It is not just a building made of red stone, its construction was a major event in history and since its construction till now it has seen such events that changed the course of history – this is the Red Fort of Delhi.
This royal fort made of red stone was not only the political center of the Mughal emperors but was also a building on which the Mughal rulers ruled for 200 years. Emperor Shah Jahan chose Ustad Ahmed Lahori for its construction who was also the architect of the Taj Mahal. Spread over about 250 acres, this fort tells the story of the deep conflict between the Mughal emperor and the British.
This Red Fort, which was a witness to India’s freedom struggle, is a unique example of beauty and uniqueness. Its history has been very interesting. So let’s know the history of the Red Fort, which is considered the pride of India!
History of the Red Fort –
Seven generations of Mughal emperor Babur ruled and Shah Jahan was the 5th Mughal emperor who took over the throne of Agra in 1628. At that time, Agra was the capital of the Mughals.
In 1628 AD, when Mughal emperor Shah Jahan ascended the throne, there was peace in the country. The emperor was fond of building big buildings. His capital was in Agra but he did not like the heat of Agra. He decided that the capital of the Mughal Empire should now be Delhi. After much deliberation, Talkatora Bagh and Raisina Hill were chosen for the new city. But the emperor’s two famous artisans Ustad Hamid and Ustad Ahmed said that the open ground on the banks of the Yamuna river was perfect for the fort.
The foundation of the Red Fort was laid in 1639. After 9 years of hard work by artisans, craftsmen and laborers, the Red Fort was completed. The city of Shahjahanabad was built in front of this fort, which is now called Delhi.
A moat was built around the fort, to cross which a wooden bridge was built. The ramparts of the Red Fort were built by Aurangzeb (son of Emperor Shah Jahan). To provide cover to the fort, he built this wall which came to be known as the Veiled Wall. Shah Jahan had written to Aurangzeb from Agra during his days in captivity that “By building the wall, it is as if you have put a mask on the face of the bride of the fort.”
This fort has four gates – Salim Gate, Delhi Gate, Jamna Gate and Lahori Gate. The direction of Lahori Gate is towards Lahore city of Pakistan, hence it was named Lahori Gate.