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Mandu Attractions
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Tourist
Attractions in Mandu
The tourist attractions in Mandu are the Jama Masjid,
Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Nilkanth Temple, Champa
Baoli, Rewa Kund, Roopmati Pavilion and Hoshang Shah’s
Tomb. |
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Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid was constructed on the lines
of the Omayyed Mosque in Damascus. This mosque is
considered as the finest example of Afghan
architecture in India. This mosque has so perfect
acoustics that even a whisper from the pulpits can
be heard clearly in the farthest corner of the
courtyard. The Jama Masjid is conceived on a grand
scale on a high plinth and a large domed porch
ornamented with jail screens and bands of blue
enamel tiles set as stars. The courtyard is
flanked by colonnades. The western one is the
Prayer Hall and is the most imposing of all with
numerous rows of arches and pillars which support
the ceilings of the 3 great domes and the 58
smaller ones. The central niche is beautifully
designed and ornamented along its sides with a
scroll of interwoven Arabic letters containing
quotations from the Koran.
Jahaz Mahal |
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The
Jahaz Mahal is a palace shaped like a ship that floats
serenely on the bosom of the lake. Its shape and kiosks
looks like a heavenly ship sailing into eternity. This
long and narrow ship palace is built between two lakes
and looks like a pleasure boat. Ghiasuddin, the
pleasure-loving king of Mandu, built this palace to
follow his interesting pursuits with women. At the
northern end of the ship is a beautifully designed bath
where one can imagine the king watching the ladies of
the harem rolling around seductively in the pool. This
palace reflects the spirit of romantic beauty
characteristic of the palace life of the Muslim rulers
of India.
Nilkanth Temple
The Nilkanth Temple is a standing monument to Akbar’s
respect for all religions.
Champa Baoli
Champa Baoli is situated on the north shore of the lake.
Its subterranean levels feature cool wells and paths, a
popular retreat during hot and summer days. The Champa
Baoli is known so as the water is said to have smelt
like the champa flower.
Rewa Kund
The Rewa Kund is a gem-like lake. It is said to be
filled by the waters of the Narmada river, 90 km. away
and 600 metres lower down. According to legend, the Rani
Rupmati agreed to marry Baz Bahadur on the condition
that he would bring the Narmada to Mandu and Rewa Kund
was the fulfillment of that promise. |
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Hindola Mahal
The Hindola Mahal is built with its sloping walls
that looks like a swing with massive stone. It
appears to sway gently in the breeze. It also has
graceful archways. The Hindola Mahal is now in
ruins which was once the palace of the Malwa
sultans.
Roopmati Pavilion
The Roopmati Pavilion is situated on the banks of
the Rewa Kund. This retreat was built by Baz
Bahadur for his queen Roopmati. |
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From
here, the Roopmati could see the Narmada river flowing
at a distance as a silver screen on the horizon. The
pavilions, square with hemispherical domes are the
latest additions and have added distinction to the
building. The sunrise and sunset can also be enjoyed
from here.
Hoshang Shah’s Tomb
Hoshang Shah’s Tomb is India’s first marble edifice and
a refined example of Afghan architecture. Its features
are a well proportioned dome, delicate marble
latticework and portioned courts and towers. Shah Jahan
sent four of his architects, including Ustad Ahmed who
is associated with the Taj Mahal, to study its form for
inspiration.
Excursion from Mandu
Dhar
Dhar is situated about 35 km from Mandu. Dhar was the
capital of the Parmar kings. It was later conquered by
Muslims. The monuments here are a combination of Hindu,
Afghan and Mughal architecture. |
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