Masterpiece Story: The Red Fort in Delhi

Historical Significance

Emperor Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal ruler, moved his capital from Agra to the newly established city of Shahjahanabad (now Old Delhi) and commissioned the Red Fort as the political seat of his empire. Adjacent to the older Salimgarh Fort, built by Islam Shah Suri in 1546, the structures together form the Red Fort Complex.

The Red Fort functioned as a royal palace, political nerve center, and ceremonial stage for the Mughal court. Following the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the British captured the fort, deposed the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, and demolished many of its marble pavilions and gardens. Despite this destruction, much of the layout and outer walls survived.

Design Elements of the Red Fort

The Red Fort was designed by Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the architect of the Taj Mahal. It showcases the synthesis of Central and South Asian architecture that is characteristic of Mughal design. The fort features cusped arches and inlaid marble panels drawn from Persian traditions. Jali screens (latticed stone) offer ventilation and visual elegance, while artistic elements such as floral and geometric motifs, pietra dura work, and calligraphic inscriptions adorn the structures.

Entrances and Public Areas

The Red Fort spans 256 acres and is enclosed by towering red sandstone walls that rise to 75 feet and have five gateway entrances. The primary entrance, the Lahori Gate, is located on the western wall and is named for its orientation toward the city of Lahore (now in Pakistan). This gate is also the site of the annual Independence Day flag hoisting and the Prime Minister’s address.

On the southern side stands the Delhi Gate, which resembles the Lahori Gate in design but is distinguished by British-era stone elephant sculptures flanking its entrance. A third main entrance, known as the Water Gate or Khizri Gate, was originally constructed to provide access to the Yamuna River. Over time, the river’s course shifted, leaving the Water Gate dry and disconnected from the riverbank.

Notable Structures of the Red Fort Complex

The Red Fort is laid out in an octagonal plan and showcases refined Mughal design elements such as intricate marble inlay, mirror mosaics, and other features characteristic of Persianate architecture.

Just beyond the Lahori Gate lies the Chhatta Chowk, an arched passageway that houses a covered market where merchants once sold luxury goods such as silk, jewelry, and perfumes to the Mughal nobility. Deeper within the complex are ceremonial and residential structures that exemplify the grandeur of the Mughal court. The Diwan-i-Am, or Hall of Public Audience, supported by 60 red sandstone columns, served as the venue where the emperor addressed the public and listened to petitions.  The Diwan-i-Khas, or Hall of Private Audience, is a more intimate and richly decorated chamber where the emperor received courtiers and important state guests. This space once housed the legendary Peacock Throne.

Adjacent to these is the Rang Mahal, or Palace of Colors, which formed part of the harem quarters. It was adorned with vivid floral motifs, mirrored ceilings, and intricate water channels that enhanced its cooling system and aesthetic appeal.

Imperial Seat to National Symbol

Throughout the Mughal era, the Red Fort has served as a vibrant center of administration, diplomacy, art, and ceremony—home to emperors, courtiers, scholars, and artisans alike. After the Siege of Delhi in 1857, the British seized control of the fort, deposed the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, and converted the complex into a military garrison, constructing barracks over once-lush Mughal gardens and courtyards.

On August 15, 1947, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru addressed the nation from the Red Fort’s ramparts, delivering his iconic “Tryst with Destiny” speech to mark India’s independence. Since that historic moment, the fort has evolved into a powerful stage for national pride and political continuity, hosting annual Independence Day celebrations led by the sitting Prime Minister.

In 2007, the Red Fort Complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honoring its architectural brilliance, layered history, and enduring cultural significance.

Red Fort Today

Today, the Red Fort is one of India’s most visited tourist destinations, attracting both domestic and international audiences. It remains a functional civic space, linking India’s ancient royal past with its democratic present.

The fort houses multiple museums dedicated to the freedom movements and hosts major cultural and state events, such as the annual Republic Day celebrations, exhibitions, light-and-sound shows, and art festivals. Restoration and conservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India continue to preserve its structures, artwork, and gardens.