CITY PALACE

City Palace, Udaipur, is a palace complex in Udaipur, in the Indian state Rajasthan. It was built
over a period of nearly 400 years being contributed by several kings of the dynasty, starting by the
Maharana Udai Singh II as the capital of the Sisodia Rajput clan in 1559, after he moved
from Chittor. It is located on the east bank of the Lake Pichola and has several palaces built within
its complex. Udaipur was the historic capital of the former kingdom of Mewar in the Rajputana
Agency and its last capital.[1][2][3][4][5]
The City Palace in Udaipur was built in a flamboyant style and is considered the largest of its type in
Rajasthan, a fusion of the Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, and was built on a hill top that
gives a panoramic view of the city and its surrounding, including several historic monuments such as
the Lake Palace in Lake Pichola, the Jag Mandir on another island in the lake, the Jagdish Temple
close to the palace, the Monsoon Palace on top of an overlooking hillock nearby and the Neemach
Mata temple.

History[edit]
The city Palace was built concurrently with establishment of the Udaipur city by Maharana Uday
Singh, in 1559 and his successor Maharanas over a period of the next 300 years. It is considered
the largest royal complex in Rajasthan and is replete with history. Founding of the city and building of
the palace complex can not be looked in isolation as the Maharanas lived and administered their
kingdom from this palace.[8][9]
Prior to moving their capital from Udaipur to Chittor, the Mewar kingdom had flourished initially
in Nagda (30 kilometres (19 mi) to the north of Udaipur), established in 568 AD by Guhil, the
first Mewar Maharana. In the 8th century, the capital was moved to Chittor, a hill top fort from where
the Sisodias ruled for 80 years. Maharana uday Singh II inherited the Mewar kingdom at Chittor in
1537 but by that time there were signs of losing control of the fort in wars with the Mughals. Udai
Singh II, therefore, chose the site near Lake Pichola for his new kingdom because the location was
well protected on all sides by forests, lakes and the Aravalli hills. He had chosen this site for his new
capital, much before the sacking of Chittor by Emperor Akbar, on the advice of a hermit he had met
during one of his hunting expeditions.[9][10]
At his capital Udaipur, Maharana Uday Singh soon faced defeat at the hands of Mughal Emperor
Akbar. He soon moved to Udaipur to the chosen location to establish his new capital. The earliest
royal structure he built here was the Royal courtyard or 'Rai Angan', which was the beginning of the
building of the City Palace complex, at the place where the hermit had advised Maharana to build his
Capital.[7][9][11][12][13]

After Udai Singhs death in 1572, his son Maharana Pratap took the reins of power at Udaipur. He
was successful in defeating Akbar at the battle of Haldighati in 1576 and thereafter Udaipur was
peaceful for quite some years. With this, prosperity of Udaipur ensued, palaces were built on the
shore and in the midst of the Pichola lake. Concurrently art, particularly miniature painting, also
flourished.[10]
But in 1736, the marauding Marathas attacked Udaipur and by the end of the century the Mewar
state was in dire straits and in ruins. However, the British came to Mewars rescue in the 19th
century and soon the State of Mewar got re-established and prospered under British protection,
under a treaty signed with the British. However, the British were not allowed to replace them. Once
India got independence in 1947, the Mewar Kingdom, along with other princely states of Rajasthan,
merged with theDemocratic India, in 1949. The Mewar Kings subsequently also lost their special
royal privileges and titles. However, the successor Maharanas have enjoyed the trust of their people
and also retained their ownership of the palaces in Udaipur. They are now running the palaces by
creating a trust, called the Mewar Trust, with the income generated from tourism and the heritage
hotels that they have established in some of their palaces. With the fund so generated they are
running charitable hospitals, educational institutions and promoting the cause of environmental
preservation.[9][10]

Structures[edit]

