The city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is renowned for its royal atmosphere, and at its heart lies the magnificent Hawa Mahal, also known as the ‘Palace of Winds’. Constructed in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, the ruler of Rajasthan and the visionary behind the city of Jaipur, this architectural marvel reflects dedication, purpose, and creativity.
The Hawa Mahal is a distinctive five-story structure resembling Lord Krishna’s crown adorned with peacock feathers. The Maharaja, an ardent devotee of Lord Krishna, dedicated this masterpiece to the divine. The palace was built with the purpose of allowing the royal ladies to observe the daily life of the bustling streets below while maintaining their privacy behind small, inconspicuous windows, adhering to the tradition of ‘Purdah’.
The exterior and interior of the Hawa Mahal showcase its architectural brilliance. With 953 small windows or jharokhas, the palace offers a unique design that is not firmly anchored to the ground but instead attached to a wall. Its walls are remarkably thin, measuring less than a foot. The fusion of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles is evident in the intricate designs, domed canopies, floral patterns, fluted pillars, fine stone inlay work, and arches.
One must not miss the breathtaking view of Jaipur from the windows of the Hawa Mahal, where the cool breeze gracefully flows through the labyrinth of small rooms and corridors within the palace. It is truly a sight to behold.
To know more about Jaipur and you may refer to the following: Location of Hawa Mahal | About Jaipur | Jaipur City Map | Tourist Places in Jaipur | Travel to Jaipur
