Khas Mahal, Private palace chambers in Red Fort, Delhi, India
The Khas Mahal is a palace building with white marble walls, carved panels, and painted ceilings spread across three distinct living areas. The structure contains multiple connected rooms decorated with elaborate floral patterns and ornamental details throughout.
Shah Jahan commissioned this residential palace in 1639 within the Red Fort as part of his new capital development. The building was designed from the start as the emperor's private quarters.
The palace blends Persian design principles with Indian craftsmanship through its pavilions and ornate marble screens. The room layout and decoration show how the Mughal court lived and organized its daily routines.
The building is accessible daily and visitors should expect crowds, particularly on weekdays and during midday hours. Sturdy shoes are recommended since marble floors can be slippery.
The central hall once held mirrors from Belgium set into special niches that multiplied lamplight to create brilliant illumination. This optical technique was an innovative solution for lighting at the time.
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