Credit: Mudit Gupta
Overview of Raja Rani Mahal
Raja Rani Mahal is a prominent heritage site to visit if you are visiting Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh. Its also known as Raja Mahal, which is a seven-story strucutre and connected to another palace known as Rani Mahal throught a secret passage.
Unique Architecture and History of Raja Rani Mahal
Raja Rani Mahal comprises two distinct buildings, each built in a different style, perhaps in the 15th century. It was once believed that Chanderi once had 260 palaces, but only 43 have managed to survive until today. Raja Mahal is designed as a seven-story structure with elaborate carving. Constructed from gray and white sandstone, the palace features large courtyards, open pavilions, and elegant stairways.
The smaller palace, known as the Rani Mahal, is quite different in architecture and style from the Raja Mahal. These two palaces together are known as the Rajmahal, and they were likely constructed in different periods. The Rani Mahal appears to be older than the Raja Mahal, which was probably built during the Khilji period in the 15th century CE. The upper portions of both the Raja and Rani Mahal, which are styled in Bundela , indicate that these structures were repaired and built in the 17th century when the Bundelas came to control the region.
The other structure that is situated nearby is the Rani Mahal, which is quite different in architecture and style from the Raja Mahal. It was constructed over different time periods and earlier than the Raja Mahal,According to the inscriptions found within the complex, it was built during the Khilji period in the 15th century CE. Bundleas style is reflected in the structure of the Raja and Rani mahals who ruled the region in the 17th century; they repaired and built upon the structures.
Restoration and Revitalization
The Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage has undertaken extensive restoration efforts for the Raja Rani Mahal. NGO Chanderiyaan set up a training center to teach youngsters the art of block printing, weaving, and tailoring. To bring back the traditional skills and opportunities to the local community that once became extinct.
How to Reach Raja Rani Mahal
Address: P47Q+RHX, near Musa Bawdi, Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh 473446
By Car: You can reach Chanderi by car via NH 52, which connects it to major cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Gwalior. The journey takes around 4-5 hours from Bhopal and Gwalior and 7-8 hours from Indore.
By Train: Chanderi railway station is on the Delhi-Chennai main line, making it easily accessible by train. Several express trains connect Chanderi to major cities like Delhi, Agra, Gwalior, Jhansi, and Bhopal.
By Air: The nearest airport to Chanderi is the Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, which is around 218 km away. You can take a taxi or hire a car from the airport to reach Chanderi. Another option is the Gwalior Airport, which is about 250 km away.