Red fort is historical Fort located in New Delhi, constructed in 1639 by fifth Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan as the Palace of his fortified capital Shahjahanbad. It was used as main residence for the emperors of Mughal dynasty for around 200 years till 1857. Fort is surrounded with the Yamuna River and located in the city center of Delhi. Along with the resident place the Red Fort was a political center and ceremonial center of Mughal State.
The architecture of Red Fort is done by Ustad Ahmad Lahauri who also constructed Taj Mahal. The Fort captures splendid artwork and jewel made up of marble. Red Fort derived it name from the Red sandstone large enclosing walls of Forts. Architecture is unique blend of Mughlai, Persian and Timurid style it contains large courtyards, Pavilions, palaces, gardens, massive gates and pillars.
On every Independence Day honorable prime minister hoists the Indian tricolor Flag at the main gate of Red Fort and delivers Speech.
Major attractions of Red Fort are-
• Chawari Bazar - located in front of Red Fort.
• Lahori Gate - it is the main gate to the Fort.
• Delhi gate and Water gate are other gates.
• Chhatta Chowk - is the place where jewellery, silk and other items were sold during Mughal period.
• Naubat Khana - it is the drum house where music was played daily.
• Diwan-i-Aam - it is the public audience hall and also used for state functions it was aesthetically crafted with fine artwork.
• Nahar-i-Bihisht - The imperial apartments consist of a row of pavilions on a raised platform along the eastern edge of the fort, overlooking the Yamuna.
• Mumtaz Mahal - it was ladies apartment and now houses the Red Fort Archaeological Museum.
• Rang Mahal - it was the house of wives of emperor’s and mistresses with colourful and decorated artwork of mirrors.
• Khas Mahal - apartments of Emperor’s.
• Diwaan-i-Khas - It is constructed of white marble, inlaid with precious stones. It was the hall of private audience.
• Hayat Bakhsh Bagh - it is beautiful garden.
• Princes quarters - This was used by member of the Mughal royal family.
• Freedom-struggle Museum - it has paintings, lithographs and objects like guns, pistols, swords, shields, badges, medals, dioramas, sculptures etc.