Khas Mahal

The Khas Mahal was used as a personal abode of the Mughal emperors in Delhi. This monument is situated inside the premises of a huge compound within the city area, Red Fort. This structure was constructed by the great Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan between the period of 1631 to 1640. The Khas Mahal is also alternatively known as Aramgah-i-Muqaddar. A river runs on one side of the structure and on the other side lies another structure that is the Anguri Bagh. The Khas Mahal was believed to be built specially for Shah Jahan's two beloved daughters Roshanara and Jahanara. It is supposed that Jahanara resided on the northern one among the two nearly alike pavilions. The two pavilions or alcoves were split from the main hall area with the help of a tall marble wall.

The very name of this exquisitely decorated chamber—‘khaas’ means ‘select’ or ‘elite’—indicates that it was meant for the Emperor. The Khaas Mahal would be where the Emperor spent his most private moments, and it included a Tasbeeh Khaana (‘a room for telling of beads’, that is, a worship chamber) and a Khwaabgah, a ‘chamber of dreams’, or a bedroom. Very fine carving, including delicate jaalis (filigree screens) of white marble, a depiction of the scales of justice, and marble panels so thin they are translucent, make this an especially beautiful little palace. Note that like most of the palaces in the fort, this one is now out of bounds for the public. Earlier, you could at least step up onto the platform and peer in for a closer look; now even that is not allowed, so you have to be content with looking up from ground level.

Khas Mahal was Shah Jahans private residence Khas Mahal has 3 divisions Tasbih-Khana, prayer room for the king, a set of three rooms facing the Diwan-e Khas Three rooms behind the prayer hall were the Khwabgah or bedroom To the south is a long chamber with a perforated wall on the west called Toshkhana or regal wardrobe chamber It was also called the Baithak or sitting room. A beautifully carved marble screen with the Scale of Justice is at the northern end of these rooms. On the river side is the semi octagonal tower with an onion dome called the Muthamman Burj From a protruding window called jharokha was where the king would appear every morning for the darshan

As a Google Map Local Guide, my visit to Khas Mahal was a captivating journey into the opulent world of Mughal architecture and history. This exquisite structure, located within the Red Fort complex in Delhi, showcases the grandeur and elegance of the Mughal era. Upon entering the Khas Mahal, I was immediately struck by its stunning beauty and architectural finesse. The intricate marble work, delicate floral patterns, and finely carved jali screens exemplify the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating this royal abode. The main hall of the Khas Mahal, also known as the Diwan-i-Khas, offers a glimpse into the private audience hall where the Mughal emperors held intimate gatherings and conducted official meetings. The marble throne with its intricate inlays serves as a centerpiece, reflecting the regal charm and authority of the Mughal rulers. As I wandered through the various chambers and pavilions, I could vividly imagine the life of the Mughal royalty. The serene Yamuna River view from the balconies and windows added to the tranquility and charm of the palace. Being a Local Guide, I found the Google Maps directions to Khas Mahal accurate and helpful in navigating the expansive Red Fort complex. The site's historical and cultural significance make it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers. However, to fully appreciate the splendor of Khas Mahal, I recommend visiting during less busy hours to avoid crowds and have a more immersive experience. Additionally, considering the historical significance of the monument, it is essential to be respectful of the site's heritage and follow any guidelines or regulations set by the authorities. In conclusion, Khas Mahal is a gem within the Red Fort complex that offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Mughal emperors. As a Google Map Local Guide, I wholeheartedly recommend this historical masterpiece to anyone seeking to delve into India's royal past and architectural brilliance. It's a destination that not only educates but also mesmerizes with its timeless beauty and cultural heritage.

The Khas Mahal served as the Mughal emperor's private residence in Delhi. The structure is located inside the Red Fort, which is a large defensive and governmental complex located inside the city. It consists of three parts: the Chamber of Telling Beads (Viz-tasbih-khana), the sleeping chamber, (khwabgah) and the wardrobe (tosha-khana) or sitting room (baithak). The interior is decorated with carved white marble painted with colourful floral decorations. The ceiling was also partially gilded. The marble screen was carved with the scale of justice (Mizan-i-adal), and above it is a particularly important item of Mughal art. The scale used was a depiction of the emperor's justice. The projecting tower to the east of the Khas Mahal is called the Octagonal Tower (Muthamman Burj). The emperor would address his subjects every morning in a ceremony called Jharokha Darshan. Khas Mahal was the daughter of Zain Khan Koka. Zain Khan was the son of Khawajah Maqsud of Herat and Pija Jan Anaga, foster-mother of Emperor Akbar. Khan's paternal uncle, Khawajah Hassan's daughter, Sahib Jamal had been married to Jahangir, and was the mother of his son Prince Parviz Mirza. Khas Mahal had two brothers, named Zafar Khan and Mughal Khan. The former served under Akbar and Jahangir, and died on 7 March 1622. The latter served under Jahangir and his son Shah Jahan, and died on 1 July 1657. A sister of Khas Mahal was married to Mirza Anwar, a son of Mirza Aziz Koka, Akbar's foster-brother. In 1596 Prince Salim (future Emperor Jahangir) became violently enamoured of her, and meditated marrying her. Akbar was displeased at the impropriety. The cause of Akbar's objection was Sahib Jamal who had already been married to Salim. Akbar objected to marriages between near relations. However, when Akbar saw that Salim's heart was immoderately affected, he, of necessity, gave his consent. There was a great feast and joy. The marriage took place on the eve of 28 June 1596 at the house of Empress Hamida Banu Begum. When Jahangir ascended the throne, Khas Mahal became empress. Sir William Hawkins, a representative of the English East India Company noted her among Jahangir's chief wives. In 1642-43, Khas Mahal commissioned a palace near the old fort in the neighborhood of Nizamuddin, Delhi. The Khas Mahal served as the Mughal emperor's private residence in Delhi. The structure is located inside the Red Fort, which is a large defensive and governmental complex located inside the city. It consists of three parts: the Chamber of Telling Beads (Viz-tasbih-khana), the sleeping chamber, (khwabgah) and the wardrobe (tosha-khana) or sitting room (baithak). The interior is decorated with carved white marble painted with colourful floral decorations. The ceiling was also partially gilded. The marble screen was carved with the scale of justice (Mizan-i-adal), and above it is a particularly important item of Mughal art. The scale used was a depiction of the emperor's justice. The projecting tower to the east of the Khas Mahal is called the Octagonal Tower (Muthamman Burj). The emperor would address his subjects every morning in a ceremony called Jharokha Darshan. Khas Mahal was the daughter of Zain Khan Koka. Zain Khan was the son of Khawajah Maqsud of Herat and Pija Jan Anaga, foster-mother of Emperor Akbar. Khan's paternal uncle, Khawajah Hassan's daughter, Sahib Jamal had been married to Jahangir, and was the mother of his son Prince Parviz Mirza. The Khas Mahal served as the Mughal emperor's private residence in Delhi. The structure is located inside the Red Fort, which is a large defensive and governmental complex located inside the city. It consists of three parts: the Chamber of Telling Beads (Viz-tasbih-khana), the sleeping chamber, (khwabgah) and the wardrobe (tosha-khana) or sitting room (baithak). The interior is decorated with carved white marble painted with colourful floral decorations.