Shaukat Mahal is a 19th century Palace located in the city of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh where once existed the old city of Shahjehanabad. It was designed by a Frenchman, a descendant of the Bourbon Kings of France. This large palace displays a combination of Asian and Western styles of architecture which makes this building stand out in the crowd of the traditional Islamic architecture of Bhopal. It is a combination of Indo-Islamic and European styles of architecture.
History of Shaukat Mahal
The Shaukat Mahal was constructed in the 1830s as a wedding gift for Sikander Jahan Begum, the first female ruler of Bhopal.
Architecture of Shaukat Mahal
Shaukat Mahal is one of the architectural jewels of Bhopal. The Mahal is a blend of both oriental and occidental styles of architecture. Post Renaissance and Gothic styles have been combined in an enchanting manner in the building. The building is very different from the rest of the Islamic architecture in the vicinity. The exterior of the palace is carved with exquisite floral patterns that give the Mahal a very eco-friendly appearance. The roof of the building is adorned with a series of complicated triangular-shaped arches and the exteriors have beautiful patterns, showing artistic brilliance.
Shaukat Mahal is flanked by the "Sadar Manzil" which served as a Hall of Public Audience during the princely period. Today, it houses the Municipal Corporation of the city. This brick-red building has an ostentatious appearance and the gardens that surround the palace makes the Manzil look very pretty.
Visiting Information of Shaukat Mahal
Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil are located at the entrance of the Chowk area, in the center of Bhopal. It is easily reached by all modes of transport inside the city.
