Lal Mahal, Royal palace in Kasba Peth, Pune, India
Lal Mahal is a two-story structure in Kasba Peth, an older neighborhood of Pune, known as the childhood home of Shivaji. The facade features traditional Maratha elements with stone walls painted throughout in bright red, giving the palace its name.
Shahaji Bhosle built this palace in 1630 as a residence for his wife Jijabai and their son Shivaji, who spent his early years here. During a night raid in 1663, these walls witnessed a confrontation between Shivaji and the Mughal commander Shaista Khan, who lost several fingers in the encounter.
The name means 'red palace' and refers to the bright red colour on the outer walls that still draws the eyes of visitors today. Inside, large paintings show scenes from the early life of Shivaji, including moments with his mother Jijabai teaching him principles of leadership.
The palace opens daily from 9 AM to 6 PM and offers guided tours in several languages that explain the significance of each room. Visitors can explore both floors and should allow enough time to view the paintings and architectural details at a comfortable pace.
The Maratha warriors used red paint on the outer walls because it was considered a sign of courage and royal power. In the courtyard, visitors can still see the raised seating area where the young royal family would watch the daily life of the city.
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