Kanch Mahal: The 17th-century harem and hunting lodge in Agra

Built sometime in the early 17th century, Kanch Mahal is nestled away from the glamorous tourist circuits of Agra, the quintessential ‘City of Love.’ Commissioned by Shah Jahan, Kanch or Kaanch Mahal was envisioned as a luxurious sanctuary of peace for royal women. 

It was originally surrounded by a garden, customary pathways, water channels, and tanks and served as a harem quarter or royal ladies' resort. Additionally, it functioned as the Royal Shikargah (Hunting Lodge) for Jehangir. The building dates back to the period between 1605 and 1619. 

The stark square shape of Kanch Mahal seems to conceal its architectural sophistication. This two-story monument is a masterpiece of masonry, situated amid manicured gardens near Akbar’s tomb in Sikandra Fort, Agra. A closer look shows the intricate artistry—perfected by the Mughals and still unrivalled in splendour.

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Its unique design later influenced the domestic architecture of the region. Over time, the central hall of the Kanch Mahal, which was originally enclosed, was opened to the sky in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. This modification allowed abundant light and air to flow into the interior, creating a true "angan" (courtyard). 

Kanch Mahal’s open courtyard design became the standard layout for residential houses in the Jamuna-Chambal region, with numerous surviving examples found in Vrindavan, Agra, and Gwalior

Intricate motifs are intricately carved throughout the building. The design prominently features recessed niches adorned with wine vases, circular niches containing full lotus designs, arabesques, and geometric patterns interwoven with floral creepers. 

The glass palace

Living up to its name, Kanch Mahal showcases breathtaking glass mosaics adorning its walls. These mosaics, featuring vibrant colours and intricate designs, create a mesmerizing visual display. Sunlight filtering through the glass panels casts a kaleidoscope of hues, turning the palace into a luminous gem.

Due to its location along the Agra-Delhi Imperial Highway, the building became an easy target for invading armies and rebellious groups, leading to significant damage, particularly to its southern side facing the road, during the decline of the later Mughals.

For a period, the Church Missionary Society took control of the site. Eventually, it was acquired, restored, and preserved by the Department of Archaeology.

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Architecture of Kanch Mahal

Kanch Mahal exemplifies the quintessence of Mughal architecture. The palace harmonizes white marble with intricate glasswork, forming a captivating interplay of light and colour. Elaborate jaali work, detailed carvings, and expansive courtyards highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of the era's artisans.

The palace comprises interconnected pavilions, courtyards, and gardens, meticulously arranged to inspire tranquillity and opulence.

Its symmetrical layout, typical of Mughal aesthetics, incorporates water channels, fountains, and verdant landscapes to enhance its allure.

The two-story landmark features a square central hall with a vaulted soffit as the roof. The four corners of the building house square rooms, each with two openings designed for ventilation. These rooms also have openings on two sides to enhance airflow. 

Octagonal double pillars stand on the raised plinth on two sides of the hall, serving as supports for the piers on the upper level. The building originally had two identical façades on the south and north sides.

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The northern façade, with its large central portal matching the building’s height, has endured through the years. It features intricately carved fringes and lotus buds. Similar façades once existed on the western and eastern sides, mirroring each other. The structure was built using brick masonry, originally plastered and painted on the interior, with finely carved red sandstone also incorporated.

Recognizing the historical and cultural importance of Kanch Mahal, preservation efforts have been undertaken. These initiatives include restoring the intricate glasswork, maintaining the structural integrity, and implementing protective measures to safeguard the palace from environmental threats.

The architectural marvel stands as a testament to the grandeur of Mughal architecture and the cultural richness of India.

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