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Fatehpur
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Fatehpur Sikri |
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Temple Of Fatehpur |
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Fatehpur Sikri
Visit Fatehpur Sikri.
Contact us.The founding of Fatehpur Sikri reads like a fairytale.
When all else had failed, the EmperorAkbar came here in search of the renowned
Sufi mystic, Sheikh Salim Chishti, to ask the blessing of a son. His prayer was
heard, and soon a son was born. In honour of the saint, Akbar named the prince
Salim and vowed to found a new city. And so Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent new
city rose on the craggy hills 40 kms from Agra. And for 16 short butmemorable
years it was the wonder of travellers from all over the world.
Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted, phantom city. But the inner
citadel is immaculately preserved. Its walls, palaces, baths, royal mint,courts
and gardens still stand in splendidhomage to a great visionary and builder. The
heart of the palace complex however, is verymuch alive. For at the tomb of
Sheikh Salim Chishti, a white marble canopy set in the greatcourtyard of the
Royal Mosque, pilgrims still come in thousands to offer flowers, tie a threadin
the latticed screens, and to pray for the gift of son.
Architecture
Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples
of Mughal architectural splendour at its height. Though the city is in ruins, it
is a place to visit if one comes to Agra. But in real terms Fatehpur Sikri is a
place where one should spend some time. The sunset over the ruins is sight to
cherish. Fatehpur Sikri is the best example of the culmination of Hindu and
Muslim architecture. Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in
Mecca and has designs are derived from the Persian & Hindu architecture.
Entrance to this mosque is through the Buland Darwaza which was built in Gujrat
and is 54 meter high. To the North of the Mosque is the dargah of Shaikh Salim
Chishti. This dargah was built in 1570. Here childless women come for blessings
of the saint. Even Akbar was blessed with three sons when he came here. The
lattice work in the dargah is among the finest to be found any where in
India.
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Fatehpur Pilgrimage Attractions |
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Attractions of Fatehpur Sikri
- Diwan-i-Khas- Hall of Private Audience
The Diwan-I-Kas is also
known as the "The Jewel House or The Ekstambha Prasada"(Palace of Unitary
pillar). A fine taste in jewelry and knowledge of the market was an
accomplishment of a Moghul gentleman. In this royal chamber for imperial gems
and jewels, Akbar sat on the top of the capital to inspect precious
treasures.This elegant structure with unusual interiors is composed in two
stories from outside, but is single chambered with high ceiling from inside. It
is surmounted by 4 kiosk and lies in the middle of a court.
- Buland Darwaza
The 54 meter high Buland Darwaza or triumphal
gateway was built in 1575 to celebrate Akbar's successful Gujarat campaign, is
the most stupendous architectural work of the Mughals. The gateway is approached
by a steep flight of steps, which add height and majesty to the entire
structure. The gateway is designed in colored stone and marble.
- Panch Mahal
The most intriguing building in Fatehpur Sikri is the Panch
Mahal (five-tiered palace), which is a five-storied pavilion of winds. The first
two floors are of equal size, while the next two are graded. On top is a single
kiosk or open pavilion. Each of the floors is supported on pillars. Originally,
jali screens stood between the pillars. The pavilion was originally used by the
women of the royal household and ladies of the harem. From the top of the Panch
Mahal, one can have a panoramic view of this imperial city with its buildings,
palaces, and the courtyards linking them.
- Khwabgah: Chamber of dreams/Khilawatkada-I-Khas
This is a
beautiful chamber, on the first floor is Akbar's private room where ladies from
the harem could easily visit him. They also met religious guests and watched
court proceedings from here from behind the screens. The Emperor retired here
for his short afternoon sleep and for relaxation at night. He held an informal
court here with his favorite noblemen such as witty Birbal, Abul Fazl, Nakib
Khan and other philosophers and Sufis.
- Anup Talao
It is also called as "The Peerless Pool or Kapur
Talao". This was the recreation place for the Emperor and it was here that
Tansen used to entertain Akbar and his guests. During festivals the whole tank
was filled with coins handed out in fistful and skirtful proportions.
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