Red Fort, New Delhi, Delhi India

Red Fort is one of the most symbolic features of the Indian capital. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan around 1638 and 1648, the Red Fort today is a busy market-place called the Meena Bazaar, selling a host of wares.

History states, that the Red Fort was built when Shahjahanabad replaced Agra as the capital of the Mughal rule. Located in the eastern end of Shahjahanabad, the Red Fort is symbolic of not just the pomp and splendor of the Mughals but also their architectural prowess. The Lahori Gate which is the main gate of the fort is in itself a structure that attracts thousands of visitors. The Red Fort is also the site of India's national functions on the 15th of August, India's Independence Day.

The fort is also famous from a historic perspective as it gives us an idea of the system of governance. There were separately assigned halls and spaces for the public and the nobility. This is evident from the presence of the two halls, the Diwan-i-aam and the Diwan-i-khaas which were the assemblies meant for the commoners and the aristocracy respectively. Jeweled and marbled at their time of origin, the Red Fort has, however, fallen, in later times prey to the vandalism that has been carried out by the invaders of the country. The famous Peacock Throne, that served as a source of pride in the days of the Mughal supremacy was removed to Iran by Nadir Shah in 1739 after a successful loot in the Indian capital. Known for her prestige and beauty, the Diwan-i-Khas has been the subject of Urdu poetry as well. The poet Amir Khusro once remarked, "If there is Paradise on the face of earth, it is here, it is here, it is here".
The Rang Mahal or the palace of colors is another of the remarkable attractions of the Red Fort, noted for its beautifully Lotus-shaped fountain.
Though the Red Fort is but a faint image of its former glory today, it still manages to hold its visitors spell-bound with images of its regal charm. Light and sound shows are arranged at the fort that is sure to transport you to the medieval era of the Mughals. Tickets for the show which are organized in Hindi as well as in English can be bought from the Fort.

The Lal Quila is one of the most beautiful monuments of India. It is Mughal architecture which showcases the talents of the builders of that era. A great wall covers the entire monument. This wall has two major openings. One of the openings or gate is known as the Lahore Gate, while the other gate is known as the Delhi Gate.

Lal Quila is one of the most visited tourist locations in Delhi. Every year thousands of people come to visit this important attraction of Old Delhi. The Red Fort is a place of national importance. Every year the Prime Minister of India addresses the people of India on the Independence Day.

The palace sheltered 3000 people before the British took over the great Lal Quila. The British made the Lal Quila an army capital. After Indian Independence, this fort was taken over by the Indian Army.

The Lal Quila is decorated with lights and the Mughal stories are told with sound effects in the evenings. It is indeed an attraction to people who love to discover monuments and the history behind these monuments. The majestic Lal Quila is sure to surprise you, when you visit this Mughal beauty.