Fatehpur Sikri – Meaning of Fatehpur Sikri
The name Fatehpur Sikri is derived from Arabic origin, Fateh means ‘victory’ and Sikri means ‘to give thanks to God’. Let us tell you, the old name of the city used to be Fatehabad, which was given by Emperor Akbar, this name means ‘City of Victory’. On the second birthday of Jahangir, he started the construction of a royal palace, which included the names of Fatehabad and Sikripuri. In this way Fatehabad was changed to Fatehpur Sikri.
The world’s highest gateway
Buland Darwaza is the hallmark of Fatehpur Sikri architecture, which is 54 meters tall. This door is the highest gateway in the world. Some Quranic verses have also been engraved on the walls. Inside you will find some unique patterns and craftsmanship in the interior, which make this structure very special in the eyes of the beholder.
(Photo Credits: wikimedia commons)
With the blessings of Salim Chishti, this was the birth of Jahangir.
Since Emperor Akbar Salim was a true devotee of Chishti, you will find his tomb as the most important building in the entire palace complex. Akbar believed that it was with the blessings of Salim Chishti that his son Jahangir was born. The structure was built around 1580, combining both Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. Many women go here to tie a thread near the tomb to wish for a child.
(Photo Credits: TOI.com)
UNESCO World Heritage Site –
The royal palace complex of Fatehpur Sikri has now been included as a UNESCO heritage site. Here you can see a good list of historical temples and monuments. It also includes the Jama Masjid, one of the largest and most famous mosques in India. Thousands of tourists gather daily at this place.
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Drums were used
Near the entrance of the complex is the Drum House named Naubat Khana, where the arrival of the guests was announced. The building is named after the Naubat Drum, which belonged to the Mughal culture. It was played during special ceremonies. These drums were played inside the building, which was designed with intricate carvings of Mughal art.
(Photo Credits: wikimedia commons)