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Made with the red and pink sandstone, the HawaMahal, also known as the “Palace of Winds” sits on the edge of the City Palace, Jaipur. The structure was built in 1799 by Maharaja SawaiPratap Singh, who was the founder of Jaipur. Its inimitable five floors exterior is akin to the honeycomb of a beehive with its 953 small windows called Jharokhas decorated with intricate latticework.
Built in red and pink colored sandstone, its color is a full testimony to the epithet of “Pink City”.It is one of the most famous tourist attractions and a prominent landmark of the city that is renowned for its rich cultural and architectural history. This striking structure is predominantly a high screen wall made of pink and red sandstone that facilitated royal women to get an eyeful of the street festivals and busy city life while remaining out of the view of public. This five-storey building in the shape of a crown of Lord Krishna with 953 jharokhas or windows and a beautifully decorated façade resembling a honeycomb of a beehive that gives one a feel of the rich heritage of the Rajputs.
The architect of this unique five-storied pyramidal palace with a height of 15 m from its elevated base was Lal Chand Ustad. The design of the building showcases an excellent blend of Hindu Rajput architecture with that of the Islamic Mughal architecture. The former style is palpable from the fluted pillars, floral patterns and domed canopies while the arches and stone inlay filigree work are manifestations of the latter style.The façade of the building intricately carved with beautiful motifs is cognate to that of the honeycomb of a beehive. Several potholes of the structure each having small lattice windows, chiseled sandstone grill and decorated domes give the building a look of a mass of semi-octagonal bays.
Fountains at the middle of each chamber complimented well with the light wind flowing through the jharokhas thus enhancing the cooling effect of the chambers.The brilliantly conceived design, style and construction of the Mahal made it the favorite resort of Maharaja Jai Singh and became famous as his masterpiece. Three two-storied buildings enclose a large courtyard on three sides with the HawaMahal located on its eastern side. The courtyard presently houses an archaeological museum. This monument is truly an architectural marvel and is something which must be witnessed by one and all. Its striking beaut is what makes it different from others, and is a place which is sure to leave one in absolute awe.
Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan
Year of Completion: 1799
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Special Dishes Available: PyaazKachori, Lassi, Ghewar, Laal Maas
Nearby Markets: Pandey Market, Janta Market, HawaMahal Emporium
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Courtesy: YouTube
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