Fort Jaipur :
