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both immense fortifications with unexpected beauty and charm of a palace. The name "amber" derives from the goddess Amba Mata (Mother Earth) worshipped by local tribes at the site prior to the building of the fort complex. MAP OF THE COMPLEX (Ref)  2. Jaleb Chowk: Originally the fort's parade ground, its central garden area is surrounded on three sides by guard rooms. 3. Singh Pol (Lion's Gate) and the Shila Devi Temple: The gate is covered with frescoes and has guard rooms on three sides. The Temple located under a cupola is dedicated to Kali. 4. Diwan-i-Am: Opposite the Shila Devi Temple is the "Hall of Public Audiences." Here the raja would conduct the business of court. 5. Jas/Jai Mandir and Sheesh Mahal Palaces used for private audiences: Walls and ceilings are inlaid with intricate mirror work and coloured glass. A marble screen overlooks the Maota Lake and brings in cool breezes. 6. Ganesh Pol: Gateway with frescos, mosaics and lattice screen -- entry into three private palaces built around a Mughul-style garden. From behind the privacy of these screens the royal ladies could watch the ceremonial functions in the Diwan-I-Am courtyard below. 7. Sukh Mandir: Entry to three private residences built around the Aram Bagh or Pleasure Gardens. 8. Baradari: The fourth major courtyard area in the Amber Fort was reserved for the wives and concubines of the rajas (the Zenana or "women's quarters") 9. Zenana: The oldest section of the fort was converted into the Zenana or "women's quarters" to house wives and concubines. |
Entering Lion's Gate and the
Shila Devi Temple :: The Hall of Public Audiences
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JAIPUR'S AMBER FORT AND PALACE :: Pt. II 
Page 1 :: Outtakes |
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