Diwan-e-Khas, meaning "Hall of Private Audience," was a prominent feature in Mughal architecture, particularly during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. Located within the Red Fort complex in Delhi, India, it served as a private audience hall where the emperor would meet important dignitaries, courtiers, and foreign ambassadors.
The Diwan-e-Khas was designed to reflect the grandeur and opulence of the Mughal court. It was constructed using white marble, intricately carved with floral motifs and inscriptions from the Quran, highlighting the Mughal empire's appreciation for artistry and craftsmanship. The hall was renowned for its architectural elegance, featuring a central column that supported a flat, domed ceiling adorned with precious stones and gold.
The most iconic feature of the Diwan-e-Khas was the famous Peacock Throne, a lavish throne studded with jewels and designed to resemble a peacock spreading its feathers. The throne symbolized the wealth and power of the Mughal emperor and became synonymous with the magnificence of the Mughal court.
Aside from its architectural splendor, the Diwan-e-Khas was also a place where the emperor conducted discussions on matters of state, diplomacy, and philosophy. It served as a venue for hosting select guests and dignitaries, emphasizing the emperor's prestige and authority.
Today, while the original Red Fort complex in Delhi stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of India's rich history, the Diwan-e-Khas remains a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture and the cultural legacy of the Mughal Empire. It continues to attract visitors from around the world who are captivated by its historical significance and...
Read moreDiwan-i-Khas One of the attractions of the Amber Palace is the Diwan-Khas or the Hall of Private Audience Constructed during the period of Mirza Raja Jal Singh (1621-67 AD was for this rearen also called Jai Mandir and because of the beautiful nor glass work in it, Sheesh Mahal or the Glass Palace. The Raja mat his special guests, like anvoya from other rulers hens The upper part of the Diwani-Khas is Anown Mandir and is spell-binding in the intricate foral designs with glass in them. The hamams or the baths are located north of Jas Mandir. The palace was kept cool in the summer by covering its arched openings with screens woven with the roots of the aromatic grass called Khas. The screens were moistened periodically with water. Ar passing through the screens was thus cooled, and camled also the fragrance of the grass into the palace-chambers. in front of the Sheesh Mahal is a parterred little garden tv the classic Mughal pattern called Chár-bágh ns. Facing or Four Gardens. the Sheesh Mahal is Sukh-Niwas (Pleasure Palace), the Raja's private apartments where he...
Read moreThe 'Diwan-E-Khas' (Sabha Niwas) or the 'Hall of Private Audience' is an enchanting chamber, with the ceiling painted in rich red and gold colours, which still looks vibrant. It is a major attraction in the Mubarak Mahal courtyard. This chamber, functioning now as an art gallery, has exhibits of exquisite miniature paintings (of Rajastahni, Mughal and Persian art), ancient texts, embroidered rugs, Kashmir shawls and carpets. The ceiling is richly decorated. At present, it is an art gallery showcasing enthralling painted ceilings and rare ancient handwritten original manuscripts of Hindu scriptures (the Hindu holy scripture of the Bhagavad Gita handwritten in tiny script). Also seen in the art gallery is the Royal throne (called as Takth-e-Rawal) that was the seat of the Maharaja during public audience. It was mounted on an elephant or carried by palanquin bearers during the Maharajas visit outside the palace. At the entry gateway to the hall, two large elephants, each made out of single marble rock...
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