Front Side of the City Palace

Panoramic view the Udaipur City Palace Complex at night

The series of palaces packed in the city palace complex, facing east (as customarily appropriate for
the Maharana dynasty the Sun dynasty), behind an exquisite facade of 244 metres (801 ft) length
and 30.4 metres (100 ft) height, were built on a ridge on the east of lake Pichola. They were built
over a long period, from 1559 onwards, by 76 generations of Sisodia Rajputs or Suryavanshi
Rajputs (worshippers of Sun god). Several Maharanas (the title Maharana is distinctly different from
Maharajah, as the former connotes a warrior and the latter a ruler or a king) starting with Udai Mirza
Singh II, have richly contributed to this edifice, which comprises an agglomeration of structures,
including 11 small separate palaces. The unique aspect of this conglomeration is that the
architectural design (a rich blend
of Rajasthani, Mughal, Medieval, European andChinese Architecture) is distinctly homogeneous and
eye catching. The palace complex has been built entirely in granite and marble. The interiors of the
palace complex with its balconies, towers and cupolas exhibit delicate mirror-work, marble-work,
murals, wall paintings, silver-work, inlay-work and leftover of colored glass. The complex provides a
fine view of the lake and the Udaipur city from its upper terraces.[1][2][4][5][7][11][12][16]
Located with the picturesque backdrop of rugged mountains, beside the Pichola lake on its shore,
the city palace complex painted in gleaming white color has been compared to the Greek islands,
such as the Mykonos.[17]
The famous structures or palaces viewed from the Lake Palace appear like a fort. They are
interlinked inside the complex through a number of chowks or quadrangles with zigzag corridors
(planned in this fashion to avoid surprise attacks by enemies). Erected in the complex, after entering
through the main Tripolia (triple) gate, are the Suraj Gokhda (public address facade), the Mor-chowk
(Peacock courtyard), the Dilkhush Mahal (hearts delight), the Surya Chopar, the Sheesh Mahal
(Palace of glass and mirrors), the Moti Mahal (Palace of Pearls), the Krishna Vilas (named after Lord
Krishna), Shambu Niwas (royal residence now), the Bhim Vilas, the Amar Vilas (with a raised
garden) that faces the Badi Mahal (the big palace), the Fateprakash Palace and the Shiv Niwas
Palace (the latest addition to the complex); the last two have been converted into heritage hotels.

Details of all these structures are elaborated.[2] The vast collection of structures are termed to form a
city within a city set with facilities of post office, bank, travel agency, numerous craft shops and also
an Indian boutique belonging to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for Nature. The entire complex is the
property of the Mewar royal family and a number of trusts take care of the running and maintenance
of the structures. The earliest royal structure built in the complex was the Royal courtyard or Rai
Angan.[7][11][12]
Gateways

Entrance gateway Bari Pol (left) to City Palace, Tripolia (Triple) Gate (centre), Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate) (right)

Gateways, colloquially called Pols, are set to the east of Udaipur city that was established by
Maharana Udai Singh II, concurrently with the City Palace. A number of impressive gateways
provide access to the palace complex.
The main entry from the city is through the 'Bara Pol' (Great Gate), which leads to the first courtyard.
Bara Pol (built in 1600) leads to the Tripolia Pol', a triple arched gate built in 1725, which provides
the northern entry. The road between this gate and the palace is lined with shops and kiosks owned
by craftsmen, book-binders, miniature painters, textile dealers and antique shops. Between these
two gates, eight marble arches or Toranas are erected. It is said that the Maharanas used to be
weighed here with gold and silver, which was then distributed among the local people. Following the
Tripolia gate is an arena in front of the Toran Pol and the facade palace, where elephant fights were
staged in the past to test their prowess before starting on war campaigns. [5][8][11][18]

The main block of the city palace at Udaipur is approached through a modest door from the
Ganesha Deodhi terrace. The door is flanked by whitewashed walls vibrantly painted with martial
animals in the traditional Rajput style.[2]
Amar Vilas
Amar Vilas is the uppermost court inside the complex, which is a raised garden. It provides entry to
the Badi Mahal. It is a pleasure pavilion built in Mughal style. It has cussed arcades enclosing a
square marble tub.[2]'Amar Vilas' is the highest point of the City palace and has wonderful hanging
gardens with fountains, towers and terraces.[5]
Badi Mahal

Badi Mahal

Badi Mahal (Great Palace) also known as Garden Palace and is the exotic central garden palace
that is situated on a 27 metres (89 ft) high natural rock formation bis-a-bis the rest of the palace. The
rooms on the ground floor appear to be at the level of the fourth floor in view of the height difference
to its surrounding buildings. There is a swimming pool here, which was then used for Holi festival
(festival of colors) celebration. In an adjoining hall, miniature paintings of 18th and 19th centuries are
displayed. In addition, wall paintings of Jag Mandir (as it appeared in the 18th century), Vishnu of
Jagdish temple, the very courtyard and an elephant fight scene are depicted. [5][19]

Elephants fights arranged in this venue

The elephant fight depicted in a painting on the wall was a representation of the real elephant fights,
which used to be organized by the Maharanas. It is mentioned that the elephants used to be
fed hashish(opium) before arranging the fights. An interesting observation is that the word assassin
is a derivative of the word hashish. The last such fight was reported in 1995. [20]

