The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, stands proudly in the heart of Old Delhi as one of India’s most iconic monuments. A symbol of power, freedom, and architectural brilliance, this UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts millions of visitors every year. While most people know the Red Fort as the place from where India’s Prime Minister addresses the nation on Independence Day, there is much more to this historic structure than meets the eye. Let’s explore five amazing facts about the Red Fort that reveal why it continues to fascinate historians, architects, and travelers alike.
1. The Red Fort Was Once White, Not Red
One of the most surprising facts about the Red Fort is that it was originally white, not red. The fort was constructed primarily using white limestone during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Over time, the limestone began to chip and fade due to weather conditions.
When the British took control of Delhi in the 19th century, they decided to paint the fort red to preserve its structure and give it a uniform appearance. The red sandstone color eventually became its defining feature, giving rise to the name Red Fort. Despite the color change, the fort’s grandeur and elegance remain unmatched.
2. It Took Nearly 10 Years and Thousands of Artisans to Build
The construction of the Red Fort began in 1638 and was completed in 1648, taking almost a decade to finish. Emperor Shah Jahan spared no expense in creating a palace-fort that reflected the peak of Mughal art and culture.
Thousands of skilled artisans, stonecutters, painters, and craftsmen from across the Mughal Empire worked on the fort. Precious stones, intricate marble carvings, floral designs, and calligraphy were used extensively in its decoration. At the time of its completion, the Red Fort was considered one of the most luxurious royal residences in the world.
3. The Red Fort Was a City Within a City
The Red Fort was not just a fort—it was a self-sufficient royal city. Inside its massive walls were palaces, audience halls, mosques, gardens, water channels, and living quarters for the royal family and staff.
Key structures such as the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) and Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) played important roles in governance. The famous inscription in the Diwan-i-Khas reads, “If there is a paradise on earth, it is this, it is this, it is this.”
A complex water system called the Nahr-i-Bihisht (Stream of Paradise) flowed through the fort, keeping the palace cool and adding to its beauty. This level of urban planning was centuries ahead of its time.
4. It Has Witnessed the Rise and Fall of Empires
Few monuments in the world have witnessed as much history as the Red Fort. It served as the main residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years, from Shah Jahan to Bahadur Shah Zafar.
The fort saw invasions by Persian ruler Nadir Shah, attacks by the Marathas, and eventually occupation by the British after the Revolt of 1857. During British rule, many precious structures inside the fort were destroyed for military use.
Despite these upheavals, the Red Fort survived and emerged as a powerful symbol of India’s struggle for independence, making it more than just an architectural marvel—it is a witness to history itself.
5. The Red Fort Is a Living Symbol of Indian Independence
Perhaps the most powerful fact about the Red Fort is its modern significance. On 15 August 1947, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, unfurled the national flag from the Red Fort, marking the end of British colonial rule.
Since then, the Prime Minister of India addresses the nation from the fort every Independence Day. This tradition has transformed the Red Fort from a Mughal palace into a national symbol of freedom, democracy, and unity.
Today, the fort hosts cultural events, museums, and a spectacular sound-and-light show that narrates India’s rich past, ensuring that history remains alive for future generations.
Conclusion
The Red Fort is far more than a historic monument made of red sandstone. From its surprising white origins and advanced urban planning to its role in shaping India’s destiny, every corner of the fort tells a story. These five amazing facts highlight why the Red Fort continues to stand as a timeless symbol of architectural excellence, resilience, and national pride.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a traveler, or someone curious about India’s heritage, the Red Fort offers an unforgettable journey into the past—one that continues to inspire the present and future.
Meleyrs 
Suman Gupta