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Diwan-i-Am: Hall of Public Audience

Experience Mughal grandeur at Agra Fort's Diwan-i-Am, where emperors once addressed the public in this stunning hall of public audience.

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The Diwan-i-Am, or Hall of Public Audience, in Agra Fort is where Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and his successors addressed the general public and heard their grievances. Constructed between 1631 and 1640, this grand hall reflects a blend of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles.

A brief summary to Diwan-I-Am

  • 52HC+JX2, Unnamed Road, Agra, Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Uttar Pradesh, 282003, IN
  • +9118002008335

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Hire a local guide to delve deeper into the history and significance of the Diwan-i-Am.
  • Dress modestly, especially if you plan to visit the religious areas within the fort.
  • Allow ample time to explore the rest of Agra Fort, including other palaces, mosques and gardens.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the entrance of Agra Fort (Amar Singh Gate), follow the main path leading towards the center of the complex. The Diwan-i-Am is located near the Machchhi Bhawan, a short walk from most other major structures within the fort. The path is generally well-maintained and easy to navigate.

  • Auto-Rickshaw/Taxi

    If arriving by auto-rickshaw or taxi, instruct the driver to take you to the entrance of Agra Fort (Amar Singh Gate). From there, you will need to walk to the Diwan-i-Am. Typical auto-rickshaw fares from Agra Cantt Railway Station to Agra Fort range from ₹80-₹120, but be sure to negotiate the price beforehand. Taxis are also available, with fares typically starting around ₹200.

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Discover more about Diwan-I-Am

Located within the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Diwan-i-Am stands as a testament to the Mughal Empire's grandeur and administrative prowess. Constructed by Shah Jahan between 1631 and 1640, it served as the Hall of Public Audience, where the emperor would listen to the concerns and petitions of his subjects. The hall's architecture is a captivating blend of red sandstone and white shell plaster, designed to mimic the appearance of white marble. Measuring 201' by 67', the hall features a flat roof supported by rows of decorated columns, creating three distinct aisles. The façade boasts an arcade with nine bold arches, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the era. At the center of the eastern wall stands a marble canopy, beneath which the emperor's throne was placed. This elevated chamber, known as the 'Takht-i-Murassa' (Throne Room), is adorned with precious stones and connects to the royal apartments. Perforated marble screens allowed the royal ladies to observe the proceedings without being seen. Below the throne, a marble dais served as the seat for the Wazir, who presented petitions to the emperor. Historically, the hall was adorned with silver balustrades for the nobility, delineating their ranks, and the columns and spandrels were embellished with gold. Although much of this ornamentation was lost during British rule, restoration efforts have revived some of its past glory. Today, the Diwan-i-Am remains a major attraction within Agra Fort, offering visitors a glimpse into the Mughal era's administrative and cultural practices.

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