14 January 2011

Hawa Mahal, Wind Palace in Jaipur, the Pink City

The landmark of Jaipur is an elaborate screen built in 1799 by the maharaja for the women of the royal household to observe processions outside without being seen. There was a strict "purdah" observed at that time. The top is meant to replicate the crown of Lord Krishna, the deity of the maharaja. It's five stories high with the outside wall about a foot thick. On the inside there are some 900 niches and alcoves for viewing through small windows.