Bhim Vilas
Bhim Vilas has a gallery of a remarkable collection of miniature paintings that depict the real life
stories of Radha-Krishna.[5]
Chini Chitrashala
Chini Chitrashala (Chinese art place) depicts Chinese and Dutch ornamental tiles.[5]
Choti Chitrashali
Choti Chitrashali or 'Residence of Little Pictures', built in early 19th century, has pictures of
peacocks.[7]
Dilkhusha Mahal
Dilkhusha Mahal or Palace of Joy was built in 1620.[7]
Durbar hall
Durbar Hall was built in 1909 within the Fatepraksh Palace (now a heritage hotel) Official functions
such as State banquets and meetings were held here. The gallery of the hall was used by the Royal
ladies to observe the Durbar proceedings. This hall has luxuriant interior with some unusually large
chandeliers. Weapons of the maharanas and also some of their unique portraits are also depicted
here. The foundation stone for this hall was laid by Lord Minto, the Viceroy of India, in 1909, during
the rule of Maharana Fateh Singh and was then called Minto Hall.[11][13]
Fateprakash Palace
Fateprakash Palace, which is now run as a luxury hotel, has a crystal gallery that consists of crystal
chairs, dressing tables, sofas, tables, chairs and beds, crockery, table fountains which were never
used. There is also a unique jewel studded carpet here. Maharaja Sajjan Singh had ordered these
rare items in 1877 from F& C Osler & Co ofLondon but he died before they arrived here. It is said
that the packages containing these crystals remained unopened for 110 years. [11][13]
Jagdish mandir

Left:Jagdish Temple. Right: The decorated walls of Jagdish Mandir

Jagdish Mandir, located 150 metres (490 ft) north of the city palace, was built in 1652 in IndoAryan architectural style. It is a large and aesthetically elegant temple where an idol of Lord
Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu made in black stone is deified in the sanctum. The temple walls
and the sikhara or tower are decorated with carvings of Vishnu, scenes from Lord Krishnas life and
figurines of nymphs or apsaras. A brass image of Garuda (half-bird, half-man image, which is Lord
Vishnus vehicle), is placed in a separate shrine in front of the temple. Flanking the steps up the
temple decoration of statues of elephants are seen. The street square, where the temple is located,
is also known as Jagdish Chowk from where several roads radiate in different directions. [11][21][22][23]
Krishna Vilas
Krishna Vilas is another chamber, which has rich collection of miniature paintings that portray royal
processions, festivals and games of the Maharanas.[5] However, there is tragic story linked to this
wing of the City Palace. In the 19th century, a royal princess was unable to choose from two suitors
seeking her hand in marriage, one from the royal family of Jaipur and another from Jodhpur, and
hence in a state of dilemma, she poisoned herself to death.[22]
Laxmi Vilas chowk
Laxmi Vilas Chowk is an art gallery with a distinctive collection of Mewar paintings. [5]
Manak Mahal
The Manek mahal approached from the Manak Chowk is an enclosure for formal audience for the
Udaipur rulers. It has a raised alcove inlaid completely in mirror glass. Sun-face emblems, in
gleaming brass, religious insignia of the Sisodia dynasty are a recurring display at several locations
in the City Palace; one of these prominent emblems is depicted on the faade of the Manak Chowk,
which can also be seen from the outermost court below. The largest of such an emblem is also seen
on the wall of the Surya Chopar, a reception centre at the lower level. Surya or Sun emblem of the
Mewar dynasty depicts a Bhil, the Sun, Chittor Fort and a Rajput with an inscription in Sanskrit of a
quotation from the Bhagavad Gita (Hindu holy scripture), which means God Helps those who do

their duty". It was customary for the Maharanas to offer obeisance to the Sun facing east, every
morning before taking breakfast.[2][5][12][13]
Mor Chok

Left:Three peacocks in Mor Chowk wall. Right: Pillared hall with glass and mirror mosaic decorations

Mor Chok or Peacock square is integral to the inner courts of the palace. The elaborate design of
this chamber consists of three peacocks (representing the three seasons of summer, winter and
monsoon) modeled in high relief and faced with coloured glass mosaic, built into successive niches
in the wall area or jharoka, These were built during Maharana Sajjan Singhs reign, 200 years after
the palace was established. The peacocks have been crafted with 5000 pieces of glass, which shine
in green, gold and blue colours. The apartments in front of the Chowk are picturesquely depicted
with scenes of Hindu god Lord Krishnas legends. At the upper level, there is a projecting balcony,
which is flanked by inserts of coloured glass. In an adjoining chamber, called the Kanch-ki-Burj,
mosaic of mirrors adorn the walls. The Badi Charur Chowk within this chowk is a smaller court for
private use. Its screen wall has painted and inlaid compositions depicting European men
and Indianwomen.[22] Proceeding further from the Mor-Chowk, in the Zenana Mahal or womens
quarters exquisitely designed alcoves, balconies, colored windows, tiled walls and floors are seen. [2][5]
Museum
In 1974, a part of the city palace and the 'Zenana Mahal' (Ladies Chamber) were converted into a
museum. The museum is open for public. There is an interesting exhibit of a freaky monkey holding
a lamp and also portraits of maharajas displaying a spectacular array of mustaches. Lakshmi
Chowk' is an elegant white pavilion in the same precinct.[5]
Rang Bhawan
Rang Bhawan is the palace that used to contain royal treasure. There are temples of Lord
Krishna, Meera Bai and Shiva, located here.[5]
Sheesh Mahal
Sheess Mahal or Palace of Mirrors and glasses was built in 1716.[7]