Jaipur Trip: The Secret Of Hawa Mahal, How Does This Magnificent Building Stands Without A Foundation?

New Delhi: Located in Jaipur, Rajasthan, the Hawa Mahal is not just a building, but a unique piece of architecture. It is the world's tallest building without a foundation. This magnificent five-story palace is tilted at an angle of 87 degrees, making its structure exceptional. This magnificent palace was built in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh and was designed by Lal Chand Ustad. The palace derives its name "Hawa Mahal" from its 953 windows, which create a honeycomb-like structure.

These windows keep the palace cool and airy even in the scorching heat of Rajasthan. Let us tell you about Hawa Mahal, Jaipur's most popular building.

According to "Incredible India," the Hawa Mahal's architecture is a magnificent fusion of Islamic and Rajput styles. Its red and pink sandstone exterior further adds to its charm, recalling Jaipur's nickname as the "Pink City." The pyramidal structure atop the palace resembles Lord Krishna's crown, which is why it is affectionately known as the "Crown of Jaipur."

Identity of the Pink City

Jaipur is known as the "Pink City" because of the pink sandstone from which the Hawa Mahal is built. The story goes that Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert, was visiting Jaipur. To welcome him, the Maharaja had the entire city painted pink.

The Prince and Queen liked the color so much that they nicknamed Jaipur the "Pink City." A law was subsequently passed allowing buildings to be painted only "Jaipur Pink," to maintain the city's identity.

What's inside it?

The first floor of the Hawa Mahal houses the Sharad Mandir, decorated with colorful cultural glasswork. The second floor is called the Ratan Mandir. The last three floors are the Vichitra Mandir, Prakash Mandir, and Hawa Mandir. The palace also houses a museum showcasing Rajasthani miniature art.

Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh built this palace for the royal ladies. They could observe the hustle and bustle of Johari Bazaar from behind a special lattice called the "Aakash Patal Jaali," without being visible to outsiders. This lattice was installed with the help of Lal Chand Ustad.