Around
35 to 40 km from Agra,
lies Fatehpur Sikri, a city built predominantly in red sandstone. Built by the
Mughal Emperor, Akbar, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal
architectural splendour at its height. It is the best example of the
culmination of Hindu and Muslim architecture.
Fatehpur
Sikri Mosque is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca and its designs are derived from the
Persian & Hindu architecture. It was Akbar's capital for approximately 12 years,
with Akbar choosing Sikri as the seat of his government because he believed it
to be auspicious. He experimented both with architecture and art and built a
city showcasing his ideals and vision.
The
finest monuments within this area are the Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Panch
Mahal, Buland Darwaza and the tomb of Saint Sheikh Salim Chishti and the Jama
Masjid (one of the largest mosques in India). However shortage of water
compelled Akbar to abandon the city. The gigantic 54 metres high Buland Darwaza, the Gate of Victory, inscribed with
verses from the Koran, is the main entrance. It was constructed to commemorate
Akbar's victory.
Just
outside the gateway is a deep well wherein local daredevils leap from the top
of the entrance into the water, which is highly recommended as a ‘must watch’.
The Shahi Darwaza is the official entrance, where licensed guides can be hired.
Other
places worth seeing at Fatehpur Sikri are:
Tomb
of Sheikh Salim Chisti: The tomb was built in 1570 with carved marble &
beautiful lattice screens and till today, is visited by hordes of believers for
fulfillment of their wishes. Diwan-i-Khas:
Fatehpur Sikri's architectural gem, the Diwan-i-Khas is a single vaulted
chamber dominated by its massive central Lotus Throne Pillar that supported
Akbar's throne. This stone column supports a flat topped dome which is 6 metres
high.
Diwan-i-Aam:
This hall was designed for large public gatherings. Nearby is the Pachisi
courtyard, where Akbar and his courtiers used slave girls, attired in brilliant
dresses, as pieces of pachisi (a game similar to ludo), moving when ordered on
a giant marble board.
Today,
though Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted, phantom city, it has retained many of the
old structures and is definitely worth a visit while in Agra.
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