Last updated on January 29th, 2022 at 12:13 pm
Rajasthan’s palaces and forts are large in number, making it a popular tourist destination. The area’s architectures are the monuments today, with each having its own unique history and grandeur.
Among the documents pertaining to planning for making the Hawa Mahal is a scholarly meeting that occurred on February 10, 1799 under scholars Shiv Ram Gandhi and Adhar Hazari in which it is mentioned about the need of putting up a splendid building up in this location.
The Hawal Mahal was constructed in 1799 with red and pink sandstone, has a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani style of architecture. The carvings on the walls are artistic pieces from local artists.
Hawa Mahal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan. This desert cluster picturesque palace has been home to 1623 wives of maharajahs and after its destruction by fire in 1885, it only took a day before it was rebuilt. One night when they were all asleep, the princesses had a dream that they were floating towards heaven. In their dream, an angel offered them three wishes each but cautioned that the first wish could cause destruction or death! So here is the fun facts about hawa mahal:
Shaped like a Crown
The love for Lord Krishna led Sawai Pratap Singh to build a magnificent structure in the shape of Lord Krishna\’s crown, Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds.
The Wind Palace
Jurrah Keemba(Jharokas) Hawal Mahal means “wind from 953 windows” or “palace of winds and small windows to blow the wind in, it was an olden time summer retreat for many Rajput families. It’s one of the most famous attractions in Jaipur.
Built for the Royal Ladies
The Hawa Mahal was constructed as a separate complex for the royal ladies. The idea was that, royal women could watch the daily life of the city through the windows. Another purpose for this palace was to house people that had committed serious crimes. By separating criminals from supervised criminals, those dangerous criminals weren’t allowed in on the crime rate.
Looks like a Honey Comb
The facade of the building created like a beehive. The royal women in the left side windows can watch the bustle of the city, but no one will know that they are watching.
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No Front entrance
The Hawa Mahal doesn’t have a direct entrance – you must enter through the side of the City Palace. Hawa Mahal is a part of the City Palace, and so there’s no direct entrance – yours will be made by human or admission seeker.
No Stairs to Reach the Upper Floors
Mahal has 5 floors and there are no stairs to climb, instead there is only a ramp system.
Named after Hawa Mandir
The five beautiful floors of the palace are covered with carvings and paintings. The pavilions surrounding the outside are famous for their intricate floral designs.